Kate Wicks

Life before Stowe

Prior to Joining Stowe in January 2022, I most recently worked locally at Akeley Wood School as Head of Department for Business & Economics and latterly as Head of Year 11. I have a degree in Business & Psychology and a PGCE in Business & Economics and having been a teacher all my adult life, I have taught hundreds of exam groups spanning a 25-year career. I have over seven years of senior examining experience across GCSE, A-Level and BTEC Business courses. 

What do you enjoy most about your subject?

I have had experience of teaching other subjects (Psychology and Economics at KS5 and Computer Science further down the school) but my first passion is Business Studies, predominantly because it is so reflective of real life. It makes me happy that pupils of all abilities can get involved and have something to contribute from their experiences. 

What do you enjoy most about Stowe?

I love the pupils here who hail from a wide variety of backgrounds and who all bring such fantastic examples. The staff body are also an amazing bunch who are so friendly and welcoming. Finally, I will never underestimate the beautiful facilities and grounds – they still take my breath away every day and I will never get used to them! 

What is your favourite Lesson?

I enjoy teaching the pupils the more mathematical aspects of Business (I love the “ah... ok!” moment where they finally get it! Plus I really like how they understand Business Maths when prior to joining they think they can’t do numbers). My favourite lesson, however, is one about ‘branding’. This lesson is called “Does branding matter?” where we taste test and observe to see if we can tell the difference between the brands and the impact of branding on businesses (for example the ability to charge higher prices). 

What do others say about you?

I was recently described as “effervescent” by a parent, and I was very pleased! I am often described by others as open, warm and friendly. I tend to relate well to the pupils and am happiest when I am surrounded by the children. 

Other hats

As well as teaching Business I work as the Assistant House Parent in Cheshire House and love working with all the girls in the house. I also support the Golf at Stowe and am a keen swimmer. I am mum to Isabella and Charlie and married to David, who is Head of Computer Science at a local school. 

Passions

When I am not following my son around supporting him at Rugby and Football matches, I love to watch sport (especially Rugby). I also love all animals and spend lots of time with my 12 mini lop rabbits, 20 hens and black Labrador – Jura.