Before joining our team, Matt worked at a College/University Centre where he completed his teaching degree and taught maths to adults who had been put off the subject at a young age. His role at RSUK allows him to use his knowledge and experience in the education sector to help teachers successfully implement Reading Plus in their schools.
What did you do before becoming a Reading Development Consultant at Reading Solutions UK?
It’s been pretty varied so far! I’ve worked in Chemistry, Pharmaceuticals, the Music Industry, Office Management, Finance, Quality, Teaching, International Student Recruitment and more.
What attracted you to the education sector?
It started with a Train the Trainer scheme in the pharmaceuticals sector. I enjoyed helping my colleagues and new employees develop and expand their skill sets.
Later I worked at a College/University Centre where I completed my teaching degree and taught maths to adults that had been put off the subject at a young age. It sparked that same feeling again when I saw the students begin to understand and enjoy the subject!
Describe yourself in three words.
Driven. Sociable. Creative.
Tell us more about your role at Reading Solutions UK.
I’m a Reading Development Consultant. I work to partner with schools and get in touch with representatives to introduce the Reading Plus software. I engage in talks with schools to deep dive into how Reading Plus was developed, how it adapts to the child’s level as they progress and how it can help children who have a good grasp of phonics but need a helping hand with reading fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.
What do you enjoy most about being a Reading Development Consultant?
Knowing we’re making a difference in young people’s lives. Being proficient readers will set up children on a path to greater success in life. I’ve seen the results for myself, and the software really does work.
When you are not working, what do you enjoy doing?
I love walking on the dunes of the beautiful Northeast coast or at a National Trust Park with my wife and children. We also love to visit the Lakes District on the weekend. When I get a chance, I love to go snowboarding.
What advice would you give to your younger self?
Remember to be thankful for what you have and enjoy life!
What was your favourite childhood book?
George’s Marvellous Medicine by Roald Dahl. The relationship with his evil grandmother, the freedom of making a potion all by yourself, and the description of the effects of the medicine. Every little boy’s dream!
What piece of tech can you not live without and why?
My phone would be too obvious, so… my snowboard! So much tech goes into making them nowadays; to me, it represents the feeling of freedom.
If you had a superpower, what would it be and why?
Time Travel. To see the dinosaurs in person and the future of humanity!