Mr Thomas Elwell

Life before Stowe

I read Geography at Exeter University and decided to continue on in the same environment to complete my PGCE. After spending a year travelling I began my teaching career at Bede’s School in East Sussex, eventually becoming an Assistant Houseparent and Head of rugby alongside teaching Geography. I left Bede’s after seven years to move to Stowe in January 2015.  

What do you enjoy most about your subject?

Geography is everywhere; it is all-encompassing and has so many facets that it is impossible to be an expert in each and every area. There is, therefore, always something new to learn, and I love that I can be teaching about poverty and development one minute, and have to switch to the formation of clouds the next.

What do you enjoy most about Stowe?

The grounds are obviously amazing, and I’m still getting to know all the different areas. The ethos of the School, pushing pupils to achieve their best in each and every situation is one I believe in.

What is your favourite Lesson?

Although I do enjoy discussion concerning Geopolitics with the Upper Sixth, the best Geography lessons are outside, in and amongst the environment, experiencing theory in real life.

What do others say about you?

A calm, but passionate Geography geek.

Other hats

I coach Colts and Yearlings rugby and cricket in the summer.

Passions

I’d generally prefer to be outside - whether it’s climbing mountains and exploring or coaching and watching sport there’s no such thing as bad weather!