People of IPS Cascais: Michelle Farrell

Michelle Farrell is a creative educator, with a passion for keeping learning fun and relevant. After 7 years of teaching in sunny Dubai, Shellie is thrilled to be back in Europe, especially the vibrant green landscapes of Portugal. She believes that learning should be fun, and uses her creative side to create engaging and innovative learning experiences. During her spare time, she loves spending time in nature with my dog, reading or doing yoga.

 

Where did you grow up, and what was it like there? 

I grew up in Dublin, Ireland. I was super lucky that my childhood took place on a variety of different sports fields! I was an avid player of Gaelic football (Ireland’s national sport) and played basketball, handball and volleyball in school.

 

What’s a tradition your family had while growing up that you still cherish? 

Dinner time is family time, dinner was when we were altogether, every evening at the table - no exceptions!

 

What’s your all-time favorite book, movie, band or TV show? 

I love Christmas movies - Home Alone and Elf are my favorites!

 

How did you become interested in working in education?

Initially, my love for education came from my love of Gaeilge (the Irish language) as it is mandatory for all Primary teachers to speak it in Ireland. I wanted to make it more fun for children, to keep the language alive. After university, I decided to move abroad and fell in love with the diversity and multiculturalism that education can foster. Unfortunately, I haven’t spoken much Irish in ten years!

 

How do you remain curious? 

Try new things - always! Even if something is unpopular, scary and something I know very little about, I like to give it a go! In the past few years, I’ve tried many different sports, hobbies and courses - snowboarding, photography, aerial yoga and pottery to name a few!

 

Who is someone in your life who has had a significant influence on who you are today? 

My mam for sure! She has faced many challenges throughout her life, she has beaten cancer twice and has the best outlook on life. Despite not living in the same country for years, we are as close as ever. She has taught me that time is precious and to always stick to what you believe in, doing the right thing even if others do not!

 

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?

‘Nature does not rush, yet everything gets accomplished’ - Lao Tzu

Sometimes, I remind myself that life is too short to spend all day rushing from one task to the next. Teaching can be super busy and it’s important to remind ourselves (and the children) to slow down and enjoy the little things in life.

 

What’s something you hope to accomplish in the next five years? 

I want to buy a house!! Someone fix the property market please!