He came to London as a fresh faced teaching graduate and 3 years later, unfortunately still fresh faced, he’s heading back to Australia. He loves a frisbee, loves to run, and most importantly, has developed his own version of ‘blue steel’ which you can see in his photos below. Whether you’ve known him as Justin, Hoops, Hooper, or Hoopy McDoopy, we can guarantee that this Penrith lad will have called you ‘Darlin’ at least eight times within the first hour you met him. He’s had an awesome time Teaching In London and coming in to work as part of the Vibe office. He’s been Team Leader of the Blue Team, but made sure no Team ever feels ‘Blue’ with his lively nature and quick wit. Before he heads back to Teach in Sydney, check out his reflections on London journey!
Tell us about your story with Vibe
I moved to London two days after graduating from Uni (shout out to ACU in Sydney!). I originally signed up with a couple of agencies, but quickly noticed the difference in working with Vibe! After starting out doing daily supply to find my feet, they found me a dream PE teaching job in a primary school (check out some interview tips here). After a year I made the move into the office and didn’t looked back! I got to know the schools and Teachers well and started to lead the team after a year.
What have you loved most about working with Vibe?
I love the office culture. The Vibers always spend lots of time in the office (as I’m sure you’ve noticed when I’ve call you at 7.00am and then again at 6.30pm) but time flies when you’re having fun. Being surrounded by good people and chatting to even better people on the phone has made it feel like we weren’t really working at all. I’m not surprised that we finished in the Top 5 Great Places To Work in the UK this year! Read more about that here.
What’s been the best thing about living in London?
The accessibility to Europe! From London you can get a train and end up in France, Scotland or Wales. Getting the tube to Heathrow and jumping on a plane for an overseas weekend trip is something that’s been amazing for me as an Aussie.
What’s your favourite area in London? Why?
Putney has a soft spot in my heart. It was where I taught for a year. In summer down by the river there are some cracking pubs which are full of fond memories for me. I’ve had some amazing Sunday sessions with some great people that I’ve met in London which has made the place all the more special.
What’s your favourite pub in London?
The Rook’s Nest A.K.A Flynn’s. With it being only a three minute walk away from work it has provided plenty of after-work stress relief over the years. It has a cracking beer garden with a wonderful water feature and has £6 burgers on a Thursday! I encourage everyone to keep the place alive and buzzing when I’m back in Australia!
What’s been your best travel experience?
Doing a sailing trip in Turkey was awesome! It was seven days of cruising on pristine waters, swimming with turtles and enjoying ciders on the deck of a yacht! Would highly recommend!
What are your top tips for teachers in London?
Travel! London in such a fun place and its easy to get caught up in the big smoke. The city is cool, but make sure you book trips and see some amazing places while you are here. Also, a helpful hint, ‘pants’ in England are your underwear! If a kid is wearing his shorts a bit low, don’t tell him to pull up his pants! I know from experience that this doesn’t end well…
What/who has most inspired you these last 3 years?
The people I work with inspire me every day, and will continue to when I’m back home. I have to give a shout out to all those who worked with me from the Blue, Black and Green teams! We’ve sat within a few meters of each other, five days a week, for my time here and constantly pushed each other to do more and be better.
What quote would you encourage other London Teachers to embrace?
Hakuna Matata (it means no worries).
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