Andrew Lambie’s journey to becoming Head of Science at St Chris is one of resilience, adaptability, and a profound dedication to his craft. Reflecting on his life before teaching, Andrew spoke about how he, fresh out of the University of Cambridge, went to Africa where he had grown up; "it's just like going home for me", he said. Just 23 at the time, Andrew immersed himself in the study of Thomson’s Gazelles for a few weeks. He later returned to Africa as part of the Young Europe Africa expedition where he worked as the mechanic. This expedition took 6 months of travelling and working throughout the whole of Africa. These experiences not only broadened his horizons but also instilled in him a deep appreciation for the natural world and the resourcefulness required to work in challenging environments.

Andrew shares vivid memories of his time volunteering in Romania in the 1990s, where he worked under "harsh conditions" that left a lasting impact following Ceaucescu's downfall (during which time he was sailing across the Atlantic unaware of the political changes happening in Eastern Europe). Initially a project to deliver a playground to an orphanage, Andrew found himself supporting the center in many other ways; fixing sewage works, building and repairing parts of the orphanage, all the while talking to and empathising with its residents. "The water was incredibly polluted, the food scarce, and everything was gray. You’d go to a shop, and if you were lucky, there’d be bread, eggs, and maybe one type of meat," he recalls.

The stark contrast between these settings and returning to the UK was jarring. "It got me," Andrew admits. "It was incredibly challenging... the opulence, the choice back here—it was horrid in a way." Yet even in such adversity, he found moments of camaraderie, making "some of my strongest friends" and returning years later with charitible connections and a wealth of skills to help him support struggling global communtities.

Thompson's Gazelles by Kevin Allen Photography. Source: https://www.kevinpepperphotography.com/blog/2018/4/23/the-thomsons-gazelle

A Change of Direction

Initially a decorator and house renovator, Andrew realised his passions lay elsewhere and decided to pursue teaching after working with young people throughout his global expeditions - something he had never previously considered.

However, his first application to teacher training was unsuccessful.

Undeterred, he spent a year volunteering in schools, determined to prove his commitment. "It didn’t put me off, so that was a positive sign that I’d made the right decision."

With support from his late brother, Andrew began training as a biology teacher but quickly found himself embracing chemistry instead when a teaching opening appeared at a state school in Sandy. "That was the hardest year academically in my life," he laughs. "I had to learn the structure of the atom from scratch. I’d forgotten everything!" This challenge shaped his approach to teaching. "It really does help—because I found ways of remembering it, and I share those with the students."

Andrew Lambie's career has taken him all over the world; the above is where our story takes place.

Finding a Home at St Chris

Andrew’s teaching journey included roles in state schools and a brief stint at St Edmund’s College before he joined St Chris as a teacher of Science, later becoming the Head of Science. He immediately felt at home in the school’s unique environment, where mutual respect between staff and students is paramount. "There’s no hierarchy here, no big divide," Andrew explains. "You communicate honestly and genuinely, and there’s no lack of respect because of it."

He also values the freedom he and his team have in their teaching. "I encourage everyone to teach in their own style. We all teach differently, and the students benefit from that because, in life, they’ll have to work with all sorts of people."

Fun fact: Andrew's famous tie-dye lab coat was made by a former student from St Edmund's College!

A Legacy of Enthusiasm

Anyone who's met him will tell you this: Andrew’s passion for science is infectious, and his dedication to sharing it with students is absolutely evident.

From bringing in his Morris Minor for a car mechanics Thursday Opp to celebrating St Chris’s ability to offer diverse subject combinations, Andrew is proud of the school’s child-centered approach. "We’re a school that’s shaped around the child, not the other way around," he says. "And that’s why our students thrive."

Reflecting on his time as Head of Science, Andrew is most proud of his team. "I’ve got the most brilliant team, and I try to look after them. I think that’s really important in management—treating people well and valuing their work."

For Andrew, teaching at St Chris is more than a job; it’s a calling. "I love what I’m doing completely. It’s been difficult at times, but the relationship between staff and students here is fantastic, and the environment allows everyone to be their best selves."

Andrew was keen to impart some wisdom on our readers and, indeed, all St Chris students. "Don't say no - take opportunities when they arise. Don't travel for travelling's sake. Find a purpose and volunteer."