Mr Dwyer, Head of Redmaids’ High School from September 2020.
What are you most looking forward to about living in Bristol?
Bristol is such a beautiful and lively city that is steeped in history; I have very fond memories of time spent here and look forward to creating more with my family. Moving to Bristol for the privilege of taking over from Mrs Tobias as Head at Redmaids’ High is also something I’m incredibly excited about!
What book did you last read?
The Education of an Idealist by Samantha Power, President Obama’s ambassador to the UN. This is a powerful memoir by an incredible woman, who remains honest about her idealism and desire to make the world a better place, while also recognising the compromises she had to make in a variety of high-profile political positions.
What is your favourite film or TV show?
As a History and Politics teacher I have always had a tremendous fondness for The West Wing. It’s perhaps a little dated in some respects now (notably the fashion choices of its characters!), but still holds up as one of the best TV programmes I’ve ever seen. My favourite film is far less cerebral, but no less witty in my opinion – 10 Things I Hate About You.
What is your greatest achievement?
I’m incredibly proud of my daughter and the person she is fast-becoming, even though she’s still only two. Having the chance to lead the Chartered College of Teaching as President is also something that I will always count as among my most treasured achievements.
What is your favourite memory from your school days?
I am fortunate to have many great memories from my time at school, but one that sticks out is a conversation with my History teacher in Year 12 about university applications and what might be possible for me. It’s not too much of an exaggeration to say that this conversation helped put me on the path that led to my joining Redmaids’ High as Head, and has always served as a reminder of the difference that teachers can make for each of our students.
What three words would your closest friends use to describe you?
Poor film taste!
Tell us about a surprising hobby/interest you have.
When I was younger I was a keen martial artist, achieving a black belt in Ju Jistu. Following on from that, I switched disciplines rather dramatically and took up ballroom dancing at university.
How do you relax away from work?
Usually by reading or taking our dog out for a long family walk.