Jacob, Year 7, from our Northgate News Team, decided he wanted to interview Mrs Woods, Head of Computer Science. Here’s what she had to say in response to his questions.
What do you like about teaching computer science?
I like that it is innovative and creative. It inspires students to ask questions about technology, and it links well with my own interests and how I choose to spend my life.
What is your favourite book and why?
At the moment, I am listening to the audiobook The Wise Man’s Fear by Patrick Rothfuss, the second book in the series. It’s similar in feel to The Lord of the Rings and is a fantastic piece of fantasy fiction, which is why I enjoy it. I also like books by Dan Brown and have recently finished reading The Secrets of Secrets.
If you could build any LEGO set, what would it be and why?
I would build a LEGO Technic set of an oil rig, although it doesn’t exist yet—I’d love to design it myself. I’d also like to build the large LEGO T-REX dinosaur and the motorised lighthouse.
If computer science were never a thing, what would you want to teach?
I would love to teach engineering or Archeology.
Is it true you used to be a scuba-diving instructor, and what did you like about it?
Yes. I enjoyed it because I loved the technology involved, and I remember being one of the first people to use a dive computer. What I missed most, though, was teaching and using teaching skills when I stopped diving—so that’s ultimately why I became a teacher.
You used to have a job as an English teacher. What was your favourite thing about it?
I loved teaching the English language because it was my second language. I wanted to learn it well and teach it well. I was fascinated by grammar patterns, which is also why I enjoy the logic in computing.
What would you want to change about computer science?
I would like to have time for teaching more lessons across the KS3 year groups, so I can better share my love of computing.
Quick Fire Questions:
Crisps or peanuts? Peanuts
Movie or show? Movie
Car or train? Car
Cake or scone? Scone
Sweets or chocolate? – neither as I would have sherberts
Skin on or skin off chicken? Skin on
Keyboard or voice? Voice
Thank you to Mrs Woods for taking the time to answer Jacob’s 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.