Martin Otero Knott
It was Socrates who said that ‘ education is the kindling of a flame , not the filling of a vessel ’, and I know of no other teacher who has sought to embody this piece of ancient wisdom in their practice more than Martin . Since his arrival at Sevenoaks four years ago he has dedicated himself to facilitating the learning of our students through many initiatives . He also dedicated himself to Higher Education in his last year here , focusing on US universities , and went beyond the call of duty to ensure our students have the best possible opportunities . He is leaving to become Head of Academic Enrichment at King Edward ’ s , Birmingham , a role in which he will excel . Nietzsche said one repays a teacher badly if one remains nothing but a pupil . The students of Philosophy , who are now no longer Martin ’ s pupils , have learned this from him and carry the lesson with them . But the concept of repaying him , they would say , is impossible , because the debt they owe him is incalculable .
James Beck
Sophie Golding
All hail the Queen of Tarsia ! Of all the collection of lovable eccentrics who make up the Mathematics department , Sophie is perhaps both the most lovable and the most eccentric . She is kind-hearted and hard-working , and in the classroom has the very best interests of her students in mind . She supports them with meticulous planning , preparation , teaching , and assessment , as well as hand-sewn cushions and bunting . In the department she has been a loyal friend and passionate supporter of us all . She loves to laminate , is fond of a spreadsheet , and is driven to make things better . While it may initially seem surprising that she touches neither alcohol nor chocolate , on reflection there has probably never been a colleague less in need of either lowering of inhibitions or stimulation . She made the department feel like family . Without her it won ’ t be either as warm or as noisy . We wish her all the best as she applies her considerable talents to raising her young family .
Tim Jones
Ryan Glass
Ryan joined Sevenoaks a mere four years ago and yet he has been engaged in all aspects of school life , bringing his professional and caring approach to all he undertakes . With IB experience from Haileybury , Ryan quickly established himself within the Maths department taking on roles in the Middle School , mentoring new staff and devising the new Higher Level Applications course . His ability as a teacher was without question . Able to support and give those who struggled with the subject the belief they could achieve their goals , he also challenged and enriched the understanding of some of our best students . He has been a reliable and dedicated second in department and the only teacher in my time who has offered the Sets , Relations and Groups option for the old Higher Level course , allowing us to offer students the full set of option choices .
Outside of Maths he was involved in basketball , was a valued member of the SCR committee and taught TOK , where his intellectual aptitude and attention to detail drew praise . He was also a hugely popular Middle School tutor . Professional , dedicated , a teacher who connects well with the students ; Wellington College is lucky to be gaining him .
Guy Howden
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