Meet Dr Philip Saker - our new MYP Science and Mathematics Teacher

Welcome to WIS! What would you like us to know about you? I am a Brit who has had the benefit of experiencing different cultures both at home and abroad. This has influenced the person I have become. My successes have been dependent on the support of many different people. As an international teacher, I have had the good fortune to experience many things and meet some interesting and wonderful people.

Could you tell us a little about your philosophy of education? I am committed to helping students of all abilities to strive to fulfil their potential. We should not ignore the opportunities we have to learn throughout our lives, gaining new skills and knowledge. Education provides people with choices and the ability to improve their lives. In my teaching, I try to make students aware of the links between science and other subjects, as well as the impact science and mathematics has on their life.

People often like to know their teacher’s academic background and professional experiences. What and where have you studied? What and where have you worked? I have a Bsc(Hons) in Biology with Chemistry from Goldsmiths’ College, London. Prior to teaching I worked in laboratories. This included over nine years in academic research. Initially this was in a department at Oxford University. I was offered the opportunity to undertake a PhD, and after completion moved on to become a Post Doc within a department at the Imperial College School of Medicine, London. I undertook my PGCE in Biology at Brunel University via their distance learning course. This enabled me to juggle my work at Imperial College with my studies to become a teacher. I began teaching Science in South London. I then moved to Cornwall as a Chemistry specialist, where I taught in two schools for a total of 12 years. In 2014, we decided to teach internationally. I have now taught abroad for 8 years, in Kathmandu, Rio de Janeiro and Abidjan. What do you do when you aren't teaching? I enjoy travel and experiencing different cultures. I have an interest in history and current affairs. I read news sources daily and frequently read articles on historical people and events. I regularly read scientific articles and listen to science programmes on radio. I also enjoy reading novels, but usually this only occurs during vacations when I have more ‘free-time’. Relaxation usually involves watching movies, listening to radio plays and various types of music. I enjoy walking, and football. Lately, the football is restricted to being a fan, rather than a player. I also like watching athletics, particularly during the Olympics and World Championships. Back at home, I often carry out DIY. I relish the problem solving that is frequently required (although this can be frustrating) and developing new practical skills.

Why did you choose WIS? I wanted to stay in Africa. WIS gives me the opportunity to do so. In our research we have learned that Windhoek and Namibia have many things to offer that I enjoy. Is there anything else you'd like us to know about you? I am excited to be coming to WIS and become part of the school’s community, and experiencing the delights Namibia has to offer.