This week, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on Kelly Wailes, one of our two dynamic Nursery Teachers, whose journey into education has been anything but conventional. From working in marketing and pharmaceuticals to teaching in international schools, Kelly’s story has seen her jet around the world.
Kelly grew up in the northeast of England, but at the age of 12, her family relocated to South Africa. Reflecting on this experience, she shares, “It was just as Mandela was coming out of prison. My dad didn’t even tell me about apartheid before we moved! The schools there were so different, and it was a huge culture shock.” After returning to the UK, Kelly studied at King's College London, earning a degree in Pharmacology—an unusual route for someone who always dreamed of becoming a teacher. "I always wanted to be a teacher when I was younger," Kelly says. "But life had other plans for me at first."
After university, Kelly’s career took her into the world of graduate marketing and sales, where she worked for big names like Walker’s and GlaxoSmithKline. But it wasn’t until she moved to the United States due to her partner relocating for work that her passion for education began to resurface. “I started volunteering at my children’s school in Houston, helping in the Early Years program, and that’s when I realised—this is what I’m meant to do.”
Kelly’s international experiences have been invaluable to her teaching career, having worked in a leading private international school in Texas. “It was an amazing environment,” she recalls, “we had collaborations with Juilliard, MIT, even Apple! The school was so innovative—glass classrooms, movable furniture, and children differentiating their own work. It was all about inquiry and curiosity.
Returning to the UK after a devastating hurricane destroyed their Texas home, Kelly found her way back into education and pursued her teacher training. "I thought, 'If I'm already doing the work, I might as well have the qualification!'" she laughs. Kelly went on to complete her Early Years training and has never looked back.
Kelly’s journey to St Chris was serendipitous. "A friend from Houston, whose children went to St Chris, suggested I look at the school. From the moment I visited, I knew this was the place for me," she says. “The ethos, the focus on the child, the relaxed environment—it was everything I was looking for.”
Since joining St Chris, Kelly has taught across various year groups, from Key Stage 1 to now teaching in the Nursery. “I’ve always loved working with the youngest children,” she explains. “They’re so full of curiosity, and their sense of wonder is just infectious. In the Nursery, every day is different, and it’s such a joy to watch them grow and develop.”
Reflecting on her time at St Chris, Kelly highlights the supportive atmosphere and the school’s unique approach to education. “What I love about St Chris is that it’s not about teaching to pass a test. It’s about teaching for the child. We’re given the flexibility to really cater to each individual’s needs, which is so important.”
Her advice to anyone thinking of working in education? "Be open to learning from others. At St Chris, there’s such a collaborative spirit. If you're unsure about something, you can just ask—and people will always help."
Kelly’s journey is a testament to following your passions, even if the road to get there is winding. We’re incredibly fortunate to have her as part of the St Chris family, where she continues to nurture and inspire the youngest members of our community with her energy, empathy, and endless enthusiasm.
Thank you, Kelly, for bringing your wealth of experience and passion for education to St Chris!