Monthly feature: meet our Capital staff team

Rachel Belfield

2ic/KS3 Lead for English and CLT Secondment

Where did you grow up?

I grew up in Stoke-on-Trent.

What was your favourite subject at school?

Unsurprisingly, English! I also enjoyed Art and Theatre Studies.

What university did you go to?

For my undergraduate degree, I went to Sheffield University and I did my Master's at UCL. By complete coincidence, my mum went to Sheffield and my dad went to UCL so I followed in their footsteps!

What made you decide to go into teaching?

I used to work at a charity research centre, where Teach First was one of our clients and thought that their programme sounded like a good alternative to my desk job. I'd never thought about teaching before then but applied on a bit of a whim and haven't looked back since. 

What are your hobbies outside of work?

I like drawing and painting (though I'm quite rusty!) and have recently started making art on my computer. Pre-lockdown I used to go to the theatre and art galleries quite a bit too. Since lockdown, I've started cooking a lot more - I've found it's a nice way to separate work and home time when you're confined to one space!

What is your favourite part of the job you currently do?

I love the variety of it - you never really know how your day is going to unfold. Whilst that can be quite stressful, it also makes the job challenging, rewarding and fun.

What is your favourite thing about working at Capital?

The people - the staff are enthusiastic and passionate, and the students are totally unique and amazing young people to work with.