We were thrilled to meet Mr Frank Howell, Head of Science at Belmont, for this week’s Meet the Community series! 🧪🔬

With Science and STEAM Week coming up soon, we thought it was the perfect time to sit down with Mr Howell and learn more about his passion for science and his role at Belmont.

How long have you worked at the school?

I started working at Belmont September 2019, so about 5 years, although I still feel like a newbie.

Could you shed light on the responsibilities of your role?

As HOD of Science I work alongside my fantastic science department (Upper school and Lower school), to ensure that the pupils have access to a wide range of teaching styles and resources so we can deliver the best available learning experience for the pupils. Hopefully catching them early and fostering a fascination and love of science that they can carry on with as they move on through the school.

Share your favourite aspect of being part of our school.

The pupils are brilliant and bring their enjoyment of the school with them into my classes. Whilst the friendly and enthusiastic staff make for a great team effort and can-do spirit in Belmont. Everyone helps each other to get the best end results for the pupils.

The lunch isn’t too bad either.

Any invaluable advice for our pupils to make the most of their time here?

Take every opportunity offered to you. The school provides a wide range of clubs and experiences for you to try out. Who knows it may become a lifelong passion.

What is your top book and film recommendations for our pupils, and why?

My top book:

My favourite book to read as child was the Hobbit by JRR Tolkien. The fantasy element and mythical creatures allowed me to use my imagination and visualise different worlds and creatures. Which in turn influenced me a great deal in my hobbies and interests at the time (many of which remain with me).

My film recommendation:

My film recommendation would be Star Wars: A new Hope. The first film which came out in the 70’s. It was face paced and unlike anything else I had seen before, reimagining the classical fairy tales of good and evil, heroes and villains. I still watch it every year to remind me of why I like it so much.

An inspirational quote that resonates with you and the motivation it brings.

Theres a Scandinavian saying

“Theres no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing”

I interpret this as “all challenges can be met and resolved if you are prepared for them”

Lastly, can you tell us something that we might not know about you?

I played for Norway in the opening qualifying rugby game for the 2003 Rugby World cup in September 2000.

I went on to gain a further 8 caps for my country before returning to the UK.