Karen

Dedicated and Passionate Science Educator
With 13 years of invaluable experience in the field of education, I am a seasoned and passionate science teacher committed to fostering the growth and success of students in a variety of educational settings. My journey began in the dynamic environment of inner-city secondary schools, each accommodating over 1800 pupils, where I honed my skills in creating engaging and effective learning experiences.
In the pursuit of making a positive impact on education, I transitioned to a seaside school with 680 pupils in low-income areas. This transition allowed me to tailor my teaching approach to the unique needs of a more intimate school community, demonstrating my adaptability and commitment to providing quality education across diverse settings.
My teaching philosophy goes beyond the confines of the classroom, as I am deeply passionate about empowering individuals to achieve their full potential for success and future excellence. I believe in instilling a love for science and STEM subjects, recognizing them not just as academic disciplines but as tools that unlock the doors to critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving.
My commitment extends beyond academic achievement to nurturing well-rounded, global citizens. I aspire to mold inquiring minds into future leaders and problem solvers who contribute meaningfully to society. By fostering a love for learning and encouraging curiosity, I aim to inspire a lifelong pursuit of knowledge in my students.
Throughout my career, I have embraced the challenges and triumphs of teaching in diverse environments, always with an unwavering focus on the unique needs of each student. My approach involves creating a supportive and inclusive classroom environment where students feel empowered to explore, question, and discover.
As a firm believer in the transformative power of education, my goal is to have a lasting impact on the futures of the young minds I encounter. By imparting not only knowledge but also essential life skills, I strive to equip my students to navigate the complexities of the modern world and emerge as confident, informed, and compassionate individuals.
Join me on this educational journey as we cultivate the next generation of thinkers, innovators, and global citizens. Together, we can inspire a brighter and more promising future for our students and society at large.

Willing to travel: 2 miles

Experience: UTC Oxfordshire - Science Teacher / ECT Mentor
Sept 2023 – October 2023
ECT Mentor for Year 2, guiding in high-quality research projects related to improving the learning outcomes of students in the classroom by implementing researched strategies, monitoring and assessing impact.
Regular meetings for support and feedback fortnightly on progress meeting teaching standards.
Prompt action for ECTs facing difficulties, Arranging mentoring and coaching, addressing specific challenges, eg beahviour mangement, lesson planning and structure, well being, work life balance.
Delivery and planning of Applied Science BTEC and KS5 Biology EDEXCEL curriculum.
Main teaching focus on Physics and Chemistry Edexcel at GCSE.
King Alfred’s Academy - Science Teacher
Sept 2018 – Aug 2023
Planned and implemented KS3 curriculum overhaul for 600+ pupils.
Engaged students with innovative lessons, managing classrooms of 25-32 students.
Launched an after-school enrichment dissection club.
Actively participated in CPD sessions, including ResearchED.
Utilized Teams for online teaching and assignments.
Served as a Year 7 tutor.
Plympton Academy - Head of Biology
Sept 2016 - Aug 2018
Managed curriculum design from year 7 – 13.
Ensured Quality Assurance for the Biology Department.
Mentored NQTs and facilitated science department meetings.
Responsible for exam entries and remarks.
Delivered training on new pedagogy and school initiatives.
Year 12 Form Tutor.
Plympton Academy - KS4 Coordinator
Jan 2015 – July 2016
Managed curriculum design for year 10-11.
Ensured delivery of GCSE grades for the department.
Mentored science teachers and supported the Head of Department.
Responsible for exam entries and remarks.
Year 10 Form Tutor.
Dawlish Community College - Teacher of Science
Sept 2011 – Jan 2015
Taught all sciences at key stage 3 and Biology at key stage 4.
Year 11 Form Tutor and Pedagogy Leader.
Director of Literacy, focusing on speaking and listening skills.
Chair of Co-operative Teaching and Learning Group.
Active member of the Association of Science Educators.
Organized Teach Meets.
South West Teacher Training - Trainee Teacher
Sept 2010 – July 2011
Completed placements at Paignton Community Sports College and Uffculme School.
Strong classroom management skills.
Creative and dynamic teaching.
Achieved outstanding on QTS standards.

DBS Check: Yes