Carragh NashTeacher of Maths, Resident Tutor Chalmers East

I am from a small town in Northern Ireland called Derry. I visited Edinburgh a few times before joining Merchiston in Autumn 2020, and fell in love with the city. I knew I wanted to experience living here. It has not disappointed: it is beautiful!

This is my first experience teaching in an all boys boarding school, and in the short time I have been at Merchiston, it has been nothing short of one of the best teaching experiences I've had. The sense of community is something that makes the school stand out, as well as the wealth of opportunities offered to you in order to be involved in the wider school community. I have already been involved in taking gym sessions, going on outdoor excursions to the Pentlands and gaining lifeguard training.

INTERESTS

Aside from having a love for Mathematics, I am also really passionate about all things health and fitness. From a young age I have played netball and was part of my school swimming team. This evolved into weight training from around age 16 and has lead me to gain my Level 2 Fitness Instructor and Level 3 Personal Trainer Qualifications. I love how I have been able to demonstrate my interests in these areas at Merchiston as well as teaching my subject, its extremely refreshing!

FUNNIEST MOMENTS

Firstly, I don't think a day goes by in school where the boys ask if I watch 'Derry Girls' - a few actually believe I went to the same school that was on the show!

Secondly, I think it was week two into starting at Merchiston and I was in the middle of teaching sixth form. The heel on my boot fell off and it's safe to say the lesson turned from Maths to a DT lesson on how to fix my shoe! .

INSPIRING MOMENT

I am genuinely inspired every day seeing the determination and work ethic in the students, in all aspects of their learning. You can tell they will leave Merchiston as true gentlemen, with the skills and qualities to help them achieve whatever it is they desire, and its a privilege to be a part of that journey.