City of Norwich School
Meet the Deputy Headteacher and Director of Sixth Form, Kate Nichols www.cns-school.org
What brought you to Norfolk and CNS?
I came to Norfolk in 1999 to study for a chemistry degree at UEA; having finished, I stayed on to do my PGCE in secondary teaching. At the time, the government were offering money to train and pay off my student debt if I stayed in teaching for five years. This was an excellent incentive to joining teaching. Having previously thought I’d never go into teaching, I loved the training and did my first placement at CNS.
I have had a variety of roles at the school from faculty leader of science and assistant head through to my current role as deputy head teacher, which includes being the director of our large 420 strong sixth form.
What do you love about sixth form?
The transition of a Year 11 student into a Year 13 who leaves us ready for the world of adulthood is extremely special. They grow up and into themselves so much in sixth form and I love being part of that transition. Sixth formers make me laugh on a daily basis, whether it’s turning up in a lobster outfit (happened this year!), their entrepreneurial flare, or their reasons for lateness, they certainly keep us on our toes. The teachers who work with the sixth formers are also a joy. With over 30 different A-levels on offer at CNS, plus the EPQ and Gold DofE, the level of expertise and passion of the people that I work with every day is a pleasure.
What is your favourite place in Norfolk?
There is nothing better than an early morning swim at Sea Palling with the flat sands and the odd seal to keep you entertained. I also just love Norwich; it truly is a Fine City!