Ebony Kempster

What does your job involve day to day?

As Head of Religious Studies, I lead a team of dedicated RE teachers and have responsibility for students’ progress from Years 7–13. My day-to-day role includes teaching, supporting colleagues, monitoring achievement, and creating strategies to improve outcomes. I also oversee the development of an ambitious and engaging curriculum that encourages students to think critically about religious, philosophical, and ethical issues. Alongside academic success, I work with my team to create a positive classroom culture where students develop important values such as empathy, respect, and understanding, preparing them to engage thoughtfully with a diverse and complex world.

How did your degree help prepare you for the role?

My degree provided me with the strong subject knowledge needed to teach my subject with confidence and accuracy. Through studying theology and religious studies, I developed the ability to critically analyse complex ideas, evaluate different viewpoints, and communicate arguments clearly, all of which are essential skills in the classroom. My dissertation, which explored representations of Islam in the media, helped me develop a deeper understanding of how religion is portrayed in society and strengthened my ability to approach sensitive issues with balance and nuance. This experience has been particularly valuable in helping students engage thoughtfully with contemporary issues and challenge misconceptions. Beyond subject knowledge, my time at university helped me develop a range of transferable skills, including research, public speaking, teamwork, and empathy. Supportive lecturers also encouraged me to think independently, ask challenging questions, and consider perspectives different from my own. These experiences continue to shape my approach as a teacher and leader. 

What do you enjoy most about your current job?

What I enjoy most about my role is the opportunity to help young people learn, grow and develop their understanding of the world around them. Religious studies encourages students to engage with big questions, and it is incredibly rewarding to see them grow in confidence as they explore and discuss complex issues. I also enjoy working alongside colleagues to continually improve teaching and learning, ensuring that students receive the best possible educational experience both inside and outside the classroom.

What was the most important thing you learned during your time at TRS?

One of the most important things I learned during my time at TRS was the value of continuous learning. My degree taught me that reading widely and engaging with different ideas are key to both personal and professional success. Studying theology and religious studies encouraged me to look beyond simple answers, think critically, and appreciate a range of perspectives.

Tell us about your plans for the future. 

In the future, I hope to progress into senior leadership, with a particular interest in curriculum development and whole-school improvement. I am passionate about creating educational experiences that enable young people to flourish. Longer term, I am interested in consultancy or supporting curriculum development across a multi-academy trust, helping to shape teaching and learning on a broader scale and sharing effective practice to benefit students and staff across multiple schools.