Orlagh Nelson

Before Sackville

After graduating from University I worked as a supply teacher in a West London. I spent time leading departments in both a prep school and a girls comprehensive where I gained valuable skills in leadership and organisation. I then took a sabbatical from teaching for a 18 months to travel taking in North America, Australasia, and SE Asia, experiencing very varied cultures giving me some invaluable life experience.  On returning to the UK I took a position of responsibility in a foundation school in Maidstone which was challenging though rewarding. In this role I gained extensive knowledge as a Key Stage Manager (similar to a Head of Year), I also headed up the Duke of Edinburgh course, and I took the position of School Sports Co-Ordinator where I worked closely with local primary schools enhancing and developing their Physical Education curriculum.

Why I enjoy my subject

I love teaching both PE and Maths. I have been a keen sportswoman all my life having played hockey at National League level for 17 years. I have always been passionate about teaching PE, I like to think this rubs off on the pupil’s, and I never tire of seeing their development and the satisfaction they get from this, through fun learning and challenging activities.

I see learning as a tool to all life experiences and through Maths, I have used my practical teaching ability to make Maths lessons enlightening and active.

Why I enjoy Sackville?

Sackville is a small unique school where it is a privilege to work so closely with not only colleagues but with small groups of pupil’s and even individuals.  Sackville is a family where teachers not only teach they inspire!

My favourite Lesson

I thoroughly enjoy teaching the aesthetic side of Phyiscal Education. Gymnastics and Trampolining are areas of the curriculum where I have previously spent much time co-ordinating routines and sequences.

Other roles

Since joining Sackville I have organised several trips, however organising the Sackville Summer Ball has been my biggest success.

Passions

As well as my passion for my job, I am first and foremost a mum to two little children. Working part time at Sackville has allowed me to be a mum and enjoy the excitement of growing children, whilst involving my family in the social activities Sackville presents. I still play hockey to a high level which I am very passionate about, and I continue to have a love of travelling, heading off on holidays at every opportunity.