Tell us about your educational and/or career journey since you graduated from Brunel?
After I graduated from Brunel, I spent six years developing myself as a Health and Fitness professional in different settings. I served as a Gym Manager in what was Cannons Health and Fitness (now Nuffield) at The Stoop Memorial Ground, Twickenham which I really enjoyed. Following that I spent some time in Corporate Health and Fitness working for SONA Positive Health at the Goldman Sachs Fitness Exchange. However, in 2003 (and just as I was starting an MSc in Sport Sciences) I uprooted to Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk with son number one on the way. That year, I got (back) into education and worked as a Teaching Assistant. The following year (2004), I did my teacher training and qualified in 2005. I taught PE and Maths, and specialised as a Teacher in charge of athletics. Although I coached and supported numerous school teams, aged 9-16 years, I've worked in middle and secondary schools and spent three years in Further Education. In Further Education I exclusively lectured for the BTEC First and Extended Diploma in Sports courses. I've also lectured in Higher Education modules on the Foundation Degree in Sports Coaching Programme. Nowadays, I solely teach Mathematics at KS3 and GCSE level.
What does a typical day at work involve for you?
A typical day involves offering pastoral support to my tutees. Albeit, my main role is delivering high quality Mathematics lessons to a wide range of learners from more able students, i.e. higher tier GCSE to low ability and SEND students at KS3/GCSE level.
What’s been the highlight of your career journey so far?
Last academic year (July 2021), all of my Year 11 students gained a GCSE in Mathematics, ranging from grade 4-7.
How would you say your Brunel experience has helped you to get where you are today?
I went to Brunel because I wanted to gain a degree, to prove to myself rather than anyone else that I could achieve at that level. Learning from high-calibre lecturers like Prof. Karageorghis elevated my academic acumen and emotional intelligence. In 2009, I would go on to achieve an MA in Education with distinction. My time at Brunel made me realise what I was capable of academically.
Why did you choose to study at Brunel and why would you recommend Brunel to others?
Well, it was down to Roehampton Institute or Brunel. As I stared at the two prospectuses, my eye kept flicking towards the Brunel one (no lie!) - I already had an offer from Roehampton at the time.
What is your best memory of studying here?
The Athletics Club. Warm weather training in Cyprus. A great cohort of students. No trouble, angst or tension on campus. Great lecturers (especially Prof. Karageorghis). Graduating with a 2:1.
If you could give one piece of advice to current Brunel students, what would that be?
Join a club, studying is hard work. Make lasting friendships. Treasure your time at Brunel and contribute to making the atmosphere special. Work hard, aim high! Good luck!
What would be your top tip or key advice for new graduates as they begin their career journey after leaving Brunel?
Same as before... Join a club, studying is hard work. Make lasting friendships. Treasure your time at Brunel and contribute to making the atmosphere special. Work hard, aim high! If you selected Brunel, you made a wise choice. Take responsibility for your learning and work. When it gets tough (and it always does) don't suffer in silence. Like Dumbledore said: "Help will always be there, if you ask for it!" …or something like that.
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