Meet the Tutors: Ian Bell

Ian recently took a group of HTP students sailing!

“I know what it’s like to think “what do I do next?”

 

I’ve always been excited by the outdoors. Our courses are a different sort of learning. We do work in the classroom but we also head for our base in Parkhurst Forest once a week, where we can present teaching in a different way. We get to go mountain biking, but we’re also learning about navigation, timings, building a team and managing the task in hand.

I joined HTP in September 2021. I had previously worked at a children’s activity centre and my background is in outdoor learning provision. My degree is in youth and community work. In my early twenties I worked in Canada on a summer camp, which has really stayed with me, where we water skied before we went to work!

I grew up in the north Manchester area, on the edge of the Pennines. On Sundays we would go walking on a Sunday with the dogs so I was always exploring the outdoors. Our family had a canoe and I was in youth clubs at school as well as the Scouts.

Working for HTP means I can match my skills to a learning environment again. I’m in my early 50s now so teaching is great for me and I can continue to work outdoors and with young people. I have two sons so my weekends are usually spent outdoors, in the water or on the water, kayaking, snorkelling or swimming in the sea.

I often see the younger me in my students. I know what it’s like to think “what do I do next? How do I make the fun carry on?” It’s a thrill to be able to help them to take decisions that can help shape their lives and careers. I really enjoy watching them find themselves.

Rachael Potter teaching Professional Cookery
Rachael Potter teaching Professional Cookery

Questions?

For more information on how you can start your dream career call us on 01983 824930 or fill in our Contact Form

Ready?

We have Apprenticeship and Traineeship opportunities available right now – across the Isle of Wight and the South coast, in all types of businesses.

Contact Us

Monday–Thursday: 9:00am–5:00pm
Friday: 9:00am–4:30pm

Isle of Wight
01983 533926

Portsmouth
02392 374752

or at any time via Social Media