Steven Watts
Bio
My academic background is in mathematics and computer science. I currently teach both subjects at the London Academy of Excellence sixth-form, fulfilling a long-term goal of communicating my passion for my field and developing the academic potential of young people.
My teaching career is varied, and has given me experience in a diverse range of learning contexts and cultures, both domestic and international. Though each new experience has presented challenges, I always enjoy being given the opportunity to further develop my practice.
Education
King's College London
PhD
- Computer Science
University of Hertfordshire
Master's (MSc)
- Computer Science (Distinction)
Imperial College London
Bachelor's and Master's (MSci)
- Mathematics (2:1)
Chancellor's School
A-Levels
- Physics (A)
- Mathematics (A)
- Further Mathematics (A)
- AS Information and Communications Technology (A)
GCSEs
7 A*, 4 A Grades; Including Mathematics, English Language and Literature, German and ICT
Work Experience
Mathematics Teacher
Harris Garrard Academy
London, UK
- Taught mathematics full-time according to UK curriculum, including KS3, KS4 and KS5.
- Undertook weekly teacher training and teaching observations towards QTS and PGCE award.
- Developed a series of weekly tutorials to enable university access for underrepresented students.
- Worked with Researchers in Schools and the Brilliant Club to conduct educational research.
Informatics Teaching Assistant
King's College London
London, UK
- Delivered workshops and tutorials to undergraduate students within the Informatics department.
- Held weekly study sessions for students to communicate their difficulties with coursework.
- Met with senior lecturers to organise development and proof-reading of planned curricula.
- Courses included: Data Structures, Foundations of Computing, C++ Implementation.
Computer Science Head Tutor
Oxmedica Summer Programme
Riyadh, Saudia Arabia
- Developed bespoke Python course for Saudi Arabian governmental programme for gifted students.
- Taught top percentile of KS5 equivalent students in Saudi Arabia, pursuing acceptance to Oxbridge.
- Managed a team of PhD tutors, coordinated daily teaching schedules and lead regular meetings.
- Organised social and educational events and further learning activities for exceptional students.
ESL Teacher
Soseon Girl’s Middle School
Daegu, South Korea
- Taught full curriculum of English classes to middle school South Korean students.
- Worked with local staff to develop assignments, advanced exercises and end of semester exams.
- Performed general teaching administration duties and grading of projects and examinations.
- Conducted exam interviews, managed extracurricular learning camps and cultural experiences.
Financial Software Developer
Bloomberg L.P.
London, UK
- Undertook extensive training to work with core company infrastructure and technologies.
- Studied C, C++ and software development principles throughout intensive 3-month induction.
- Maintained integrity of the Bloomberg terminal with bug fixes and development of new features.
- Took ownership of project forecasting gas prices by modelling weather fluctuations.
Educational Content Author
Blue Duck Education Ltd.
London, UK
- Produced educational content for a startup website and online teaching aid in mathematics.
- Undertook training on company guidelines to maintain consistent standards in content.
- Held meetings to discuss potential new features and develop ideas for future educational software.
- Performed general administration and kept colleagues informed of updates in content and guidelines.
Qualifications & Associations
Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (HEA)
Associate Member of the Institute of Mathematics and its Applications (AMIMA)
Associate of King's College London (AKC)
CELTA (Certificate in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages)
Languages
Computing Skills
- C
- C++
- Excel
- Java
- JavaScript
- Latex
- Linux OS
- Matlab
- Microsoft OS
- Python
- SQL
- VBA
Interests
Travel
I consider my holiday time as a chance to sample the various adventures that the world has to offer, and a chance to explore the variety of the human experience. I love to explore new cultures, languages and food.
Sport
As a Swiss, my favourite outdoor activites involve hiking mountains and winter sports. I find it difficult to choose between skiing or snowboarding, though skiing is the current winner. I also really enjoy cycling, especially as a means to explore both my local area and when I'm travelling.
Genealogy
I originally began researching my family history out of mild curiosity, though over the years this has developed into a significant hobby. I now hold myself responsible for collecting photographs and stories of my relatives before they are lost in time. As a result of my research I've discovered some fascinating stories, met with long-lost family members, and even gained new citizenships.