Meet our new Head of Mathematics, Mr. Christoph Cox

My journey to China began in South East London, where I had moved after completing first my Mathematics degree at Bath University and then my PGCE. I taught ages 11-18 for four years at a diverse school with students from a number of backgrounds. My Further Mathematics A level classes often featured students originally from China, so to get to know them better I started learning to speak Chinese, which was a challenge I enjoyed. When the opportunity arose to move abroad, I took it, and am about to start my third year in China.

When reflecting on why I entered teaching I often think back to my own experiences at school, and how fortunate I was to have teachers who presented subjects in a creative, and stimulating way. It is my aim to continue this process, and provide students avenues to discover for themselves as they learn, in an environment where they feel supported to deepen their understanding through questioning.

In my subject Mathematics in particular the seemingly always looming examination pressure can potentially cause some of the joy to be stripped from topics. I relish the challenge of structuring lessons that cause students to think, rather than simply remember, helping to develop their problem solving abilities and preparing them for further study in their chosen area. As with any skill this needs to introduced gradually, but the aim is to promote curiosity and resilience, which leads to more enjoyable lessons for all.

I am eagerly looking forward to getting started at Britannica International Shanghai, through both continuing the development of the Mathematics department, and becoming a part of the wider school community. Having visited the school it was clear to see the inclusive and welcoming atmosphere throughout, that results in the positive attitudes towards learning required for all students to reach their potential.