Teacher of History and Politics. Director of Key Stage Three.
Born and grew up in West London. But have moved to Bromley for obvious reasons!
What and where you have studied?
I studied History at Royal Holloway, University of London. I lived in the main building for the first year, and if you ever see it, it looks like Hogwarts! I did my teacher training at Canterbury Christ Church University, and did my placements at a comprehensive school in Dover, and an all-girls grammar school in Canterbury itself. I also used to work part-time with the NHS, as well as working behind a bar at Twickenham rugby ground.
What you do in the Department?
I am the departmental co-ordinator for Assessment for Learning and Gifted and Talented. I ensure our G&T students are pushed to reach their potential, as well as ensuring the department is numero uno for AfL.
Historical interests
I first got into History by looking at the American West, an enthusiasm I still have. It is an ambition of mine to go and visit the American West (whats left of it) and to experience all its wonders! I also have an interest in the Civil Wars of England and the USA. I also enjoy Russian History, having done my 10,000 word university dissertation on Bolshevik pedagogical thought (answers on a postcard....)
Other interests/activities
Am a big football and rugby fan, and currently hold the Level One certificate to coach football from the FA. As my students will tell you, I support Tottenham Hotspur and rugby-wise, London Irish. I also enjoy stand-up comedy and like to watch comedians as often as I can.
The best things about Ravensbourne
Working with students and colleagues who are passionate about History. It makes my job so much easier to be surrounded by so many students who enjoy the subject, who are inquisitive and eager to learn.
Personal Details
Born and grew up in Australia in a place that is as different as you could possibly imagine to Bromley! I have two sons and one daughter. My youngesst son seems to have become an expert on both world wars. He can come in and do the lesson on war time alliances and I can have a little nap in the corner of the class room. I have realised that I am becoming an artefact and I already am an anachronism!
What and where you have studied?
I studied History and Law at The University of New South Wales in Sydney and later obtained my Graduate Diploma in Teaching at The University of Queensland. When my friends at University had part time jobs washing dishes in Chinese restaurants or working at KFC, I worked as an Usher at the Sydney Opera House. I was greatly hated!
What you do in the Department?
I am the Head of Department and it is my job to make sure that we have enough pencils. I hope that I also help all students from years 7 to 13 love History as much as I do.
Historical interests
I am a social Historian. It is not for me some stuffy Monarch or political leader. I much prefer studying medieval diets or that Tudor gentlement urinated in their boots. I am also a big fan of working peoples rebellions. I love the Tolpuddle Martyrs. I have been on a number of pilgrimages to Tolpuddle!
Other interests/activities
I am a fanatically interested in cricket and am looking forward to the Ashes 'coming home' to their rightful country in January 2011. I am also the best singer and dancer in the History department by far, although I don't dance as much as I used to since my devastating leg injury caused by upstaging all year 7s at their disco earlier this year. Yet, just like Tony Manero, I will recover and I WILL dance again! Watch out!
The best things about Ravensbourne
Working with colleagues who are dedicated to delivering a subject that they feel passionate about, and teaching students who are pleasant, good humoured and eager to do well.
Adam Mills