Phillip Burnell

Phillip Burnell

Head of Geography and ESS | Head of Educational Excursions

Phillip worked in schools across Shanghai for nine years before joining the Wellington Community. During this time, he taught and coordinated IGCSE and IB curriculums related to the earth sciences. He has also been involved with the teaching and development of business studies, economics, global perspectives, IGCSE courses and STEAM programmes. Phil enjoys spending time outdoors and he has shared this by leading expeditions and educational trips around the world, most notably from Shanghai to Switzerland, Tanzania and Thailand. Phil has also maintained roles as both head of year and ECA coordinator, being award the Educational Leadership Award by the Huacao town Government, Shanghai in 2019.

Phil completed his master’s degree in volcanology and geological hazards at Lancaster University in 2012. Prior to this he graduated from Keele University in 2011 with a bachelor’s degree in geology with physical geography. After completing his PGCE, he has continued his professional development in education and gained a variety of certifications in the IGCSE and IB curriculum.

He has been an avid badminton player since he was young, taking part in occasional competitions and team events. Staying true to his roots, he enjoys being outdoors, cycling, orienteering and hiking whenever he can. When indoors, he likes to relax with the occasional gaming session, particularly those that promote creative city building challenges.