Amelia O’Byrne

Life before Teesside High School:

After graduating from Newcastle University with a BA in History, I worked as a Learning Support Assistant at Macmillan Academy supporting students with additional needs. This year confirmed what I already knew; that I wanted to teach! So, I left to complete my PGCE before taking up my first teaching position at St Patrick’s Catholic College where I stayed for the next three years. Following this, I moved to Nunthorpe Academy where, as well as teaching History, I was able to gain experience in a range of other Humanities subjects including RE, Geography, Psychology and English. Ready for a new challenge, I moved to Teesside High School in September 2022 to take up the role of Head of History and RE.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love the fact that, in teaching, there are no two days or no two lessons that are the same. Ever. Even when teaching a concept or skill that I’ve taught countless times before, my students never fail to surprise me with their fresh perspectives and new, intriguing ideas. Teaching keeps me on my toes and I’m never bored!

What do you others say about you?

My students often tell me that I’m very organised which I think is a polite way of telling me that I can be a bit of a neat freak (which is true!).

What is your favourite time of the academic year?

Summer! Everyone is always in a good mood when the sun is shining!

What is your favourite thing about working at THS?

The enthusiasm and positivity of the students here makes being in the classroom really enjoyable and rewarding. That said, I also love that there is such a strong emphasis on the importance of what happens outside the classroom here too. One of my favourite things about working at Teesside High School is the planning and organising of trips which bring to life what has been taught in my History and RE lessons!