Hi, I’m
Duncan Bridgnell
Kingsbridge,Devon
Summary
Dynamic principal instructor specializing in performance evaluation and staff development. Cultivates productive learning environments through effective behavior management strategies. Drives curriculum improvements by analyzing student data and implementing targeted interventions. Coordinates professional development programs that elevate teaching standards and foster continuous growth.
Overview
40
years of professional experience
1
Certification
Work History
Torbay Sea SchoolBrixham, Devon
Principal Instructor
10.2014 - 05.2026
Job overview
- Conducted performance evaluations for teaching staff and provided actionable feedback.
- Worked with staff to resolve behavioural and learning issues.
- Created behaviour management strategies to support productive learning environments.
- Analysed student data to target curriculum gaps and plan interventions.
- Administered school budgets to allocate resources for maximum impact.
- Analysed examination results to identify academic improvements and set priorities.
- Mentored newly qualified teachers with day-to-day guidance and integration support.
- Coordinated professional development programmes to strengthen instructional methods.
- Oversaw educational facilities and arranged maintenance and repairs as required.
- Coordinated school inspections and audits to achieve outstanding external results.
- Conducted performance appraisals and identified growth plans for teaching staff.
- Collaborated with teachers to improve classroom conditions and learning readiness.
- Delivered hands-on subject training showing methods, procedures, and principles.
- Maintained records with updated student information to track performance trends.
- Instructed students on tool and equipment use to prevent harm.
- Managed complaints using calm communication and practical problem-solving.
- Engaged with customers to understand needs and deliver excellent service.
- Instructed up to Yachtmaster motor and sail qualification standards.
- Instructed advanced powerboat instructors.
- Instructed Meterology to Yachtmaster theory standards.
- Instructed Foreign Military on behalf off the MOD
- Conducted performance evaluations of teaching staff, providing constructive feedback for professional development.
Self EmployedSouth West, Devon
Independent Instructor
10.2011 - 10.2014
Job overview
- Evaluated progress and delivered training to boost learner performance daily.
- Assisted students with disabilities to meet goals and surpass expectations.
- Managed one-to-one sessions and facilitated group teams for learning delivery.
- Developed coaching strategies and lesson plans to reach team goals.
- Managed classroom dynamics to keep learning safe and inclusive for all.
- Simplified complex theory using clear, relevant explanations and teaching.
- Provided guidance and counselling services supporting personal and professional development.
- Explained and demonstrated tasks to help learners use problem-solving approaches.
- Tested students to check understanding of course and workshop material.
- Provided one-to-one tutoring for additional support tailored to needs.
- Individualised instruction and tutoring matched student knowledge and skills.
- Used assessment strategies to identify strengths and weaknesses in learners.
Royal Navy
CPO (UW)
07.1986 - 10.2011
Job overview
- Coordinated active and passive sonar sensor operations across deployments to maintain contact.
- Captured raw oceanographic data to support sonar range forecasting needs.
- Compiled oceanographic inputs to raise sonar range prediction accuracy across missions.
- Served as divisional officer for 25 sailors to drive daily standards.
- Managed complaints using calm, clear communication and practical problem-solving.
- Met service time and quality targets through disciplined routine checks.
- Monitored team performance, then provided feedback and mentorship for growth.
- Led teams in high-pressure environments, making critical decisions under deadlines.
- Arranged training for personnel, then tracked performance against set objectives.
- Delivered comprehensive training programmes to improve team capability and readiness.
- Built a culture of respect, diversity, and inclusion within the unit.
- Directed emergency response teams during crises to act swiftly and effectively.
- Developed and executed training programmes to improve capabilities for varied missions.
- Conducted regular performance evaluations to identify improvements and corrections.
- Represented the Royal Navy at public and ceremonial events for service heritage.
- Mentored junior officers by providing guidance and support for progression.
- Conducted strategic navigation operations across global waters for vessel safety.
- Directed operation and maintenance of complex shipboard systems for performance.
Education
Royal Navy
University Overview
- 25 Years with the Royal Navy developing core skills:
- Leadership and Management
- Communication
- Oceanography
- Meteorology
- Maritime inception Operations
- Seamanship
- Navigation
- Safety Management Systems
- Advanced Firefighting and damage control
- Management of fixed and portable fire fighting systems
- Instructing
- investing in People
- Sensor Coordinator
- Whole ship Coordinator
Skills
- Performance evaluation
- Behaviour management
- Curriculum analysis
- Professional development
- Team leadership
- Training coordination
- Problem solving
- Teacher training
- Positive attitude
- Self-assessment
Certification
Yachtmaster Instructor Motor
Yachtmaster Instructor Sail
Advanced Power Boat Trainer
Advanced Power Boat Instructor
Power Boat Instructor
Yachtmaster Theory Instructor
RADAR Instructor
Navigation Instructor
VHF/SRC Assessor
Safety Boat Instructor
Full UK Driving License
Life Jacket Service agent
Hobbies and interests
- Volunteer for the local life boat as a training Officer
- Offroading
- Reading
Education
other
Timeline
Principal Instructor
Torbay Sea School
10.2014 - 05.2026
Independent Instructor
Self Employed
10.2011 - 10.2014
CPO (UW)
Royal Navy
07.1986 - 10.2011