Friday Feature: Mr A Ryman
1st December 2023
What is your current position at King Edward's Witley and how long have you worked here?
I am currently a Teacher of Sports and Head of 3rd Form. I have been at King Edward’s since January 2019 so coming up to 5 years. I started as a part-time Sports Coach and was lucky enough to be able to take my PGCE to become a PE teacher at KESW. I then worked in Edward House as an Assistant Housemaster for 3 years, before undertaking my new role.
What is your background, and where do you live now?
I am originally from Cheltenham and went to university in Cardiff. I met my now wife, and current Drama teacher, Mrs Ryman whilst we were working in Ibiza. We then worked the following summer in Mallorca before I moved to this area to live with her in Cranleigh. We currently live on site at KESW, with our 8 week old baby, Alfie.
What is your favourite thing about working at King Edward's Witley?
My favourite thing about working at King Edward’s is the pupils. As a PE teacher, I get to know a lot of the pupils and they are a joy to work with. I also teach academic PE, with GCSE and A Level, and again thoroughly enjoy the working relationships I have built with the pupils.
What are your hobbies and interests?
My main passion is football and I am a big Manchester City fan, getting to as many games as I am able to attend. I also play 5-a-side and play in a team with Mr Downs. I also love golf and play regularly with Mr Lumley. With a wife that teaches Drama, I also go to the theatre quite often!
As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?
As a sporty child, I always wanted to be involved in sport. Initially, I probably wanted to be a footballer or a football coach/manager. Having a passion for many different sports though, I feel like being a PE teacher is my perfect job!
What is the funniest thing a pupil has ever said to you?
A pupil once sent me an email, asking for my email address – that made me laugh!
Who is someone you have always admired and why?
From a football perspective, Pep Guardiola. He is a superb football manager who has changed the game and how it is played. He has had a big influence on my coaching. From a teaching point of view, Mr Miller. He believed in me when I first joined KESW and campaigned for me to do my PGCE. For that, I will always be grateful.
