Kat Rodrigues- Lead Teacher

Kat Rodrigues- Lead Teacher

Kat has always loved all things creative and enjoyed studying dance and drama from the age of four, at Dance and Stage schools within Leicester and Leicestershire, successfully taking part in many festivals, shows and competitions. Kat also enjoyed playing many different sports particularly team sports, playing netball, volleyball and swimming. Kat was a talented competitive swimmer from aged 8 to 18 years and became a team manager and coach at aged 14 for her local swimming club.

Age 16 Kat qualified as a swimming instructor, started working for her local council teaching swimming lessons and running play schemes. In addition to coaching for her swimming club she was also employed as coach for Leicester Disabled swimming club. Kat went on to study at university and gained a Bachelor of Arts degree in 3D Design Wood, Metal and Plastic. She later went back to gain a Postgraduate Certificate in Education specialising in secondary Art and Design.

Kat has over six years experience as a classroom teacher specialising in a wide range of art, design and technology subjects, including, resistant materials, textiles and graphics. She also teaches dance, and (SEND) Special Educational Needs & Disability particularly supporting dyslexic students on a one-to-one basis. Kat is currently enjoying working as a supply teacher to gain extra experience in primary schools, secondary schools and colleges including academies, mainstream and special needs schools.

Kat was diagnosed with Dyslexia aged 17 and recently with Dyspraxia. As a disabled teacher from an ethnic minority, Kat feels that she is a positive role model for all of her students and has always had to work hard and ask for support in order to be able to do her job to the best of her ability.

As the lead teacher of Iliffe Arts, Kat’s aim is to guide and support our team of Expressive Arts tutors to encourage and empower children, young people and adults, particularly those with additional needs. At the same time to have lots of fun and enjoyment; to learn new skills, to make a real difference to their self-esteem and future achievements.