What is your current role and experience in teaching?

I am currently Secondary Programme Lead at GORSE SCITT. I began teaching in 2005 at what was Morley High School; the school subsequently became The Morley Academy, which was the founding school for The GORSE Academies Trust. Over the years I have had many roles including Lead Teacher of Maths, Advanced Skills Teacher (maths), Director of Maths, SCITT Professional Mentor.

Why are you passionate about your subject?

Mathematics, a universal language that enables understanding of the world, is an integral part of the curriculum. Beyond the study of numbers, shapes and patterns, it also provides important tools for work in fields such as engineering, physics, architecture, medicine and business. It nurtures the development of a logical and methodical mindset, as well helping to inculcate focus and the ability to solve all manner of problems. Attainment in the subject is also the key to opening new doors to further study and employment.

What impact does strong subject knowledge have? 

Maths teachers must have a current working knowledge of the national curriculum for key stages two, three and four. To teach in a secondary school you must understand the building blocks that are taught within key stage two and how they extend and develop into key stage three and four. Additionally, all maths teachers need to be promoting teaching for understanding rather than leading with cul-de-sac trick methods that do not extend or support students with linking ideas across the curriculum.