Grosvenor In View Magazine 2025

9

Ms A Philpot Permanent Teacher of Religious Studies and Social Sciences

Are you involved in any extra-curricular activities at GGS? Music has been something I’ve been involved with my whole life and I love how it brings people together. One of the highlights of my first year at Grosvenor was working with the choir to prepare for the 80th Anniversary Concert. The talent we have at Grosvenor is outstanding, the quality of performances at the concert was amazing and I have never been so proud to belong to a school as when the choir sang ‘Gaelic Blessing’ in the Ulster Hall. I am in awe of Miss Foster’s The first thing to strike me about the students was the friendliness with which I was welcomed by my classes as a new member of staff. The staff immediately impressed me with how much they give of themselves to create such a rich school environment. Everyone can be guilty of taking their school days for granted, but Grosvenor is truly a great school, and having worked in a variety of schools before, I can safely say that Grosvenor is the best yet! Can you tell us a few interesting, unusual or surprising facts about yourself? When I was at University, studying Theology, I had to learn ancient Greek and Hebrew, but can barely remember a word of it now. When I didn’t have my head in the Septuagint, I was Secretary and then President of the Queen’s Debating Society, ‘The Literific’. As part of my role at the weekly debates I had to wear an academic robe and use an antique gavel. In sixth form I completed Grade 8 in jazz saxophone and went on to be in a Jazz Band. We toured Italy playing in some amazing venues. ability to pull off such a beautiful show. What are your first impressions of GGS?

Can you tell us a little bit about your background? E.g. where did you study? Where have you worked before? I studied Theology and Sociology at Queen’s University, Belfast before moving to England to begin my PGCE at University College, London. My first teaching job was in Oxford in 2016. I then moved to teach RS in an Independent Catholic Day School in Warwickshire. I then moved south to take up the post of Head of Year and Head of RS at a different school before I moved back to Northern Ireland in January 2023 when I was offered a Head of Department role in an Integrated school in Co Down. What made you decide to become a teacher? I remember wanting to be a teacher when I was in Primary school. My grandfather had an old chalkboard in his den and my sister and I used to play ‘school’ when we were little. I fell in love with Religious Studies when I was studying at Wallace High School during which time I was lucky to have been taught by so many amazing teachers. I was incredibly shy at school but my teachers supported me and pushed me to find more confidence, particularly through class debates, Spending time with my partner and family (including our 5 family dogs) on the North Coast is where I am happiest. My partner and I travel whenever we can with Crete being our favourite destination. I enjoy working with a local American Football Team, the Belfast Trojans, as their Youth Development Officer. To relax, I love to cook and make things for friends and family. I love reading fiction books and upcycling furniture or decorating my house. drama, choir or Model United Nations. What are your interests outside school?

GROSVENOR IN VIEW > 2024/25