CV

Amanda Ralph

Elementary & Secondary Visual Arts and Design Teacher & Head of Department

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I am a dedicated Visual Art and Design teacher and Head of Department, known for creating a supportive and inclusive learning environment. My student-centered approach fosters creativity, critical thinking, and inquiry-based learning, nurturing personal growth and self-expression. I encourage students to explore and experiment with artistic concepts, promoting their individuality and artistic voices. I excel at fostering collaboration among students and colleagues, with a continued focus on improving student learning. I regularly assess student progress and provide constructive feedback, continuously adapting and enhancing the curriculum to meet evolving student needs and support their holistic development. Beyond the classroom, I actively engage students in community partnerships through student service, inspiring them to make positive contributions within the school and the wider community.

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HIGHER EDUCATION

 

Moray House School of Education, The University of Edinburgh, Scotland

Professional Graduate Diploma in Education  - Secondary and Primary Art & Design Specialism        2012-2013

 

The Scottish School of Textiles and Design, Heriot-Watt University, Scottish Borders

BA (Hons) Fashion and Textile Design for Industry Completed with Honors of the First Class               2004-2008

 

VISUAL ART AND DESIGN TEACHING EXPERIENCE

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MYP/DP Visual Art and Design Teacher and Head of Department

 International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme                              August 2019 - present

Yokohama International School, Japan                                                             

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MYP Design and Visual Art Teacher

International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme                              Aug 2016 - June 2019

Yokohama International School, Japan                                                             

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PYP Visual Art Teacher and Whole School Visual Art Coordinator

International Baccalaureate Primary Years Programme                           Aug 2014 - June 2016

Dwight International School, Seoul, South Korea                                    

                      

Seconday Visual Art Teacher S1-S5

Curriculum for Excellence, Education Scotland

Beeslack Community High School, Midlothian, Scotland (Secondary)       Apr 2013 - July 2014

Exceptional attainment in 2013 academic results.

 

Educational Placements:

Dalkeith High School, Midlothian, Scotland (Secondary)                            Jan 2013– Mar 2013

 

Newbattle High School, Midlothian, Scotland (Secondary)                         Oct 2013–Dec 2013

 

Mayfield Primary School, Midlothian, Scotland (Primary)                           Oct 2013–Dec 2013

 

 

RELATED EXPERIENCE

 

Tumbleweeds Pre-school & Kids Club, Ffreyes Beach, Antigua, West Indies

Pre School Teacher (3-5 years)                                                                      Jan 2011 – Mar 2012

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Full Time Teaching Assistant (Kindergarten 4-5 years)                               Aug 2010 -Jun 2011

K International School, Tokyo

                                                  

PYP Primary School Library Teacher                                                             Aug 2009 – Jun 2010

K International School, Tokyo

 

 

SKILLS AND ACCOMPLISHMENTS

 

Teaching and Learning

•    An ability to plan coherent, progressive, and stimulating teaching programs that match learners needs and abilities.

•    A sound knowledge of the nature of the curriculum and its development.

•    Uses both formative/summative assessments, tracking progress and reporting in order to support and enhance 

      student learning.

•    Experience in cross-curricular and interdisciplinary planning with teachers from different areas of the curriculum.

•    Implements an inquiry-based learning environment, differentiating learning experiences and teaching strategies so 

      that every child can reach their full potential.

 

Curriculum Development

• Assisted in the development of curriculum documents for Curriculum for Excellence, Scotland, and PYP (International Baccalaureate) including Scope & Sequence, MYP & DP Visual Art & Design curriculum development, yearly overviews as well as unit planners and formative/summative assessment tasks.

• Responsible for developing coursework presentations and notes for the Advanced Higher and Higher Art & Design       Curriculum.

• Assisted in the creation and implementation of an advisory/mentoring program in Yokohama International School and Scotland. Responsible for creating engaging lessons that encouraged students to set meaningful goals and targets with regard to their learning and social, and emotional development as learners.

• Documented and analyzed vertical and horizontal articulation throughout the whole visual arts program at Dwight, PYP, MYP & and DP. 

• Part of the IT Steering Committee reviewing policies and creating strategies for integrating IT throughout the whole school.

• Involved in the CIS/NEASC Accreditation process for both the Expressive Arts Department, Access to teaching and Learning, and the Early Years.

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Student/Parent Relations

• A diplomatic and caring approach to teaching helps me to develop positive relationships and positive behavior strategies within my teaching practice.

• An ability to communicate effectively and interact productively with learners.

• Through discussions, reports, and frequent communication, I have managed to develop successful professional relationships with parents regarding their child’s development.

 

Professional Attributes

• An ability to collaborate as part of a focused team. 

• Ability to work effectively with other professionals in order to promote learning and well-being.

• Well-developed organizational skills and a resourceful approach to planning and teaching.

• Dedicated to providing exciting and stimulating learning experiences for all students.

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REFERENCES AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST