Catching up with... Helen Lumgair

This month we catch up with Helen Lumgair.

When were you at Kingston and what did you study?

I attended Kingston from 2006 – 2009, completing a BA (Hons) in Early Years Teaching.

Why did you choose Kingston?

Kingston offered a flexible study option that was essential for me at the time as I was working both as a Montessori teacher and private tutor. It was a busy time!

What do you remember about your time at Kingston? In three words.

Brilliant, pastoral care.

Have you been back since graduation? If so when and what for?

Yes, I have recently been working with the inspirational Jo Van Herwergen, a senior lecturer in Psychology from the School of Psychology, Sociology and Criminology. Jo is assisting with an Early Years Education Conference I'm organising called ENABLE 2015, an event designed to  bring together leading experts to provide actionable insights for early years professionals.

Are you still in touch with anyone from your Kingston days?

Yes, I've just spoken to a colleague who is also working on the creation of a new initiative for the early years. We were both clearly inspired to innovate in our chosen field through our studies.

What did you expect to do after graduating? Are you still doing that now?

I expected to teach and while I continue to do so, I'm also currently working on a couple of interesting projects including the creation of ENABLE 2015 and a new Equality Studies Global Initiative which will roll out with a curriculum for the early years.

What's your greatest achievement?

My greatest achievements have been in finding the correct strategies for the learners in my care; helping them to believe in their innate potential and beginning to fulfil it.

What advice would you give to your 18-year-old self?

Be brave, trust your instincts and use your voice.

What last made you laugh?

Trevor Noah, a brilliant South African comedian.

What's your ideal weekend?

Brunch, antiquing, afternoon tea, the Sunday papers and not having a schedule.

You are to live out your final days on a desert island...

Who would you take with you and why? (one person only)

My partner of six years. He's a brilliant engineer and would ensure that we survived! And comfortably!

What book would you take and why?

I would take something inspirational, like Rick Warren's ‘Purpose Driven Life'.

Tell us something we would never guess about you?

I spent my early childhood longing to be a boy…in fact, my dream was to be either Huckleberry Finn or Davey Crockett!

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