Mr Michael Rickner

Life before Stowe

My life before Stowe consisted of attending Wallington County Grammar School for Boys and attending Exeter University where I read Theology. Whilst at university I played rugby for the Exeter Chiefs and captained England Students. Following three years there, I went back to teach RS, rugby and cricket at Wallington Grammar whilst playing for Esher RFC. Having caught the teaching bug I went to Oxford University to do my PGCE in Religious Studies, which led me to a job at Stowe School and completing an Msc in Teaching in Learning back at Oxford, whilst gaining 2 winning Rugby Union Blues.

What do you enjoy most about your subject?

I enjoy investigating and understanding the continued impact that Religion has on the world. There will be no part of civilisation which is not influenced heavily by Religion and I enjoy going on this journey of discovering (both personally and in the classroom) how, where, when and why this impact and influence on society by Religion takes place.

Being the Head of the Projects department allows me to be involved in the rich tapestry of Stoic’s independent learning projects. Whether it is an essay on the behaviour of dogs or an artefact where someone has created a music composition to explore emotions, the Projects department is an opportunity for Stoics to really explore a specific area that they enjoy the most.

What do you enjoy most about Stowe?

I enjoy the close knit community which is generated by a boarding school. The opportunities on offer both for Stoics and staff are second to none and it is a great place to work and develop.

What is your favourite Lesson?

It is very hard to choose my favourite lesson; but, I particularly enjoy looking at the history of Islam with the Sixth Form Philosophy and Religion students and the arguments for God’s existence with GCSE P&R students.

As mentioned previously – the huge variety of topics the EPQ affords is for me, the best part!
My favourite Third Form lesson is looking at the question ‘Where was God during the Holocaust?’ and examining the Jewish responses to the Holocaust.

What do others say about you?

I think others say I am dedicated, hard-working and empathetic.

Other hats

I am the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead, Assistant Deputy Head Pastoral as well as being Queen’s Houseparent with my wife Sophie. I also coach the 1st XV and 1st VII rugby teams at Stowe, and I am the School’s EPQ coordinator.

Passions

Rugby, cricket – and spending time with Sophie, our children and our two Working Cockers.