Helen Walton

Life before Teesside High School

Following my Chemistry degree from the University of Warwick, I trained as a teacher and moved to work in the North East. I have worked in two sixth form colleges, one 11-18 state school and one 11-18 independent school in the Teesside area, for a total of 18 years before joining Teesside High School; 11 of those years as a Head of Chemistry.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

I love Chemistry because it is a very logical subject, dealing in facts and theories which (most of the time) leave little room for different interpretations. Teaching Chemistry also gives me the opportunity to perform some fun demonstrations with flashes, bangs and fire!

What do you enjoy most about Teesside High School?

The thing that sets this school apart from any other I have worked in is the sense of community. Staff and students alike support each other, and are proud of each other’s achievements. With our intake having a wider range of academic background than some other independent schools, I find our students develop to be highly considerate and inclusive in their outlook.

What is your favourite time of the year?

I love the spring, when the days start to get longer and I can see snowdrops and other flowers appearing.

What do others say about you?

Most of the comments I get from students are praise for my organisation. I am very thorough and my lessons or planned so that students are able to build on prior knowledge effectively. My A Level students appreciate my subject knowledge and pace of the lessons, ensuring that work is understood before moving on, but without wasting time.