Luke Radley

Life before Stowe

After graduating with a degree in Chemistry and Sport Science from Loughborough University, I decided to pursue my passion for rugby. After successful involvement in academies and semi-professional set ups in the UK, I relocated to the Middle Eastern Kingdom of Bahrain, to sign for the Bahrain Rugby Football Club. I represented Bahrain in both 15-a-side and 7-a-side disciplines, of which playing in the Dubai 7s was a particular highlight. While in the Middle East, I also started my career in teaching. I first taught Science and Physical Education at Nadeen International School and later moved on to teach as a Chemistry specialist at the British School of Bahrain. In more recent years at the BSB, I also worked as Head of Department for Chemistry and Pastoral Head of Year 9.

What do you enjoy most about your subject?

Chemistry is often described (and correctly so) as the study of elements, compounds and mixtures, the transformations they undergo, and the energy associated with these changes. While this is true, I prefer to consider Chemistry as the study of everyday processes, and I find immense satisfaction in providing the crucial link between the academic study of the subject and its application and importance within the real world. Explosions, vibrant colour changes and awe-inspiring laboratory experiments are, of course, a very close second!

What do you enjoy most about Stowe?

Having a passion for the outdoors, the natural beauty of the Gardens at Stowe fills me with joy on a daily basis. Alongside the beauty of the site, the community at Stowe has been incredibly welcoming. It is the combination of the good-natured people and allure of the site which make each working day a genuine pleasure.

What is your favourite lesson?

I enjoy teaching all aspects of the chemistry course, it's a true passion! Each area of the subject has its own degree of fascination that I so thoroughly enjoy expressing to the pupils that it would be near impossible to pick just one. However, if I had to choose, it would be the A Level topic of "Redox Reactions and Electrode Potentials". Being able to solve "the puzzles" of these reactions, deduce the correct final equations and ultimately provide a bridge between the disciplines of Chemistry and Physics, is an aspect that I find whole-heartedly enjoyable and overwhelmingly satisfying to accomplish.

 What do others say about you?

I would like to think that others say I am approachable, positive, and diligent. Priding myself on putting others before myself, I work hard to create an efficacious learning environment for my pupils and an atmosphere of approachability for both students and colleagues alike.

Other hats

As well as teaching Chemistry, I an Head of Teaching & Learning, a Fifth Form Tutor and Sports Coach (Rugby, Netball and Athletics) here at Stowe.

Passions

I have a genuine passion for my subject and will often find myself attending virtual MIT lectures within the field. I also enjoy playing sports (some better than others; golf is proving more difficult than it looks!), fitness training and researching the scientific principles of the universe. I also aim to make plenty of time for friends and family.