James Strange

Learning science, whether it be atomic structure, flow of electricity, or cell biology, should be fascinating and capture the imagination. Where possible I use props, analogies, and exciting demonstrations to really highlight key concepts and help retain knowledge.

Following careers as a military musician, microbiologist and secondary school teacher, I was inspired to establish "The Dragonfly Centre: Education and Wellness Hub", providing tuition for students in need of extra support or seeking to build on their academic experiences, with additional therapeutic support from our expert team. Our mission is to help families, both young people and parents, develop a mindful approach to learning and support families through many of the challenges and anxieties synonymous with formal education.

I use constant assessment for learning, including mini whiteboards, questioning, and “pop" quizzes; an important way of quickly addressing misconception i.e., respiration is not breathing. This also enables me to employ adaptive "on-the-spot" teaching strategies to ensure each student, as an individual, is provided with the opportunity to progress and learn through differentiated outcomes.

My commitment to quality, diversity, and excellence in education is at the forefront of my practice, and feel the responsibility really is on the teacher to develop students to be effective and happy learners, and to achieve their fullest potential.

I achieved a BSc Hons Biological Science Degree in 2013 from the University of Edinburgh which was followed by extensive experience as a microbiologist for the Scottish Government until 2019. I subsequently studied a Post Graduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and have both Enhanced DBS and PVG certification. I also have years’ experience working as a science teacher in two secondary schools teaching Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.