At Cambridge School of Bucharest (CSB), we believe that our teachers are at the heart of our community and our students’ success. In this Q&A feature, we sit down with Ms Nicola Smith, Head of Department for English Language, to learn more about her journey to CSB, her experience of the school’s culture, and what she finds most rewarding about teaching English here. From her first impressions of our academic focus to her insights into professional development and teamwork, Ms Smith shares what makes CSB such a special place to work and learn.
Q: What made you want to join Cambridge School of Bucharest?
A: I was interested in living in Eastern Europe as I have always been fond of the area. There are several international schools in Bucharest and I looked at the websites of all of them. Although I was interviewed for a couple of jobs, I took the role at CSB because I liked the academic focus of the school and the fact that the students are so driven to succeed. I have found my impressions from the website to be very true when coming to work here; it’s a joy to teach able, academic students and really engage with my subject.
Q: How would you describe the work culture?
A: I feel like the people who work here are happy to be here. CSB does so much for us as new arrivals – not only is the accommodation provided, which saves a lot of stress, it’s also very lovely accommodation, and we all know that the Office Manager will help if we do want to move (I don’t!). As well as being picked up and delivered to our new homes, we even get basic food and equipment to start us off here. I think that’s such a help.
In terms of working here every day, we have very fair and even generous timetable allocations, which means I have plenty of time to plan, mark, and look to the projects I want to put in place for the future. Work – life balance is absolutely great. I feel really positive about coming into work every day, knowing that I will enjoy my day and that I will have a good time teaching these students. This year in particular, picking up KS5 classes has been an absolute pleasure and I hope to keep doing this.
Q: What opportunities are there for professional development?
A: As well as our compulsory CPD (safeguarding etc) we receive a lot of offers from various CPD providers and if we want to go on something, all we have to do is ask. I am happy in my role as HOD, but Ms Rita made a point of asking what I’d like to do in future here, and where my interests lie, so I know that there will be opportunities for me to work at a whole school level in areas which I am passionate about. There are also roles available for newer (younger!) staff so that they can gain more experience.
Q: What is the most rewarding part of teaching English at CSB?
A: Teaching very literate, intelligent students! When I first saw the curriculum I worried that it might be too ambitious, but I immediately knew I was wrong when I saw how the students engaged with the content. We have been able to put our own slant on things and the department has the freedom to deliver in their own way. We are constantly building and adapting our curriculum.
Q: How would you describe CSB’s English department?
A: Amazing. I am so lucky as a HOD, because I know that when I drop into a lesson I will be welcomed and I will see good practice. We are a good team, with plenty of expertise and skill across the different sides of English and at different key stages. We also see everything in a positive light, and we can go to each other about anything. We are, I hope, friends as well as colleagues.
At Cambridge School of Bucharest, we are proud to have dedicated, passionate educators like Ms Smith who inspire our students every day. Her reflections highlight the welcoming community, strong academic ethos, and professional opportunities that make CSB an exceptional environment for both staff and students. We look forward to continuing to build on this culture of confidence, success, and belonging together.