Ealing Independent College is pleased to welcome our new Vice Principal for September 2020, Laura Bellerby. We took the opportunity to sit down with Laura ahead of her starting with us, here is what she had to say: 

Laura, can you give us a brief background and explain where you are joining us from?

I joined the teaching profession in 2002, and have extensive experience in both the state and independent sectors. My most recent post before joining Ealing Independent College was as Assistant Head (Sixth Form) in an independent day school, where I led the pastoral and academic provision for the Sixth Form. I also have a background in school governance, and I have very much enjoyed working with other schools in this capacity.  

Tell us, what motivated you to become an educator, and what continues to attract you to the profession?

As the first in my family to go to university, I know that education can transform lives. Education opens doors and enriches lives, bringing a person experiences and choices that they would never have had otherwise. My strongest motivation is being able to hopefully inspire young people to not only aim high but to develop the mindsets needed to reach these aims. I believe that everyone has the right to an excellent education, and it is a real privilege to be in a position where I can help make that happen. I really value the life-changing opportunities offered by EIC through their scholarship scheme, where the opportunity to study here is open to everyone, regardless of financial means.  

Looking back on your time as a teacher, what are your fondest memories? What are some of the things you are proudest of?

I always feel very proud on results days. It is such a privilege to share in the delight of the students as they gain the results which will be their passport on to the next phase of their lives. I also have a very specific memory. I used to live and work in the North of England and I was stopped in the street by a young man I didn’t recognise. He gave his name, and I remembered him as a wonderfully well-mannered and hard-working boy. I was very proud when he told me that I had made him believe that he could go to university, where he now was. It is moments like this which make teaching the most wonderful job.

What do you hope to achieve in your first year of joining Ealing College?

EIC is a fabulous place, and the results speak for themselves. I am very excited to be joining! As Vice Principal, I will be looking carefully at the pastoral provision in the College to make it as strong as possible, including provision for students with Special Educational Needs. I will be focusing on hopefully making strong pastoral provision even stronger, as well as supporting Allan generally in the leadership of the College.