Tracey Thomas
Headteacher at The British School of Brasilia
1. How many years have you worked for BSF?
12 years - 6 years in Beijing, 5 years in Sao Paulo and this is my first year in Brasilia.
2. Why did you choose to work for BSF?
They presented me with fantastic professional development opportunities.
3. What positions have you held at the schools?
In Beijing I started out as a Teaching Assistant, before becoming a whole school PE Teacher, broadening my experience to become a Key Stage 3 Drama Teacher and then finally a Year 2 Teacher. In Sao Paulo I was a Reception Teacher before moving into an EYFS Coordinator position. Continuous professional development opportunities led to leadership roles, culminating as Head of Campus. I am now thoroughly enjoying being the Headteacher at the newest BSF school, The British School of Brasilia.
4. What do you love about The British School of Brasilia?
It has a true sense of being a place of opportunity for all. I love that we give equal value to personal development as well as academic success. There's a great sense of community and inclusion.
5. What do you love about the area?
Green spaces, wildlife and a culture built around being outside. The lake is really quite beautiful.
6. What do you like most about teaching internationally?
The diversity of environments, the brilliant people I get to meet and the amazing cuisine!
7. What strengths and skills have helped you get to where you are today?
Being reflective, determined and willing to learn from others.
8. Which of your childhood teachers stood out and why?
My Secondary Drama Teacher was hugely influential to me. As a child I lacked confidence and belief in what I was capable of and she encouraged me to take risks. She showed me how to listen to constructive feedback and how to work as part of a team.
9. What are your most treasured teaching resources?
Books are my most treasured resource; from informative non-fiction to beautiful picture books. They provide knowledge and pleasure for all and a means of connecting with others through imagination, language and ideas.
10. What is the most memorable lesson you have taught?
The most memorable lessons for me are when students no longer rely upon the teacher. Pupils may not have all the answers, skills or knowledge to complete a task, but they have the confidence to work collaboratively with their peers, access resources or use their own initiatives to support themselves. The sense of accomplishment you see is incredible.
11. What do you like to do outside of work? Do you have any hobbies?
Spending as much time outdoors as possible (i'm just getting into gardening), walking the dogs, dancing and reading.
1. How many years have you worked for BSF?
12 years - 6 years in Beijing, 5 years in Sao Paulo and this is my first year in Brasilia.
2. Why did you choose to work for BSF?
They presented me with fantastic professional development opportunities.
3. What positions have you held at the schools?
In Beijing I started out as a Teaching Assistant, before becoming a whole school PE Teacher, broadening my experience to become a Key Stage 3 Drama Teacher and then finally a Year 2 Teacher. In Sao Paulo I was a Reception Teacher before moving into an EYFS Coordinator position. Continuous professional development opportunities led to leadership roles, culminating as Head of Campus. I am now thoroughly enjoying being the Headteacher at the newest BSF school, The British School of Brasilia.
4. What do you love about The British School of Brasilia?
It has a true sense of being a place of opportunity for all. I love that we give equal value to personal development as well as academic success. There's a great sense of community and inclusion.
5. What do you love about the area?
Green spaces, wildlife and a culture built around being outside. The lake is really quite beautiful.
6. What do you like most about teaching internationally?
The diversity of environments, the brilliant people I get to meet and the amazing cuisine!
7. What strengths and skills have helped you get to where you are today?
Being reflective, determined and willing to learn from others.
8. Which of your childhood teachers stood out and why?
My Secondary Drama Teacher was hugely influential to me. As a child I lacked confidence and belief in what I was capable of and she encouraged me to take risks. She showed me how to listen to constructive feedback and how to work as part of a team.
9. What are your most treasured teaching resources?
Books are my most treasured resource; from informative non-fiction to beautiful picture books. They provide knowledge and pleasure for all and a means of connecting with others through imagination, language and ideas.
10. What is the most memorable lesson you have taught?
The most memorable lessons for me are when students no longer rely upon the teacher. Pupils may not have all the answers, skills or knowledge to complete a task, but they have the confidence to work collaboratively with their peers, access resources or use their own initiatives to support themselves. The sense of accomplishment you see is incredible.
11. What do you like to do outside of work? Do you have any hobbies?
Spending as much time outdoors as possible (i'm just getting into gardening), walking the dogs, dancing and reading.
Back to previous