Meet our experts
Dane Howard-Stone
As a SEND specialist teacher at New City College, my role is to teach a variety of subjects tailored to learners' needs, emphasizing creativity, independence, and confidence. SEND education is crucial for empowering individuals with learning differences to live independently and gain employment skills. The best part of teaching is the creative problem-solving process and the supportive environment at the college. Despite initial challenges, I've achieved significant milestones, including helping learners express emotions and achieve employment success. My teaching philosophy is inspired by Sir Ken Robinson's advocacy for creativity in education.
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Eleni Alexandrou
Eleni teaches on the Teacher Education Programme, having previously taught Catering and Hospitality. She emphasizes the importance of quality teaching, aiming to bridge theory with practical classroom experiences. Inspired by supportive mentors, she advocates for soft skills as essential for lifelong learning. Working at New City College, she prioritizes collaboration and continual professional development. Her advice to early career teachers stresses time management and effective communication. Despite challenges, her journey from overcoming personal obstacles to pursuing education serves as her greatest achievement, fueled by the inspiration of supportive mentors who taught her the value of active listening and nurturing learning environments.
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Mafalda Giudice
As an ESOL teacher at New City College for the past decade, my primary focus is on equipping 16–18-year-olds with English language proficiency and cultural awareness to succeed academically and socially. Teaching offers the joy of witnessing students' growth and fostering a supportive, familial atmosphere within a multicultural community. My journey into teaching began with a passion for aiding newcomers in integrating into British society, leading me to pursue teaching qualifications. Amidst the challenges of the pandemic, adapting to remote teaching posed significant hurdles, yet it spurred my evolution as an educator, emphasizing the importance of personalized learning and connection. Throughout, my colleagues' dedication and collaborative spirit have been my greatest inspiration, shaping my approach to teaching and fostering a culture of sharing and support.
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