People of Nobel Algarve: Michele Grainger

Michelle Grainger joined over 4 years ago now, and is the Deputy Head of Primary and Curriculum Lead at Nobel Algarve Almancil. Since leaving the UK in 2008, she has taught in Greece, Malaysia, and Qatar before joining Nobel Algarve. She and her husband (also a teacher at our school) are passionate amateur endurance athletes and board sports enthusiasts – sharing this enthusiasm with students, by establishing sports clubs at the schools they have worked at.

 

Where did you grow up, and what was it like there?

I grew up in the Southwest of England. We lived close to the countryside, and I loved camping and playing outside. This has not changed!

 

What’s a tradition your family had while growing up that you still cherish?

Christmas was always an important family time, and I would spend it with ‘hundreds’ of my father’s family. Although my family is now smaller, Christmas is still my favourite time of year.

 

What’s your all-time favourite book, movie, or TV show?

My students may be shocked to hear this, but as a young child I was a reluctant reader. Until, I read the book, Danny the Champion of The World and Goodnight, Mister Tom at aged 10.  I love reading these with and to the students in my class.

 

What’s a favourite memory from your childhood?

My favourite memories from childhood are from family holidays abroad. This sparked my desire for travel and adventure.

 

How did you become interested in working in education?

After university, I was Marketing Manager for Duchy College in Cornwall. There, I realised that I loved working with and supporting the students more than being in an office. Therefore, I decided to complete my postgraduate in teaching, I am so glad that I did!

 

Tell us about your greatest achievement

Apart from my wonderful daughter Lily, my greatest achievements are completing many different endurance events. I have completed 5 Ironman 70.3 and 5 marathons to date and I’m looking forward to more in 2025.

 

What is your steepest learning curve?

It is okay to make mistakes, and you cannot please everyone. 

 

How do you remain curious?

I am naturally curious; I want to know more about everything. Life is brilliant!

 

What motivates you to keep going during challenging times?

My family.

 

Who is someone in your life who has had a significant influence on who you are today?

My husband, Chris, after 21 years he has the most integrity of anyone I have met. And is always so chilled under pressure.   

 

What's the best piece of advice you've ever received?

Your best is always good enough.

 

What would you like the community of Nobel to know about you?

I wasn’t always so sensible.

 

What’s something you hope to accomplish in the next five years?

To be still fit and healthy and continue to love my job!