All teachers have contributed in multiple ways to their student's lives, by helping them find their calling in life.
Nicola Hamer is the Deputy Head of Secondary School at The English College Dubai, with over 21 years of teaching experience.
Having moved to the UAE from England when she was 12 years old, Nicola found her purpose in teaching and has since been helping students out for over 15 years.
With a business degree and a post-graduate certification in education (PGCE), Nicola shares her life as a teacher, where she coaches the school netball teams and has run many Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, which help young people go out of their comfort zone to build new skills.
What inspired you to start teaching?
I decided to get into teaching because I have such fond memories of my school days. I can remember all of the teachers that had a positive impact on my life and because of that, I wanted to be someone who could make a difference.
How did you decide to teach your current subject?
I teach Business and Economics, I love the fact that the subject prepares students for their future. No matter what their chosen career path they will have an understanding of how the business world works, as well as be able to complete their own budgets and financial records. It truly teaches life skills!
Why do you love teaching?
No two days are the same in teaching! Every student is unique and that's what makes this such a fun and exciting job! Those lightbulb moments, where you can see something really click for a student are so incredibly rewarding. Sometimes you can really see the impact you have had and there is nothing more rewarding.
Do you remember your favourite teacher from school?
I had a biology teacher called Mr Monteith, he was incredible. So kind and patient but more importantly made the lessons fun. He had such high expectations for every one of us that it made us all want to do our best for him.
How do you make everyday classes more interesting?
I try to make my lessons apply to the real world so students can see the value in what they are learning. I try and add humour and personality to my lessons too so that the students want to do well, just like I did for Mr Monteith.
What is a unique part of the school?
The English College truly has a community feel. There is a real sense of being a part of a team here and we pride ourselves on our strong relationships.
What would you do if you were not a teacher?
I think it would be really cool to be a lawyer. To fight for what is right in a court of law. I bet it is amazing to win a case tried in front of a jury!
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Nicola Hamer
Deputy Head of Secondary School
The English College Dubai