Since 2015, Jonathan has taught English in international schools, bringing expertise across the IB Middle Years and Diploma Programmes. Holding a MA in English Studies, a PGCE in Secondary English, and additional qualifications in IB and AP programmes, he combines a strong academic foundation with a passion for helping students find their voice. Yet his path to the classroom was anything but conventional.

One of Jonathan's first jobs after high school was as a writing tutor at a community college, supporting students returning to education. Although he found the work deeply rewarding, he initially pursued a career in finance, spending five years as a financial analyst. Eventually, he realised he wanted a career centred on people rather than numbers. Remembering the impact he had on those students inspired him to return to university and become a teacher.

Giving Students a Voice

One moment has stayed with Jonathan throughout his teaching career. While advising a student-led art and literature magazine, he watched one of his student editors read her poetry to an audience of classmates, parents, and teachers. Afterwards, the student's mother approached him with tears in her eyes, explaining she had never known her daughter wrote poetry and thanking him for giving her a platform to share her voice.

Experiences like this have reinforced Jonathan's belief that students produce their best work when it has purpose and a genuine audience. He strives to create learning experiences that encourage students to think deeply, communicate authentically, and recognise the value of their own ideas.

A Lifelong Love of Reading

Jonathan's love of reading began in elementary school during a reading challenge that inspired a lifelong habit. Drawn to science fiction and fantasy for their imaginative worlds and fresh perspectives, he still carries his Kindle almost everywhere he goes and is rarely far from his next book. He believes literature has the power to broaden perspectives, challenge assumptions, and help students better understand themselves and the world around them.

Inspired by Great Thinkers

Jonathan's teaching philosophy has been shaped by both educational thinkers and influential writers. Peter Stockwell's work deepened his understanding of how language shapes meaning and the reader's experience, while Julie Stern's work on conceptual transfer strengthened his belief in teaching through big ideas that help students apply their learning in new and unfamiliar contexts. He also draws inspiration from James Baldwin and Nina Simone, whose clarity, courage, and authenticity continue to influence the way he approaches literature, communication, and learning.

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LOWER SCHOOL