Thomas, Year 7, who is part of the Northgate News, spoke to Mr Lea for the latest staff interview. Mr Lea returned to Northgate last term as Assistant Head for Inclusion and is also part of the Science Department. Find out what he had to say in response to Thomas’ questions below.
What subject would you teach if not Science?
It would have to be History, or Food Tech or Drama or Maths as I have studied them at various times.
What is your favourite topic to teach in Science?
Radioactivity or chemical reactions. You can make methane bubbles and hydrogen balloons. Lots of whizzes and bangs!
Have you ever had an experiment go wrong in Science?
Yes, in my early days of teaching. It was a fractional distillation experiment and the bench set on fire!
What made you want to come back to Northgate again?
It’s the best school I have ever worked at – I like the students and the teachers. I did part of my teacher training at Northgate, went away and then came back as a Science teacher for a while. I then went to another school and now I am back as Assistant Headteacher for Inclusion.
What are you most looking forward to now you are back at Northgate?
Seeing the school production, Sports Day and perhaps one day, taking part in the teacher’s football on a Friday.
Describe Northgate in 3 words
Awesome, exciting and inspiring.
What was your favourite subject at school apart from Science?
History.
What is your favourite food?
Curry, but I do like lots of different types of food eg Mexican and Asian.
Have you had any jobs apart from teaching?
LOADS! I worked as a research assistant for an MP in the Houses of Parliament, as a bar/restaurant manager, an actor, area manager, marketing manager and an entrepreneur.
Did you have a teacher at school who really inspired you?
Head of Chemistry – Mr Chambers, my English Teacher – Mr Shewan and Miss Healy – my Primary school teacher.
What hobbies do you have?
Running, football, DIY, gardening, video editing and very occasionally, playing in a band.
This or That:
Theory or practical? Practical
Spring or Summer? Spring
Book or movie? Book
Tea or Coffee? Coffee
Football or rugby? Football
Sweet or savoury? Savoury
Staycation or vacation? Staycation
Cook a meal or takeaway? Cook a meal
Reality tv or drama? Drama
Batman or Spiderman? Batman
Thank you to Mr Lea for taking the time to answer Thomas’ questions. We always look forward to finding out a bit more about our teaching staff and support staff at Northgate. We look forward to the next interview.