Staff
We love, and are passionate about, teaching, and are dedicated to getting the best out of our students while they are at Abbey College Manchester. The aim is to spark an enthusiasm for learning for them that will last for life.
Heads of Department and teachers with specialist subject knowledge support the pastoral team to provide the academic rigour required for success.
Liz Elam
Principal
Joining Abbey College Manchester in 1999, Liz was responsible for the academic and personal development of our sixth form. She recently was appointed Principal as well as maintaining some of her teaching responsibilities in Geography. Her degree in Geography is from Manchester University and she also is an examiner for a major exam board as well as author of an AS revision guide. In her spare time Liz enjoys travelling and is also a lead singer in a rock band.
Alex Watts
Director of Studies
Having worked at one of our sister colleges in Birmingham as Head of Chemistry, Alex joined Abbey College Manchester in 1997. He gained his degree at Exeter and completed a PhD at Bath. In 2003 Alex was appointed Director of Studies and oversees the academic monitoring of the college.
Nigel Walker
Head of One Year and UCAS / Careers
Nigel joined Abbey College Manchester in September 1999 to teach Government and Politics, History and Sociology. A graduate from the University of Leeds, he also provides individual help and advice to students on completing of applications for entry onto all university courses, including the most competitive.
Pat McQuade
Head of Sixth Form and Pastoral Care
Pat gained her degree at the University of Reading and also has a Diploma in Vocational Guidance. After working in several schools, she joined the college two years ago to teach English Language and Literature on both GCSE and A Level programmes. Although she is now Head of Sixth Form, Pat maintains much of her teaching responsibilities.
Gary Brady
Head of GCSE
Since joining Abbey College Manchester in 1998, Gary has progressed from teaching Statistics and Pure Maths, to being Assistant Head of GCSE, to finally becoming Head of GCSE four years ago. He is responsible for the development of our GCSE curriculum and oversees the progress of these students.