David Duncalfe

Life before Teesside High School

I gained my degree in industrial and transport design from Teesside University where I then went on to work designing shop interiors and layouts for multiple national companies before deciding to become a teacher in my mid twenties. I gained my PGCE through Sunderland University and became a Head of Department in my first year of teaching. I have worked across various schools across Teesside before coming to Teesside High.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I enjoy teaching DT as it is about teaching skills and creativity and watching those skills develop from novice to competent to mastery is incredibly rewarding. Watching students develop over years until they are confident and independent in their creativity and making skills is incredibly rewarding.

What do you enjoy most about Teesside High School?

Teesside High School allows teachers and students to become the best versions of themselves, a lot of the boundaries and obstacles that are faced in other schools are removed, which allows both to really reach their potential with excellent teaching practices and students that are safe to show their confidence and skills in a truly friendly and nurturing environment.

What is your favourite time of the year?

My favourite time of the year is September. For me it is about the potential in the new faces and classes and the new challenges that are going to be brought to the students. The opportunity to build on skills and develop the learning in a new way each year is what makes teaching so addictive, it can always be bigger and better than the year before.

What do others say about you?

I have been told I am very calm and unfazed by most things, also meticulous and driven to make things the best they can be at all times.