People of IPS Cascais: Zara Cameron

Zara joined IPS Cascais this academic year. As a self-proclaimed thrill-seeking, travel-loving teacher of 16 years, she brings her passion for adventure into the classroom! She is teaching Geography and Mathematics at IPS Cascais Secondary School. There’s nothing she loves more than exploring the world's wonders and uncovering the forces that shaped them. Zara is all about digging into critical thinking and pushing boundaries to explore every possible angle. Zara very much sees life as an adventure, and  loves sharing the journey with her two amazing kids, husband and the pupils she gets the pleasure to teach.

 

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

I grew up in leafy Fulham, London. I loved my childhood as technology wasn’t a big part of it so I spent many evenings skating with friends, playing tennis and running. My family is sports crazy and as one of four children we all had passions in a variety of sports.

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

I love all of Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s books, in particular Purple Hibiscous and Half of a Yellow Sun. I am drawn to books based on real events but with a story line. I particularly like ones that paint a vivid picture of landscape and people’s lives within them. I think she does this beautifully.

What’s a favourite memory from your childhood?

Mainly my siblings. We are so close and enjoyed putting on shows and setting up shops frequently for anyone we could.

How did you become interested in working in education?

I started coaching tennis at 15 to disadvantaged kids in my local area and loved working with people. I then worked as a teaching assistant in a SEN school and developed a real love of working with older children. From there I combined my love of working with people with my subject passions and went into secondary teaching.

Tell us about your greatest achievement

I represented England in Tennis and had the opportunity to play a showcase match against Venus Williams and a doubles game with Andy Roddick at Arthur Ash stadium. It was very exhilarating.

What is your steepest learning curve?

My PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) was the biggest learning curve for me. I found the work challenging and wasn't prepared for the intensity of work coupled with teaching in inner London state schools. I was lucky to get a placement at Kings College London, but learnt so much during this time.

How do you remain curious?

I explore. I am a big fan of extreme sports and will always try my hand at things. I am always looking for something new to try. I have given kite surfing a go and really want to take this up again in Portugal. It also helps me refresh my knowledge on wind patterns and ocean currents. 

What motivates you to keep going during challenging times?

My family. My kids, husband, parents and siblings are so supportive of everything I do. They are my full time cheerleaders and it always lifts me up. 

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

This is hard as I feel I have been shaped by so many wonderful people and could list many. One person I admire and look up to is Sylvia Earl who broke barriers and shaped the understanding of women in the marine world. An area I am fascinated by after working as a dive instructor and marine conservationist in the Philippines. 

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

Dream and dream big because little dreams have no magic. It reminds me that anything is possible if you put your mind to it. 

IPS is a great place because....

It is so inclusive and full of fun and even though I am new I already feel like I am part of a family. One that will support me like my immediate one does. 

What would you like the community of IPS to know about you?

I am passionate about bringing the best out of everyone and strongly believe that this can be in any area. The fundamentals of education are important for growth, but understanding yourself is important to develop happiness. A skill I value highly. 

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

I want to learn to speak Portuguese and be able to visit local areas and converse in the language.