John Pedersen — teacher and a Head of Secondary School

What we, as teachers, do every day is having an impact on the future. Recognition of the importance of this responsibility is what inspires me in my daily practice. I have a student-centred approach to teaching: I endeavour to treat each student as an individual, addressing their ability and learning styles in an effort to assist every student to reach their potential, while maintaining a fun and enjoyable atmosphere.

I have been a teacher for 20 years. Most of that time has been in international education here in Russia. I not only seek to inspire my students to become life-long learners, but hold myself to that practice. In addition to my teaching qualifications (B.Ed. – with focus on second language acquisition) and B.A. (Modern and Ancient History, and English), I have also completed an M.Ed (Leadership) and have recently completed an MBA. I believe I must continuously assess and evaluate my professional practice to stay current with the educational theory and practice.

I originally come from Surfers Paradise, Australia, but have travelled extensively, living and working in The Netherlands, Brazil, US and Canada, before arriving in Russia in 2005. I still hold the ambition to travel to Antarctica, the only continent I have yet to visit.

I’m a very active person and enjoy playing sports. I am a keen sailor and have sailed yachts in many parts of the world, however, I have yet to cross an ocean, which remains one of my greatest dreams. I try to get on a boat at every opportunity – yet another reason I am happy to have relocated to St Petersburg! I also enjoy swimming, playing tennis, golf and beach volleyball. I also do some sort of daily exercise and fitness. During less pleasant weather and winter, I like to read books and play chess or board games.

My family and I have moved to St Petersburg from Moscow and we are delighted to be able to take advantage of everything the city of St Petersburg, and ISSPB, has to offer.