Staff Testimonies

Head of Performing Arts and Form Tutor
Mr Marshall
I first joined Oaklands as an ECT. Looking back, I couldn’t have asked for a better place to start my career. The support I have had during my time at Oaklands has been incredible. Because of that trust, moving from a new teacher to Head of Performing Arts has been a supportive journey rather than a scary leap. It’s been amazing to grow into a role where I can now champion the creative talents of our students.
What really makes this school different, though, is the atmosphere. The Catholic ethos isn’t just something written on a wall, it’s how we actually treat each other. It’s a genuinely warm, friendly place to work. The pastoral support is hugely important here, we look out for the students, but we really look out for each other, too. Whether it’s a busy exam period or a personal issue, you know your colleagues have got your back.
If you are looking for a school where you can progress your career, but still feel part of a close-knit, supportive family, I’d definitely recommend joining us.
Current Vacancies
Art and Photography Teacher and Form Tutor
Miss Czoch
I am an Art and Photography Teacher at Oaklands, and I joined the team in September 2023.
I am a former student of Oaklands and left with some great memories and good education which led me to study Fashion Photography at University. After completing my degree, I trained as a teacher and began my journey.
Before teaching Art and Photography, I spent summers and holidays working on HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) programmes, supporting young people and families through creative and engaging activities. I also worked as a Spanish tutor, giving mentor sessions to GCSE students who needed extra support. Oaklands allowed me to do this, which helped inspire me to get into teaching. I have continued to teach Spanish at Oaklands.
Oaklands is a school that celebrates individuality and creativity, giving every student the chance to discover and develop their unique talents. As an Art and Photography teacher, my passion is to inspire young people to see the world through an artist’s lens, encouraging them to explore ideas, experiment with techniques, and express themselves with confidence and originality.
I love collaborating within my department, we share ideas and create exciting opportunities for our students. I’m fortunate to work alongside incredible role models whose experience and creativity inspire me every day and help me grow as an educator.
For me, teaching art is about more than skills, it’s about nurturing imagination, resilience, and self-belief. If you’re passionate about education, Oaklands is a place where you can thrive and make a real difference.
Current Vacancies
RE Teacher and Lead Tutor for Year 8
Megan Campbell

I am a Teacher of Religious Education (RE) at Oaklands. I joined the team in September 2017.

I am a former student of Oaklands and I left the Sixth Form here with good A-levels and went straight to Chichester University to study Theology and Religious Studies. I remained at Chichester to complete my PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate in Education) and then I landed an interview here!

I have had a few jobs before I started Teaching, including working in a Michelin Star restaurant, a café and retail. I also worked some summers at Goodwood. I have been a continuous volunteer at my church in the youth and children’s ministries.

I recently gained the position of Lead Tutor, I assist the Head of Year with a range of pastoral and administration matters to support the progress of our Year 8 students.

Oaklands is a distinctive school; it treats students, as young people with unique gifts and talents. We recognise they have individual needs and we work hard to support them to be the best possible version of themselves.

The first year in teaching is challenging , but I received fantastic support from my mentor and the department; I constantly worked towards the finish line. Everybody here is treated equally and is given the same respect, whether you are a Teacher, Learning Support Assistant or a Cleaner – we are all one body!

Teaching is a definitely a vocation and I think if it’s the career for you Oaklands will definitely bring you through it!

Current Vacancies
IT Network Manager
Nicolle Pinchen

I joined Oakands in April 2019 as an Apprentice IT Technician. I work closely alongside the Technical Manager and our small team of technicians to help solve and support issues around the school. My work is wide and varied from preparing the IT suites ready for lessons, to managing the ticket fault reporting system. No two days are the same at Oaklands, which keeps the role both interesting and exciting. I have a background in the music Industry, mainly the business and promotion side. I studied a BTEC Diploma in Music Technology at South Downs College in 2010, then moving onto completing a Music Business and Promotion degree at Southampton Solent University. Eighteen months after finishing University, I decided to pursue a career in IT, this has always been a strong passion of mine. There is a strong link between my degree experience and some of the work here at Oaklands. The support at Oaklands has made me realise that I could have a career in this area. The apprenticeship scheme at Oaklands enabled me to learn on the job and gain another qualification. I undertook remote online training at home for 5 days every 5/6 weeks delivered via an assessor at Highbury College. As well as this I have been trained by my Line Manager on different systems and hardware’s around the school.

I am proud that I have passed all my exams as part of my apprenticeship training to a high standard.
I have recently undertaken a management apprenticeship in Level 4 Network Engineering, alongside my day-to-day role and obtained a Distinction level grade.

For me, the best thing about working here is the community. To be able to work in a place that is accepting and with colleagues who are kind and go the extra mile to help each other. There is a strong feeling of community
spirit. If you are thinking of a career in Oaklands I would say ‘Apply’! It is the best career choice I have ever
made and I could not be happier. Oaklands is a fantastic place to work with a lot to offer!

Current Vacancies