A CONNECTION MADE AT OXFORD

Libby and Max first met at Oxford while training to become teachers, but it wasn’t until they found themselves in the same school for their PGCE placement that their story truly began. Encompassing love, learning and lasting connections, we spoke with them this Valentine’s Day to learn more about their journey.

Can you tell us about the moment you first met at Oxford?

We were on a tour around Keble College together, although we didn’t actually talk, just a nod hello! Then we were placed at our first school together, so we met with our group in the Department of Education in Norham Gardens, set up a WhatsApp group, and the rest is history.

What made Keble Chapel the perfect place for your wedding? 

Credit: Jame & Julianne Photography

It is a beautiful setting where we spent some of our best memories during our degrees. We sat together in the chapel at matriculation, ate strawberries on the lawn at the summer garden party, and danced all night at the Keble Ball.

How has staying connected with Oxford or fellow alumni been part of your journey together?

We still work with people that we did our PGCE with. Many people have stayed in Oxfordshire schools, so we often see them and share our resources. Max also works closely with the Geography PGCE students, supporting their development and delivering sessions. It is one of his favourite parts of the job! We also work at the school Professor Irene Tracey attended, so enjoy this Oxford connection.

Libby, with a background in chemistry, and Max, in geography, how have your studies shaped your careers?

Well, they are our careers! We spend our days helping students see why we chose to study these subjects and how they can do the same. While we now teach less since becoming assistant headteachers, our subjects are the core of how we interact with and motivate students.

What are your next steps or adventures?

We are currently just enjoying married life. We have recently taken a step up in our careers, so are adjusting to the changes and focusing on making sure our new house is slowly being renovated. We are also raising our two-year-old cocker spaniel, Winnie, and working on her not pulling on the lead!

What does Oxford mean to you?

Oxford has always been Max’s home, but now it is our home and the place we have settled as a family. Many of our wedding photographs were captured at iconic spots in Oxford, such as the Radcliffe Camera and Bridge of Sighs. These now decorate our home, and we see them every day and smile.