John Gilligan
Subject: Geography then PGCE
Graduated: 1991 then 1992
Place of work: Hampton College, Peterborough
Position: Head of School
What made you choose to study geography at the University?
I loved geography at school, was inspired by an amazing teacher and wanted to study it at degree level. I attended an open day and loved the campus and the feel of the School of Geography.
I also bumped into a guy I thought to be quite weird who ended up being my neighbour in Lenton Hall, house mate for two more years and is still amongst my best friends!
What skills did you acquire during this time?
Confidence, analytical skills, the ability to see the big picture and focus in on the detail.
These were the days before the internet (we were taught BASIC programming!) so I learnt how to become an expert in the use of microfiche.
What are your fondest memories from your time at the school?
I made some excellent friends who broadened my horizons in so many ways and am still in touch with many of them.
Where are you working now and what does the role involve?
I am Head of a secondary school in Peterborough having been teaching geography (I still do) since I qualified in 1992. Each day is different and the pace is fast. Teaching is a challenging and exhausting vocation but it has brought so many wonderful experiences and enabled me to meet and work with the most inspirational people.
Being a Head brings pressure and high accountability in a challenging context but the ability to influence the future of many young people is a privilege.
What advice would you give to someone considering following a similar career path?
Find the right school for you and teach the subject you love and it will be the best decision you have made!