Staff testimonials

"Incredible training"

I joined Westminster Academy straight from university where I obtained a first class degree in BSc Biotechnology.  Initially for the first academic year I worked as an LSA in the SEN department. I worked with numerous SEN students with a variety of different needs in various different lessons. This experience has proven to be invaluable as it taught me to apply classroom routines, differentiation and develop positive relationships with my students; all the time in different classroom settings. In September 2018 I moved to teaching in the Science Department and trained as a science teacher. I have found this experience to be very rewarding. I realised, more than ever, that teaching goes beyond the classroom. WA provides numerous opportunities to students of all abilities from a range of different backgrounds (e.g Reach Out Lab, and Primary Science, enrichment days and extra curricular clubs), and encourages students to develop scientific minds using the latest technology and equipment.

WA offers incredible training, not only INSET days but also weekly CPD training which continually fine-tunes my teaching practice.  I have also found that forming positive and nurturing relationships is imperative for students to build confidence and resilience.

I was very fortunate to have trained at WA because from the outset I was very well supported by my mentors, be it in the SEN or Science department and consequently I had the benefit of learning from very experienced teachers. Having spent the majority of my life in a different country, adapting to a different education system could not have gone any smoother and it is thanks to the help of an amazing staff body!

- D Pereira, Teacher of Science

"A vibrant, multicultural, inclusive community"

I joined WA in September 2023; by the time you read this, you will realise I have not been at WA for very long, yet it has been filled with so many positive experiences that I feel compelled to share with you. WA is a vibrant, multicultural, inclusive community where everyone has an amazing story to share; here is mine!

During my interview, there was a real sense of ease. I had the privilege of speaking to several members of staff, including pupils, and it felt as if I had known them for ages.  After six months, I can confidently say this community is truly remarkable – not in the overused sense of the word that many organisations claim, but in the most genuine sense where everyone contributes to creating a positive and inclusive environment that fosters learning and personal growth for all.

I have been a teacher for eight years now, and it has been an incredible journey. The unpredictability of this profession is genuinely astounding – there is never a dull moment. Following my PGCE training, I have gained several qualifications and accreditations, which have provided me with valuable experience and skills. I am an accredited Lead Practitioner from the SSAT, hold an NPQ in Leading Behaviour and Culture, a Coaching qualification from the LSTSH, and an Aspiring Senior Leader qualification from the Harrow Collegiate Alliance. The CPD in WA is quite unique. Coaches and mentors take the time to develop colleagues in areas they choose, aligning individual preferences with the school's overall aims and values – and it works seamlessly.

I now work as the Director of Key Stage 4, focusing on raising standards by working alongside colleagues in both senior and middle leadership to develop and implement intervention plans. These plans help improve our students' readiness for exams, ensuring they achieve the best possible outcomes. I am looking forward to learning more and continuing to grow at WA.

M Farah, Director of Key Stage 4