​EDUCATION

 

Ophthalmic Dispensing Diploma, FBDO (2020–2023)

 

After being offered to train as a DO by Leightons in 2020, I studied ophthalmic dispensing with the ABDO College alongside working in practice.  I found every element of study thoroughly interesting and always enjoyed being able to relate by learning back to my own practise.  The study block releases at the ABDO College, which is based in the beautiful Godmersham House near Canterbury, were always enjoyable – the learning setting makes it a unique and truly wonderful educational environment, with very supportive lecturers.  I graduated with my Diploma as a qualified DO in 2023.

 

PGCE with QTS (2018–2019)

 

I trained as a primary teacher with the Plymouth Teaching School Alliance (PTSA), gaining my Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) in July 2019.  I gained invaluable insight into the challenging yet essential role of a primary teacher by being in the classroom for the duration of the school year.  During this time, I also completed a Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE) at the University of St Mark & St John.  After graduating, I decided to move away from teaching and pursue a different career path, but still have a busy academic mind with a passion for education and am confident that I will be able to put my pedagogical skills to good use for the rest of my life.

 

BA (Hons) Primary Education (2015–2018)

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I studied a BA (Hons) degree in Primary Education at the University of St Mark & St John (Plymouth Marjon), graduating with a First Class with Honours.  This degree explored a diverse range of educational matters, including the sociology of education; teaching and learning; children’s cognitive and learning development; performativity and assessment; and educational management and leadership.

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My undergraduate dissertation was titled: “Autism Spectrum Condition (ASC) and the Physical School Environment: An Overview of the Literature”.  My research explored the potential impacts of the physical school environment for those with Autism, from noise, lighting and classroom design, to the layout and architecture of the school site.

 

During my final undergraduate year at Plymouth Marjon, I was nominated for the ‘Inspiring Student Award for Leadership, 2018’ by my course leader:

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“Toby has been student rep on SSLC since he joined Marjon. He has always shown good leadership skills but in year 2 and 3 he has developed as a very rounded leader who is respected by staff and students. He is measured, sensible and forthright but has understood that leadership is often about softer skills and has developed a mature and values based leadership style. Other students look to him for support and he guides and inspires others. He informally mediates programme issues and truly fulfils the role of SSLC rep. clearly presenting issues and giving rounded analysis of situations. He will be sorely missed next year.”

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My nomination certificate was presented to me at the Marjon Inspiring Student Awards Ceremony on the 30th May 2018 by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Rob Warner.

 

School (2009–2015)

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I attended Poole Grammar School (PGS) for both main school secondary and VI Form.  I gained A-Levels in English Language, Geography and Religious Studies (Religious Ethics and Buddhism), with an AS-Level in Music and an EPQ, as well as 11 GCSEs A*-C.  While in VI form, I was a Subject Ambassador for both the Music and Geography departments.  Throughout my time at PGS, I was a member of the ‘voices’ group and the string ensemble, playing both violin and viola.​​

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