Five minutes with... Mr Ryan Thomas, SENDCo and Head of Learning Support at King's Ely Senior from September 2024

Mr Ryan Thomas is our new SENDCo and Head of Learning Support at King's Ely Senior.

As we do with all new staff joiners, we fired our 'Five Minutes With...' questions at Mr Thomas as a fun way for you all to get to know him a little better. Enjoy!

Your full name:

Ryan Thomas

Where did you grow up?

A small village just outside Lincoln. 

Education:

I studied History at York St John University. 

Your previous role and place of work:

Assistant Principal (DSL and SENDCo) at Beck Row Academy.

What are you most looking forward to about your new role and working at King’s Ely?

Getting to know the amazing community of pupils, staff and parents, and working in this beautiful environment. I am looking forward to making the next level of change to all the young people I work with.

What did you want to be when you were growing up?

A footballer. 

Hobbies/interests outside of school:

Travelling and visiting new places with my family, long distance running, and football – or any sport really! 

Any pets?

None.

What is your favourite meal/food?

Ribs, chips, and coleslaw. 

If you could have a superpower, what would it be?

Teleportation – I am not a fan of waiting.

Who is your hero?

Very cliché, but my mum! 

What is your proudest accomplishment?

Naturally, I would say having two amazing girls, but away from family and in recent time, I would say this year when I ran two marathons in two weeks and raised enough money to send every pupil in my previous school to the seaside for the day, including Sealife entry, chips, ice cream, coach travel, and a gift! 

What was the last book you read?

'Cilka’s Journey' by Heather Morris.

What song are you most likely to sing at a karaoke?

Queen – 'Don’t Stop Me Now' – but not before 10pm.

What is your favourite film?

So many to choose from, but I would probably go for 'Split'. 

Do you have any phobias or fears?

Heights. 

If you could share a meal with any four individuals, living or dead, who would they be?

Barack Obama, Nelson Mandela, Jimmy Greaves, and Sir David Attenborough. 

Name three things you would want with you if stranded on a desert island for a week:

A book, a hammock, and a large supply of unnamed drinks.