Tim Murphy is a global citizen. Having lived in Beijing just over two months, The Canada native comes to our city after teaching in both South Korea and the United Arab Emirates. Murphy is now a Grade 4 homeroom teacher at the Canadian International School of Beijing (CISB) where his wife is also a teacher. “I wanted to experience another adventurous home and have always been intrigued by the size and depth of Chinese culture. I arrived at CISB after hearing very great things about the staff and policies of the school from my wife,” he shares. We sit down with Murphy to learn more about the Beijing newbie.
What’s was your favorite subject when you were a student?
My favorite subject was science as an elementary student. I really enjoyed learning about the world around me and how it worked. The science fair was the highlight of my year in every grade.
What did you want to be when you were a kid?
I wanted to be a fireman for a long time as a youngster. I always liked the idea of rescuing people and their homes from fire.
How would you describe your teaching style?
I give my students the tools to explore the grade’s content through modeling and guide them as they try to master the content working at their own individual pace.
What was your favorite book growing up? What are you currently reading? My favorite book as a young adult was The Alchemist. I’m currently reading a science fiction book by Isac Asimov called Foundation and Empire.
How do you like to relax on the weekends?
I like to go exploring in the new parts of cities or get out into nature when the weather is cooperating.
Where do you go on holiday?
I like to visit places that are very different from Canada and generally lean towards places where the weather is warmer. When on vacation I like to see off the beaten track type cultural sights.
Tell us something most people don’t know about you.
Most people don’t know that I played rugby for five years in Canada before I went to university.
What’s currently on your playlist?
I’m currently listening to Trampled by Turtles, a bluegrass band.
What do you find most rewarding about teaching?
The part about teaching that constantly warms my heart is the human interaction with all of the great students I’ve come across. No matter the country, the race or the language, the people that have been in my class have always surprised me with their energy and enthusiasm to learn from me. I really feel lucky to have been able to teach such a diverse and wide range of people from around the world. It’s something the vast majority of teachers cannot say.
