Meet Gemma: Championing Big Questions and Ballroom Moves

Gemma joined the Bancroft’s community last term as a teacher in Philosophy, Religion and Ethics, bringing with her several years of teaching experience, and a commitment to help pupils think critically.

We sat down together to hear about how Gemma plays a role in helping pupils understand the diversity of beliefs that surround them, as well as hearing her thoughts on her experiences so far.

What drew you to teaching Philosophy, Religion and Ethics?

Gemma recalled how one of her own teachers had really sparked her curiosity in the subject, making her think critically. She also highlighted the value of extended writing and discussion which she enjoyed during her studies. “You develop your vocabulary, reasoning, and communication skills. You learn to express ideas clearly, and understanding different perspectives.”

“The subject at GCSE and A Level is largely philosophical. It’s about looking at the bigger picture and challenging accepted norms. Pupils develop analytical skills and learn to construct arguments.”

And what excites you most about teaching PRE at Bancroft’s?

Touching on Bancroft’s being a multicultural school, Gemma enjoys seeing pupils engage with big ideas, as well as share their own experiences. She likes to make her lessons a place where pupils really get to learn from one another.

“Pupils learn about their friends and how they celebrate certain traditions. It helps bring the curriculum to life in a way that can’t be replicated everywhere.”

“Watching pupils discuss ethical dilemmas and learn from each other is incredibly rewarding.”

What has your experience been like joining the Bancroft’s community?

She described her start as overwhelmingly positive, sharing haring how warmly colleagues across the school welcomed her.

With four highly experienced teachers who have been part of the school for many years and who bring expertise in exam marking and curriculum development, she described the department as “a really strong team.”

Being part of West House has also helped her feel quickly rooted within the school community. “West is best,” she laughed.

What co-curricular activities are you involved in?

Gemma’s love of dance goes back decades. “Since I was four years old I’ve been enjoying ballroom and Latin dancing. I even competed in my late teens and early twenties.”

Running the Ballroom & Latin Dance Club every Friday lunchtime at Bancroft’s has allowed her to reconnect with her childhood passion.

“It’s the highlight of my week! We learn the basic steps, nothing too complex and the pupils absolutely love it. With Strictly Come Dancing on TV, they get so excited.”

Gemma has also thrown herself into the outdoor opportunities at Bancroft’s. Within her first month, she joined a Duke of Edinburgh expedition, something she remembers fondly. Supporting pupils through their challenges early on helped her quickly feel part of the school community.

Every Wednesday, Gemma also assists with senior games, where she helps run the school’s climbing sessions, an activity she had never tried before joining the school.

“It’s brilliant seeing pupils with no fear, climbing higher each week and building their strength and confidence. I’d never gone climbing before, and now I’m doing pink climbs! The opportunities here are just excellent.”

Why do you think PRE is such an important subject for young people today?

Touching on the role of extended writing, she states that the subject develops “vocabulary, clarity, and reasoning skills” that will be “invaluable for exams and their future studies”.

“It’s amazing teaching my subject here. I immediately felt supported.”

For her, the intellectual challenge of the subject is matched by the richness of personal and cultural learning: “Studying religion also helps students understand the cultures and values of other groups of people, which is especially important in a multi-faith society like ours, living so close to London.”

How do you hope to make an impact in your first year at Bancroft’s?

“I want pupils to leave my classroom not only with knowledge of different beliefs but with the confidence to express their ideas and respect for diverse perspectives.”

Thank you Gemma for taking the time to speak with us and share your experiences so far.