Growing up in East Finchley, London, I was always captivated by the idea of exploring new horizons. I would spend afternoons dreaming about travel. Even the London tubes excited me –  watching them whizz past at Cherry Tree Woods wondering which train was going where! Or visiting Heathrow, with barely enough money for the ticket there, watching planes take off and wishing I was sitting on one! These early experiences sparked my curiosity about the wider world—a curiosity that still drives me today.

I studied a BSc Honours Combined STEM at the Open University, which gave me the flexibility to pursue my degree whilst travelling. One particular memory stands out: finishing a project on Special Relativity while sitting in a hotel lobby in Rome early one morning, before heading out to explore the city. Remote study was transformative for me, as it opened up a world of possibilities, combining education with my passion for seeing new places.

I then went on to study my Post Graduate Certificate in Education at Sussex University, and achieved my qualified teacher status (QTS) along with my PGCE. This naturally led me into teaching. I taught Key Stage 3 Science, GCSE and A Level Physics, and GCSE Mathematics in Secondary schools on the South Coast of England.

I love teaching; there is no doubt about that. But I wanted more than the everyday stresses of school life. My students were fantastic, even the most challenging ones, and I loved seeing their progression. Unfortunately, the UK education system is in a state of crisis. The relentless paperwork, meetings for the sake of meetings, rules and tick-box procedures to satisfy OFSTED (the education inspection body) eventually took its toll. I wanted more and so Trail Alexander was born.

Starting Trail Alexander has been a dream come true.  It’s a natural progression of everything that has motivated me over the years – teaching wonderful students and travelling. I’m proud to see this project come to life.

Meeting Ronaldo, my partner, has been a significant part of this journey. As a Brazilian-Italian language teacher, he shares my enthusiasm for learning and experiencing new cultures. Together, we’ve visited diverse places, which has naturally shaped the direction of Trail Alexander. Ronaldo’s background and perspective have added real depth to our shared experiences, and I am so pleased that we have come together on this wonderful project.

This is more than just a blog and tutoring platform; it’s a place to share heartfelt experiences, connect with like-minded people and, of course, share our passion and knowledge with others through teaching and learning.

I hope you can join us on this journey – discover, learn, achieve! Bon Voyage!