Rhian Ivory

Life before Stowe

I studied English Literature at Aberystwyth University and then trained to become an English and Drama teacher. I taught for several years before leaving to have my first child which coincided with a two-book publishing deal from Bloomsbury. I now have three children and my seventh novel came out in October. I'm currently editing my 8th novel for teens and my first picture book.

What do you enjoy most about your subject?

I love helping students in Skills with their coursework, essays and prep, whether that's for English or another subject. It's a rewarding job which allows me to give one student the whole of my attention ensuring they are able to present work which is coherent and succinct.

What do you enjoy most about Stowe?

It's a beautiful place to come to work but my favourite thing has to be the students who are all - without exception - grateful for the effort and help on offer to them here, in the Skills department and the wider school.

What is your favourite lesson?

English and History. I've taught English for twenty years now and still love bringing a text, like Macbeth, to life for students. I enjoy helping them decode Shakespeare's language so that the plot and themes are accessible. I studied C16th History but not C20th, so am broadening my understanding of this part of the course through the history students who come to see me in Skills.

What do others say about you?

I've no idea, hopefully good things!

Other hats

I teach 2 days a week in the Skills department, the rest of the week is spent either writing or editing the book I'm currently working on or visiting schools across the UK (and abroad as of next year) to run creative writing workshops. I also attend a wide range of literary festivals across the UK as an author and guest speaker.

Passions

Theatre. Reading. Literary festivals. Canoeing with my children and dogs. Training Medical Detection Dogs and working with PAT dogs and the Singing Medicine team at Birmingham Children's Hospital.