Sophie Appelqvist, who has worked at The Ladies’ College for seven years, has successfully achieved chartered teacher status.
After three years of online study, and classroom-based research for a series of projects, Mrs Appelqvist completed the impressive qualification while continuing her various roles at the school as a teacher, and leader of the higher years.
‘I undertook further study to challenge myself,’ she said.
‘There’s a temptation to fall back onto what is familiar and comfortable – however, I wanted to ensure my teaching practice aligned with contemporary research and that my students were getting the best version of my teaching.
'I started study just after I returned to work after my second maternity leave and gaining chartered status has given back my confidence in my professional skills and allowed me to find time for myself and my own passions. I’m deeply passionate about teaching and learning.
‘As a study area it is endless, so I’m excited to be in my classroom, watching the positive impact it has on my wonderful students.’
Mrs Appelqvist was shortlisted for Teacher of the Year at last year’s Pride of Guernsey Awards. She was commended for teaching her students that gender should not be a limitation in their futures, and said at the time that she hoped to show her sons that women can make a difference – as both mothers and professionals.
As part of her recent qualification, Mrs Appelqvist conducted a major study into the impact of technology in schools, with a focus on self-regulated learning. From this, she developed her own learning model called Think, Speak, Bubble, Do.
Designed to support students’ deeper thinking and reflective learning, it was published in Impact Journal, and Mrs Appelqvist has since been asked to contribute content to the Myatt & Co teaching and learning platform.
Her wider research into the theory of desirable difficulty, has also led to the development of support materials for her colleagues.
Principal Daniele Harford-Fox said the school was incredibly proud of her achievement.
‘Becoming a chartered teacher takes real determination, curiosity and a genuine passion for teaching,’ she said. ‘Sophie is a brilliant role model for both colleagues and students, and this qualification is well deserved.’
