This week we’re putting the spotlight on Ms Amanda Parry, our Year 7 Head of Year.
Amanda brings warmth, experience, and dedication to her role at PBC. With a background in welfare work and over 20 years in education, she is passionate about supporting young people, fostering meaningful connections, and helping students navigate life’s challenges. Amanda’s approach combines empathy, structure, and encouragement, ensuring every student feels seen, heard, and valued.
Background & Experience
Amanda’s career began in welfare, supporting people on the streets and those recently released from prison. One pivotal moment inspired her to become a teacher: she realised she could make a positive difference in a young person’s life, helping them avoid similar struggles. Over two decades later, she reflects that teaching has been the best decision of her life.
Educated at a private girls’ school in the 1980s, Amanda credits influential teachers like Mrs Julie Windle and Leanne Wood for inspiring her own teaching philosophy. She thrives on building relationships with students and colleagues, appreciating the support and camaraderie that make the challenges of teaching manageable. Amanda believes that kindness is central to success—whether with students, families, or carers.
Her teaching style is collaborative and respectful, focusing on relationships first. One of her fondest memories is graduating her first cohort of students, many of whom are now thriving adults with careers and families of their own. It is moments like these, or the kind words of current students, that remind Amanda why she chose this vocation.
Personal & Fun
Outside teaching, Amanda enjoys creative pursuits and travel. She once planned to pursue photography and worked as an interior decorator before marriage and children.
Advice & Insights
Amanda has learned patience and the importance of showing care every day. She hopes all her students know she gives her best and genuinely cares for them. If she could have dinner with anyone, it would be Mahatma Gandhi, for his teachings on change without violence, and Marilyn Monroe: “She was so very smart yet so misunderstood, much like some of the young people I manage and have in my classes.”