Gregory Ross Scullion

Current Employer/Organisation Name

TradeWinds Academy

What have you been doing since leaving Exeter, and what are you doing now?

I studied at Exeter for both my undergraduate (French and Spanish) and my PGCE (Upper Primary with French). I began teaching at a church school in rural Somerset where I became head of the school council and the staff governor. My next school was a one-form entry community primary. Here I was P.E. subject lead, geography subject lead and the head of Eco-Schools. In 2017, I was approached to help establish a new international school (TradeWinds Academy) on the south coast of Kenya as Senior Teacher. In 2018, I was asked to take on the role of Head Teacher. It is a small school but there are over 20 different nationalities. There have been many challenges during this time but it is a fantastic place to work and my job is very rewarding.

Why did you choose this career? And what do you enjoy most about your work?

I have always wanted to be a teacher. I love being able to help someone else achieve something. That could be a student learning something new, or a teacher developing their skills. I have the chance to see everyone improve every day.

Please tell us if you were a member of any societies, groups or sports clubs?

Ultimate Frisbee.

What did you enjoy most about your programme and what was the biggest highlight?

The highlight was definitely the year abroad. I spent mine in Leon which was a cultural eye-opener. I travelled a lot around Europe during that time and it definitely encouraged me to expand my horizons.

What did you enjoy most about studying here?

I met some amazing people and I see most of them whenever I am back in the UK. My halls of residence was very open and inclusive. The friends that I made were from all walks of life.

Why did you choose to study at Exeter?

The university campus is stunning and I loved the sense of belonging that it offered.

What skills and experiences have been most useful for your career?

Communication and prioritisation. Responding quickly to others and acting promptly on the important things before they build up. You save a lot of time and create a good impression with everyone.

What advice would you give to a current student who wishes to pursue your career?

Get experience in the field as soon as possible. Talk to everyone. Read everything. Think very carefully about everything that you do and everything that you put on social media. You need to be the best representation of yourself all of the time.

What are your plans for the future?

Return to the UK at some point. I am considering a move into adult education, possibly Initial Teacher Training.