Fatima Hapsa Firthous
Summary
An educational professional with experience in evidence-informed practice, curriculum and assessment design across KS3–KS5, including post-16 pathways. Expertise in teaching methodologies, including dual-coding and the use of visualisers, complemented by the ability to simplify complex content into digestible, teachable segments. Demonstrates a commitment to enhancing educational outcomes while leveraging innovative strategies and collaborative approaches to achieve excellence.
Overview
5
5
years of professional experience
4
4
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification
Work history
Lead Practitioner
Mayfield School
Goodmayes, Redbridge
06.2024 - Current
- Delivered research-informed CPD and morning briefings, supporting consistent teaching and learning practices across departments.
- Analysed attainment and progress KS4-5 data to evaluate the impact of teaching and curriculum interventions and inform future strategic priorities.
- Planned and delivered targeted CPD for ECTs and PGCE trainees, focusing on classroom practice, and curriculum implementation.
- Designed and implemented interventions targeting disadvantaged learners, contributing to reduced attainment gaps for FSM and Pupil Premium students.
- Led the renewal and redesign of KS3 Science curriculum, ensuring clear progression, strong disciplinary knowledge, and alignment with GCSE pathways.
- Designed and quality-assured GCSE mock examinations, including mark schemes and assessment materials aligned to AQA specifications.
2ic Science
Willowfield School
London, Walthamstow
09.2022 - 06.2024
- Developed and implemented KS3 LTP and resources to support diverse learning needs in science education at Willowfield.
- Mentored ECT in effective teaching strategies and classroom management techniques.
- Conducted lesson observations to share best practice and provide coaching.
- Designed formative and summative assessments for KS3 and KS4.
Teacher of Science
Forest Gate Community School
London
07.2020 - 07.2022
- Created comprehensive, engaging resources in line with specification.
- Maximised student learning and engagement by following EDI approach to teaching.
- Embedded retrieval practice in all lessons which has served as formative assessment tool to check for understanding.
- Taught science explanations through live modelling exam questions and implemented live marking to ensure progression of student learning.
- Built productive, professional student-teacher relationships through praise and phone calls home, providing safe, positive learning environment.
- Held year 11 after school exam skills and lunchtime interventions.
- Incorporated educational experiments to engage, develop and strengthen students' imagination across science.
- Organised science week and held CPDs during science department meetings
Education
PGCE, Chemistry - Chemistry
UCL, Institute of Education
London 09.2019 - 07.2020
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry, BSc
Queen Mary, University of London
London 09.2016 - 07.2019
A-Levels -
NCS Sixth Form
LondonSkills
- Highly organised with strong attention to detail
- Teaching through dual-coding and using visualiser
- Comfortable working in complex, fast-moving environments
- Strong commitment to mission-led, evidence-based education policy
- Resourcefulness
Certification
- Currently undertaking the NPQ in Leading Teaching, strengthening expertise in evidence-informed classroom practice and professional development. (November 2025 - Present)
- Successfully completed the PTI Middle Leader Certificate (Macro Module), with a focus on curriculum leadership and sustained improvement over time (July 2025).
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Lead Practitioner
Mayfield School
06.2024 - Current
2ic Science
Willowfield School
09.2022 - 06.2024
Teacher of Science
Forest Gate Community School
07.2020 - 07.2022
PGCE, Chemistry - Chemistry
UCL, Institute of Education
09.2019 - 07.2020
Bachelor of Science - Chemistry, BSc
Queen Mary, University of London
09.2016 - 07.2019
A-Levels -
NCS Sixth Form