Denise Judson

Biology, science, and drama teacher

“To be teaching biology is magic! In my time, a person first landed on the moon. Students today have the human genome and I want them to be aware and knowledgeable in this area and realise its importance and significance."

With an academic background in the arts and science, Denise first began her teaching career as a primary teacher. From there, and after a break to travel, Denise returned to become a specialist art teacher in the intermediate system.
However, it wasn't until after she had returned to university to complete a BA in Education and Drama and a BSc in Botany and Mycology that she was able to take up one of her passions, biology teaching.

"To be teaching biology is magic," says Denise. "Nothing beats seeing cells and realising that these microscopic cells are continuing processes. I enjoy exposing the students to a view of the world that isn't readily available to them," Denise enthuses.

Denise also enjoys other aspects of teaching biology. "With genetics, biology is such a fast developing area. In my time, a person first landed on the moon. Students today have the human genome and I want them to be aware and knowledgeable in this area and realize its importance and significance."

The extra curricular aspects of teaching help Denise enjoy her other passion, the arts, particularly drama. She was her school's Smokefree Stage Challenge liaison teacher this year and was proud when her school jointly won the regional award. "Drama is the arena where I can unleash my creative side, and use my art skills in prop and set making. Drama is about taking risks, I want to keep fostering this life skill."

As well as teaching helping Denise fulfil her many passions, she enjoys the interactive nature of it and seeing students learn. "Students when they are younger, are naturally inquisitive," maintains Denise. "I want them to continue questioning, to give them the thirst for knowledge and wisdom. I am not here to impart vast quantities of facts!"