A Conversation With.. Mr Mark Hindley
We chat with another new addition to the English Department in today's 'A Conversation With...' - Mr Mark Hindley! Mr Hindley joined us at the start of the 2024-2025 academic year and as well as teaching English, coaches our U14A rugby team.
What is your role and how long have you been working at Shiplake?
I joined the College in September 2024 and I’m in the English Department. As well as teaching English, I coach the U14A boys’ rugby team this term.
What were you doing before joining us at the College?
Before joining Shiplake, I was working with a business colleague to set up an educational facility in Abingdon for children who were struggling to access education. Before that, I taught at Lord Wandsworth College (so long ago that Jonny Wilkinson was in Year 12!) as well as at Radley and at Abingdon School.
You're almost through your first term here, how have you found it?
I’ve loved it. I had missed being in the classroom and the pupils here have been very welcoming, as have the staff. It is a very friendly, warm school, and it’s great to be somewhere where everyone knows each other and seems to look out for one another.
What are you looking forward to doing and experiencing at Shiplake during the academic year?
I’ve loved coaching rugby this term, so I’m looking forward to getting involved in other extracurricular areas in the coming terms. I also teach some of the rowers (my wife has also coxed GB Juniors and is a member at Henley) so I’m looking forward to the regatta season and being able to support Shiplake!
What does a day in the life involve for you at Shiplake?
When friends ask me if I enjoy work, I describe my job as talking about books and coaching sport, so essentially that is my day! And of course - being Shiplake - my dog Truffle comes to work with me, so I often take her for a walk, unless she is dognapped by one of the DofE cohort!
What inspired you to pursue a career in teaching and education?
I did a law degree when I left school and was lucky enough to land a 12-week internship at Arthur Andersen in the summer of my second year. It was great fun being wined and dined on The Strand, but there seemed to be a lot of tired, dissatisfied people in their 30s and 40s who felt trapped by their salaries. I decided to teach instead, knowing that I could always go back to the city if I wanted to, but I have never felt that urge.
What do you do outside of work?
My wife would say not enough! I love reading - I am an English teacher after all - and I love getting out into the fresh air and getting into my podcasts while I walk the dog. I also cook and find that a very relaxing 'flow' activity. Finally, I'm a sports fanatic, so avidly watch any sport that is being broadcast, particularly rugby and cricket.
What does the future hold for Mr Hindley?
Good question and I don't know. There have been a lot of personal challenges over the past two years, so I am just enjoying living in the moment, with a job I enjoy, in a supportive environment.