Mr. Owain McNeill – Teacher of English, History, Creative Writing, Critical Thinking, and Business Who I Am I am a qualified teacher of English, History, and Business with over a decade of senior leadership experience in international finance and technology before I transitioned to teaching. I bring real-world experience into the classroom – from boardrooms to classrooms. My Qualifications - PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate in Education) - QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) - MA History – University of Wales, Aberystwyth - BA (Joint Hons) English and History – University of Wales, Aberystwyth I have taught at prestigious schools including: - Stowe School (UK) – one of Britain's leading independent schools - SPGS International School (Chengdu, China) – affiliated with St Paul's Girls' School, London My Background Before teaching, I spent over a decade in senior leadership roles in London's financial and technology sectors, including: - Citibank - HSBC Bank plc - CACEIS Investor Services (part of Crédit Agricole) I also founded my own consultancy, advising hedge funds, global consultancies, and private banks. This background gives me a unique understanding of professional communication, business English, and interview skills. My Approach to Teaching I believe in: - Clarity – making complex ideas simple and accessible - Confidence – helping students find and trust their voice - Practical application – connecting learning to the real world - Enjoyment – making lessons engaging and relevant I teach: - English Language and Literature (GCSE, IGCSE, A Level) - History (KS3, GCSE, IGCSE, A Level) - Creative Writing – poetry, short stories, and developing original voice - Critical Thinking – fallacies, bias, evidence, and debate - Business English and Interview Preparation – for school, university, and careers My Literary Connections I have a deep personal connection to the literary tradition: - Seamus Heaney taught my mother at Queen's University Belfast - C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien taught my grandfather at Oxford University These connections are not just historical – they remind me that literature and learning are living traditions passed down through generations. Fun Facts About Me - I am a published author – I write children's stories. - I recently returned from China – where I taught at SPGS International School in Chengdu for two years. - I am a qualified lifeguard and a rugby union coach. - I am a recipient of the Royal Humane Society award for a lifesaving rescue. Why I Love Teaching I love helping students discover their voice – whether in a poem, a debate, a history essay, or a job interview. I believe every student has something important to say. My job is to help them say it with confidence. How to Reach Me I am always happy to answer questions about my lessons or your child's progress. Please feel free to contact me via the school or platform you are using. Mr. Owain McNeill PGCE, QTS, MA History, BA (Joint Hons) English and History
