Mandy McFarlane – Meet the Teacher

As a new Nursery teacher, what is your vision for the 2020-2021 Academic Year and what would you like to achieve?

As a parent who had just had a child complete their nursery year, I know first hand how important the children’s first experience of school is. Therefore, my vision is to make it a year to remember with lots of fun and engaging activities that the children will go home talking about. I enjoy creating and embedding a desire to learn and a stimulating, safe environment in which the children feel confident to take risks and get hands on with new experiences. The messier the better!

What were your first impressions when you initially arrived at and started working at Bangkok Prep?

I arrived at Bangkok Prep with my family last year as my husband started as the Director of Sport. I was immediately blown away by the facilities and ethos within the Early Years and knew we had made the right decision choosing this school for our family. I was lucky enough to have enjoyed some supply work within Bangkok Prep before I was appointed the role of Nursery Teacher, so I knew working as part of the Early Years team was going to be very exciting. The whole team and school have been extremely welcoming and helpful!

What was the reason you initially decided to start teaching?

To this day, I fondly remember my primary school teacher from when I was in Year 2 and the positive impact she had had on my school journey. I wanted to become that teacher who helped a child learn to read or overcome a challenge they were having in Mathematics. To create those lessons and positive memories about school that would stick with them and make them smile in later life.

What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

As a mum to a 5 year old and a 9 month old baby, I love to spend my time with my family. We have been enjoying exploring Thailand and Bangkok searching out stunning Waterfalls, beaches and parks. When able, we enjoy travelling overseas and spent 4 months touring Europe in our motorhome before heading to Bangkok. We look forward to adding to these adventures soon! When I’m home I enjoy curling up with a good book to relax or trying to bake. I enjoy Yoga and I’m always looking for fun ways to try and keep fit.

Please can you give me a summary of your qualifications and previous work experience?

I completed my BA in Primary Education specialising in Early Childhood Studies in Roehampton University, London.  I went on to spend a few years working in London teaching in a Nursery class and Year 4 before moving to teach in Abu Dhabi, UAE.  While in Abu Dhabi, I started teaching within the Early Years, setting up a brand new school before moving into Year 1 where I was the Year group leader for a large team of six classes.   I then took a career break from teaching after having my daughter but was quickly recruited by a children’s Music and Movement class to run classes and children parties. My class will tell you I have a song for every topic!