In this week's 'A Conversation With... ' we chatted to Mrs Gina Partridge, a specialist teacher in the Learning Development Department. Mrs Partridge discovered her passion for working with pupils with dyslexia and other learning difficulties at her previous school and really enjoys helping her students at Shiplake to grow and realise their full potential.
What is your role and how long have you been working at Shiplake?
I joined Shiplake in September 2021. I am a teacher in the Learning Development Department, a Lower School tutor and I help support girls' fitness. Previously I worked at Trinity Primary School.
What is the best thing about working at Shiplake?
There are so many aspects of Shiplake that make it a fantastic place to work. From day one everyone was so welcoming and supportive. All the fantastic staff and pupils make the ‘Shiplake community’ a unique workplace. I also have to mention the incredible facilities that we have on-site and of course the beautiful location.
What inspired you to become a teacher and more specifically a teacher who works with pupils with dyslexia?
I have always been interested in supporting students with their learning, so becoming a teacher was an obvious career choice. During my time at Trinity, I realised my passion for working with students with dyslexia and other learning difficulties. I trained as a specialist teacher at the Helen Arkell Centre obtaining my level 5 diploma in teaching learners with dyslexia and other learning difficulties.
What is the most rewarding thing about working in the LDev team?
Without a doubt it is being able to support the students, watching them grow in confidence and to believe in themselves. Our small class sizes enable us to get to know the students and understand what learning is really needed. Each pupil is unique and discovering their individual needs, strengths and differences is all part of the magic of teaching in the Learning Development Department.
What do you like to do in your spare time?
Mainly running around looking after my three children! However, if I have any spare time I enjoy running, cooking and seeing friends and family.
What does the future hold for Mrs Partridge?
To continue to grow and develop as a specialist teacher, I am currently looking at studying for my level 7 teaching learners with dyslexia and other learning difficulties.
