Ever since I was a child, I have loved Mathematics. Whether it was a puzzle, a game, a formula, an equation, or an impossible problem to solve, I have always been fascinated by the challenge and the logic behind it. Being able to do what I love every day is something I am truly grateful for.

In 2008, I graduated from the Academy of Economic Studies, followed by a Master’s degree in Business Communication. Shortly after completing my dissertation, life took me to the United Kingdom, where I spent 12 years. I initially worked in banking and real estate in London, but in 2016 I decided to pursue what had always been my dream: to use my passion for Mathematics and become a teacher.

As my undergraduate degree is in Economics, accepting the opportunity to teach Business Studies was a natural choice. Business is a subject that surrounds us every day, making learning authentic and meaningful. The concepts students encounter are not abstract – they are reflected in the world around them and in their everyday lives. I consider myself incredibly fortunate to have a career that I genuinely enjoy. The saying, “Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life,” resonates deeply with me.

In 2016, I began a one-year School Direct postgraduate teacher training programme in London. The programme combined four days a week of teaching practice in secondary schools with one day of university study. In 2017, I was awarded Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), after which I taught Mathematics and Business Studies for several years in a secondary school in South East London. It was there that I realised teaching was the career I wanted for the rest of my life. I love working with young people, and I find immense satisfaction in helping them grow academically and personally.

During my time teaching in London, I explored and implemented a wide range of innovative teaching strategies that increased student engagement and encouraged a genuine appreciation for the subjects I taught. I have always enjoyed experimenting with new approaches and adapting my teaching to meet the needs of different learners.

Life has a way of presenting unexpected opportunities, and in 2022 I decided to return to Romania, bringing with me the knowledge, experience, and professional values I had developed abroad.

During my time at Avenor, I have truly enjoyed teaching here. From my very first interaction with the school, I felt that it was the right place for me, and that feeling has only grown stronger. I enjoy planning and delivering engaging, challenging lessons that are carefully adapted to the needs of each class. No two lessons are ever the same because no two groups of students are the same. I am creative, reflective, and willing to take calculated risks in my teaching. The strong relationships I have built with my students allow me to introduce new strategies with confidence, knowing that I can evaluate what works best for each class and continually refine my practice.

And since nothing excites me more than a challenge, when the Mathematics Curriculum Leader position came up, I knew I had to go for it. I have always been someone who embraces challenges and is willing to step outside my comfort zone. Relationships are very important to me, and I believe they are at the core of a strong and successful department.

When I think of the department in five years’ time, I see results that speak for themselves and reflect all of our hard work and dedication. I see colleagues who enjoy being part of our department and see it as a place where they can grow and thrive. Most importantly, I see students flourishing and happy parents.