Having worked at in several schools during my career to date, I have not worked in a school with a more convivial atmosphere amongst both staff and students alike. Whilst there is, of course, a strong academic focus, the school ensures that students gain well-rounded experience by offering a vast range of extra-curricular activities that I have not seen at any other school. This helps to create a very positive atmosphere between students and staff. In addition, there are also plenty of opportunities for staff to participate in a range of trips, both in England and abroad, which is a real highlight of working at KEFW.

I have been fortunate enough to have worked at a number of outstanding schools throughout my career. However, teaching at Five Ways has allowed me to teach a far greater variety of mathematical modules across a range of key stages. Combining this with the students’ willingness and desire to learn, I have developed my skillset and pedagogy to challenge very able students to maximise their potential.

I have also found Five Ways to have a very supportive and cohesive staff body which, coupled with the extensive CPD opportunities on offer, has enabled me to thrive as a teacher. A key part of the school’s ethos is to allow students to develop as well-rounded individuals. Charity days, inter-house competitions and international trips and links all encourage students to develop qualities such as teamwork, resilience, cultural awareness and tolerance of others. It is for these reasons that I feel Five Ways is a great school to work in.

As a young teacher, the prospect of joining King Edward VI Five Ways was an exciting but intimidating one because of its very able students and an ethos of excellence at all levels. Yet I was made to feel immediately welcome, both within my department and by all the staff.

My three years here have been consistently stimulating and enjoyable. Our students are exceptional, meaning that we as teachers must rise to meet this challenge. In turn, we are rewarded with pupils who are thirsty to learn, who enjoy being stretched, and who can produce the most incredible pieces of work and articulate the most complex and surprising of ideas with confidence.

I have been given ample opportunity to lead, both within my department and in the wider school environment, and have been supported in my professional development at all times.

One of the most rewarding aspects of a career at Five Ways is the opportunity to be involved in various extra-curricular opportunities, including foreign and local visits and competitions; staff are actively encouraged and supported in their bid to enrich the education of our students.

Five Ways is a warm, dynamic place to be and it has made me the successful, driven and most importantly happy teacher I am today.