What inspired you to become an English teacher?
I attended a full primary school in Nelson, where we always looked up to the big kids and the senior teachers. My Year 7 and 8 teacher was my ultimate inspiration. Her connection with students, her high yet firm and fair expectations, and her teaching style made a lasting impact. She truly shaped who I wanted to become.
What do you love most about teaching English to children?
Taking literacy lessons in our Junior and Prep School allows me to see students grow in their reading and writing across the school, firsthand. Teaching literacy is incredibly rewarding. Our curriculum provides structure, differentiation, and creativity, while smaller class sizes mean we can truly understand each student's strengths and support their future goals. Whether a student is realising for the first time that they can read to learn or crafting a piece to win a persuasive writing competition, teaching English is immensely fulfilling.
Is there a book, author, or story that has had a lasting influence on you? Why?
Wonder by R.J. Palacio. This novel explores interconnected themes of empathy, identity, acceptance, and kindness. This is perfectly highlighted by Mr. Browne's precept: "When given the choice between being right or being kind, choose kind."
What is your philosophy when it comes to teaching reading and writing?
Using a Structured Literacy approach builds the critical foundational tools students need to decode text and express their voice with confidence. We combine explicit, systematic instruction in phonics, handwriting, and vocabulary with a language-rich environment where oral language and diverse literature foster deep comprehension. We strive to set our learners up for success. By holding high expectations for every learner and connecting reading and writing across the curriculum, I believe we empower our children to become curious, critical thinkers and passionate, lifelong communicators.
Can you tell us a little about the Creative Writing Enrichment Programme and what students experience?
Our writing enrichment programme is constantly evolving. Students who demonstrate writing ability and promise are invited to participate in this course, which aims to nurture a deep love for reading and writing. Students are provided with guidance, inspiration, and practical tools to craft original, creative pieces straight from their imagination.
At Cathedral Grammar, literacy is about far more than learning to read and write. It is about equipping children with the confidence to think critically, communicate effectively and express their ideas with purpose. Through expert teaching, a rich literacy curriculum and opportunities such as our Creative Writing Enrichment Programme, we inspire the next generation of readers, writers and storytellers.
2024 – National Literacy Quiz Champions
2025 – National League in Libraries Creative Writing Champions
2026 – National League in Libraries Creative Writing Champions