Matt is our new Curriculum Lead of Music at the Cambridge School. He began teaching after spending five years recording and editing sound for films, following his degree in Sound Design Technology, and joined us in March.
Previously, Matt worked in a mainstream further education college as a music teacher, where his favourite class to teach was Level 1 Music Production. He knew he wanted to specialise in teaching young people with complex needs, which is how he found In Toto Ed!
Settling into the role, Matt enjoys that In Toto Ed teaches students in small groups, or one-to-one. “As a teacher I can make the lessons more personal and focused on what the students want to learn.” This reinforces the In Toto Ed ethos of putting students and their interests and goals first, and developing a learning path around them.
Matt would advise his 16-year-old self to say yes to more opportunities!
“Even though it can be overwhelming at times or the thought of trying something new can make you nervous or anxious, by embracing opportunities it leads to more doors being opened for you. This is especially important in the creative industry where a large part of who you know can go a long way.”
We’re very glad Matt said yes to the opportunity to work with us - even if he doesn’t like our coffee machine, which he describes as “requiring a lot of science.” We have tea bags as well, Matt!
Ever the optimist, one of Matt’s favourite quotes is by Del Boy from Only Fools and Horses; “This time next year, we’ll be millionaires!” Failing that, he sees himself continuing to teach music for at least the next five years.
Outside of work, Matt extends his passion for music by playing guitar, recording and collecting records, and attending gigs, mainly blues, soul, and RnB. He also enjoys gaming and hiking.
Matt’s personal philosophy is inspired by Bob Marley’s song Trenchtown Rock and specifically the line “One good thing about music, when it hits you feel no pain”.
“For me this can be applied to any aspect of life not just music. Whatever path you choose and wherever you choose to put your time and energy you should enjoy it otherwise it’s not worth it.”
Well said Matt!
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