In this week's 'A Conversation With...' we had a chat with Theology and Philosophy teacher, Miss Nicola Jones who joined Shiplake in September.
Miss Jones became a T&P teacher because she really enjoys working with young people and believes that it is 'vital for everyone to understand the background of others so that we can all treat those around us with kindness and respect'.
In her spare time, Miss Jones spends a lot of time (out of lockdown) performing in musical theatre productions, playing a range of musical instruments and making her own clothes.
How long have you been at Shiplake and what is your role. Where were you previously?
This is my first year at Shiplake, I joined in September as a Theology and Philosophy teacher. Previously, I was at Tudor Hall School (an all girls' boarding near Banbury, Oxfordshire) for seven years teaching T&P, as well as being a housemistress and head of year.
What is the best thing about Shiplake?
There are many wonderful things about Shiplake, no one can complain about the beautiful location and, as I teach in Skipwith, I have the most incredible views down to the river everyday. But, without a doubt, the community feel and the support from all corners of the school, staff and students alike, is amazing, giving it the feel of a real family.
What inspired you to become a Theology and Philosophy teacher?
I honestly find working with teenagers to be extremely rewarding. I started my career in the pastoral side of education and have always liked getting students to understand themselves and see them grow in confidence to achieve things that they never dreamed of. I have always had an interest in religion, where it comes from and what being religious or having a faith influences people to do in their lives.
Why do you think it is such an important subject to study?
With the current social and political climate throughout the world, it is clear that religion plays a large part in the actions that people take, be that in a positive or negative way. I believe that it is vital for everyone to understand the background of others so that we can all treat those around us with kindness and respect. By considering what religious belief might be underpinning the decisions people make, I think we can be more sympathetic and diplomatic in our dealings with others. My particular academic interest in Theology is about how religious believers interact within the political sphere, trying to influence policy and society, I try to pass this outward looking attitude onto my students.
We've heard your other passion is drama and the theatre, can you tell us a bit more about your background in this?
When I finished studying Theology at university, I actually went to drama school (Royal Central School of Speech and Drama) and studied for a Masters in Music Theatre, and then worked as an actor for a short time specialising in musicals and actor-musician productions. Even though the industry was not for me, I still have a huge passion for music and drama and performance of many different types. I keep my interest going (when not in lockdown!) by performing with theatre companies based in Oxford a few times a year.
How are you finding teaching remotely and how have you had to adapt lessons for your pupils?
As all of my students know, I love debate and discussion in my classroom, which can be more difficult to achieve remotely. Whilst teaching online, I try to keep fostering this attitude of open questions and ideas by putting students into Meets in smaller groups and changing the nature of questioning to allow for time to think and share ideas, just as we would in the classroom.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Normally, lots of theatre rehearsals and music. Whilst we are not allowed to do that, I am spending time playing the cello, ukulele and piano (not all at the same time!), as well as singing. I also relax by sewing my own clothes from patterns I buy and adapt, and I have just started to learn to knit (although this is not going as well as I had hoped...).
What's the first thing you will do when we come out of lockdown (new restrictions permitting)?
A couple of things: I cannot wait to get back to rehearsals. I was supposed to perform in My Fair Lady at the New Theatre in Oxford last May. We have postponed this a few times and have everything crossed that we will now be able to perform later in the year. I am also looking forward to seeing my friends and family around the country, many of whom I have not seen in over six months, perhaps in the pub!
What does the future hold for Miss Jones?
Right now, I think that we all struggle to look towards the future, so I think I will try to live in the present.
