What is your role at Blackheath High School? 

I am Head of the Physics Department, which means I oversee how Physics is taught across the Senior School. This year, I teach classes from Year 8 to Year 13. A key part of my role is ensuring that Year 11 and Year 13 students are as well prepared as possible for their public exams. 

How long have you been teaching for? 

I have been teaching for almost 22 years. I started my career in Athens, Greece, and later moved to London, where I continued teaching in secondary schools in southeast London. 

Where did you study and what did you study? 

I studied Physics at the University of Athens, widely regarded as Greece’s leading university. After moving to London, I completed a postgraduate degree in education (PGCE) at Goldsmiths. 

How did you know that teaching was the profession for you? 

It began early on when I was tutoring my younger siblings and helping them with their schoolwork. I was also inspired by some exceptional teachers I had at school - their lessons stood out and showed me the difference great teaching can make. 

Why Blackheath High School? What sets the school apart from other schools? 

I previously taught for many years at girls-only grammar school, Newstead Wood and served as Head of Year 11. I’m very familiar with environments where girls have high aspirations. At the same time, I wanted to move into the independent sector and take on a more academic role. When I joined Blackheath High, I quickly realised what makes it unique: the school embraces individuality, supports every student’s personality, and helps them thrive. It’s a forward-thinking, open-minded, and liberal environment - students here are truly fortunate to be part of such an inspiring community. 

What inspires you/gets you out of bed in the morning? 

Supporting my students and helping them learn. Seeing that spark in their eyes when they achieve something new is what drives me. Over the years, I’ve celebrated countless successes - students excelling in GCSEs and A-levels and going on to top universities. But for me, the everyday wins matter most: those small breakthroughs that show real learning is happening. 

What kind of leader are you? 

I lead by example while anticipating challenges and planning ahead. I believe in maintaining open, consistent communication with colleagues, parents and students to resolve issues quickly and overcome difficulties. A great team is more than the sum of its parts, and everyone has an important role to play. 

Who are your role models? 

I admire physicists throughout history - from the Ancient Greeks to Sir Isaac Newton. As Newton said, ‘We are standing on the shoulders of giants.’ One of the most influential figures for me is Carl Sagan, the American astronomer. Beyond his research and contributions to space exploration, he made Physics accessible through his books and TV series. His famous reflection on Earth as a ‘pale blue dot’ in the vast cosmos still resonates deeply with me. 

Of course, we mustn't forget the legendary Marie Curie and her inspiring life story, which I plan to present in the new year, as part of the newly established Physics Society. In terms of current, renowned female physicists, Helen Czerski, British physicist and oceanographer (currently Professor of Environment and Society at University College London) has written some very inspiring books (“Storm in a Teacup”, “Handmade”) and is great role model for female physicists. She studied Natural Sciences at Cambridge, earning an MA, MSc, and PhD in experimental explosives physics! I had the opportunity to attend her lectures twice, the last one during the recent Physics in Action trip where I took our Sixth Formers this term. 

What are you most passionate about in life? 

Unlocking the mysteries of Physics for my students is one of my greatest passions. I love helping them understand concepts and apply their knowledge to new problems, showing how Physics connects to real life - from the tiniest subatomic particles to the largest galaxies. My favourite classroom moments are when students think ahead, ask insightful questions, or experiment to test what they’ve just learned. As a strong advocate of constructivist education, those moments show that true learning is taking place. 

Favourite book and why? 

I’ll choose a classic: The Odyssey by Homer. It’s the original adventure story and proves that intelligence, skill, effort, and determination will always lead you to your goal. 

Favourite activities? 

I love travelling - it opens your mind, lets you experience different cultures, and changes your perspective. One of my most memorable trips was to Mexico: cycling along the motorway and through the jungle under the hot sun, then swimming in the sea next to Mayan pyramids. Truly unforgettable.