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News | 13 September 2024

Who is Gisela Lightfoot?

It's time to get to know all the teachers and staff at IES Norrtälje! Next up is Gisela Lightfoot, Head of Mellanstadiet and maths teacher.

What did you do before you started at IES Norrtälje?
Before joining IES Norrtälje, my journey led me from South Africa to Sweden three and a half years ago. During that time, I was part of the community at IES Upplands Väsby, contributing to the educational landscape there.

What’s the best thing about your job?
Seeing those "Aha!" moments light up students' faces when they conquer a challenging maths problem! It's not just about teaching maths; it's about nurturing young minds, fostering a sense of curiosity, and empowering students to believe in themselves. Every day, I get to witness the spark of potential ignite within each child, guiding them as they discover their strengths and overcome their challenges. But the most heartwarming part? It's the relationships we build, the laughter we share, and the moments of genuine connection that remind me why I love being an educator. Together, we're not just learning; we're shaping futures and creating memories that last a lifetime.

What are you most looking forward to in the autumn?
Watching our new school blossom into a vibrant community of learners, explorers, and friends! I am sooooo excited!!!

Which one is your favourite song right now?
"A Beautiful Life" by Christopher. It's like a musical hug that lifts my spirits every time I hear it!

Do you have any pets?
Absolutely! My English Bulldog, Ulf - the wrinkliest, most adorable maths assistant you'll ever meet!

Tell something about yourself not many people know.
I'm secretly a gardening enthusiast! From planting seeds to watching them bloom, it's my zen time away from numbers and equations.

What was your favourite subject in school?
Math, without a doubt! It's like solving puzzles all day long, and who doesn't love cracking a good puzzle?

Do you have any dreams for the future?
To inspire a love for learning in every student who walks through our school's doors and to see them reach for the stars in their academic journey! Personally, more of a goal, not just a dream - to learn SWEDISH!!

What do you do outside of work?
Exploring our new country with my amazing husband and 4 boys! Whether it's hiking, trying new foods, or just soaking in the culture, every day is an adventure!

What do you do to peak the children's interest and desire to learn new things?
By making maths come alive with hands-on activities, games, and real-world applications! Learning should be as fun as it is rewarding!

What is your favourite memory with your students?
Picture this: we were knee-deep in a hands-on maths activity, exploring concepts in a way that made numbers come alive. As the excitement filled the air, I couldn't help but notice the joy radiating from each student's face. Then came the moment when they eagerly shared their discoveries, their eyes sparkling with newfound understanding. But what truly made my heart soar was hearing them say, "Thank you, Ms Lightfoot! Maths is so much fun!" It was a testament to the power of engaging, creative teaching and the incredible transformation that happens when learning becomes a joyous adventure. Moments like these remind me why I do what I do – to inspire a love for learning that lasts a lifetime!