In our latest staff interview, Poppi, Year 11 and Poppy, Year 8, spoke to Mrs Woods, Head of Computer Science. Here’s what she had to say in response to their questions.
What do you enjoy most about teaching?
I love spending time with the students.
You used to teach English – how has it been teaching a completely different subject?
I had to completely re-train. I found the process really exciting, and for me, Computer Science is a very logical subject to move into because the overlap between English and Computer Science is where all the creativity is.
What interests you most about computing?
I love how the different components work and I am interested in the research on how computation supports literacy.
What is your favourite topic to teach in computing?
I enjoy teaching Binary maths and raising awareness of how technology impacts our lives.
Who is your favourite computer scientist and why?
There are many inspirational Computer Scientists but I am interested in the research and work of Carrie Anne Philbin. She creates lots of resources, coding books and courses for children.
Do you have any unusual hobbies?
I used to be a scuba diver instructor, but now I enjoy spending time with my family, particularly playing Lego with my grandchildren.
Have you had any jobs other than in teaching?
I have had many jobs prior to teaching, including working in a care home and in HR. I have also worked in all educational settings – from nurseries to adult education in many different roles.
What is the best thing about Northgate?
The students and staff.
How would you describe Northgate in 3 words?
Amazing, supportive and progressive.
What is an interesting fact about yourself that nobody else knows?
Something I don’t tell a lot of people is that I have always loved playing computer games. I consider myself to be a bit of a ‘gaming-geek’!
Thank you to Mrs Woods for taking the time to be interviewed and to Poppi and Poppy for asking the questions. We look forward to seeing which member of staff is next to be interviewed.