Current role: science teacher
Previous career: industrial chemist
Before becoming a teacher, David had a successful career as an industrial chemist. "I studied chemistry at university and then completed a PhD at St Andrews, after which I got a job as a process chemist. However, I always knew I wanted to move to teaching as both my parents were teachers and they loved it. Plus, I felt I wanted to give something back."
Although David's background was mainly research-based, he’s found the interaction he gets from teaching extremely rewarding. "I discovered that standing up in front of a class came fairly naturally to me. I really enjoy having to think of practical ways of bringing science to life, and seeing students’ reactions to experiments we carry out. I also enjoy the fact that every day is totally different and don’t feel what I’m doing is repetitive in any way."
My industry background has really helped me bring science to life in the classroom.
David also feels the experience he’s gained outside of teaching has also helped him in the classroom. "I find making connections between what I teach in the classroom and how it can be applied in the outside world really helps the children understand certain aspects of science. Being able to explain to a child that a process they’re learning about might also take place in their mobile phone or Playstation really brings things to life."
He also enjoys the variety involved in the role. "I like the fact that I get a certain amount of flexibility in what I teach. I prefer to be a bit more hands-on than simply using textbooks. You sometimes have to think like a child; what would they want to see? So I make my classes as varied as possible, so the students can take from it what they need. Some might be visual learners, and some might learn more when I talk things through."
When asked if he has any advice for prospective teachers David says: "Teaching is probably the best job in the world and I would certainly recommend it. The students are brilliant and I think most people would find the job really rewarding."