I chose Biology and Chemistry for my Leaving Cert, as I always had an interest in science and nature. This interest came from home and from my father in particular, who had and still has similar interests. After school I continued with the science, and after two years in research I decided that teaching of science appealed to me. I still have an interest in developments in science and particularly in watching nature. This helps me to maintain an interest in my job too.

My father has been the main influence in terms of interest in science and nature. Outside of that, the good teachers I had in second and third level were an inspiration to teach.

After studying science, I did a one-year Higher Diploma in Education in UCC. This involved studying the theory of educational practice as well as having practical work experience.

I was very fortunate to remain almost immediately in the school that I did my teacher training in.

Certainly no two days are the same. You can never predict what might happen at any time. The challenges are those of sticking to a prescribed timetable. But the rewards are the gratitude of parents and students and actually seeing the pupils learn in a fun environment.

Managing my time during the school day is the biggest challenge. For example, timing practical work to be finished before the pupils have to be off to their next class is always a challenge!

Both myself and my partner Lisa are teachers. This affords us a very interesting lifestyle, travelling for many summers to parts of the world that combine my interest in nature with her interest in language and culture. While we will never be millionaires, the salary combined with the time off are reward enough for the job we do. We have also been able to take one year of a career break so far. This was a fabulous opportunity to further our broad education.