Sarah Ogilvie
Author, Educator (and Professional Gardener)
As a former primary school teacher and mathematics subject leader, I passionately believe that worthwhile learning comes from a starting point of curiosity and courage.
I now combine my interest in learning styles, my love of teaching and obsession with plants through writing, children’s workshops, and my new career as a professional gardener.
I developed an interest in the concept of Growth Mindsets following an in-depth study I carried out as part of a specialised and additional qualification in teaching mathematics to struggling learners. As a result of this study, I led a change in my last school where children were seated in mixed achieving groups and were able to choose their own level of maths tasks. The positive difference in the confidence and achievements of all children (yes, even those higher achievers!) was immense. With this significant change, my view of myself as a learner also took a leap in an unexpected direction, hence ‘Author, Educator and Professional Gardener’!
My rhyming books, ‘101’, ‘Pearl Proves a Point’, and ‘Taking The Plunge’ turn true classroom stories into engaging and relatable mini adventures for children aged 8-11 years. All along, I wanted the illustrations to have a graphic novel feel to appeal to middle-grade readers, and illustrator Helen Desai, has proved to be perfect person to collaborate with!
Teaching Qualifications:
BSc; PGCE; Adv Dip - Overcoming Barriers in Learning Mathematics
Helen Desai
Illustrator and Designer
(& graphic novel addict)
I’d always known I’d be an artist — whether sketching fashion outfits, reworking vintage finds or creating photo shoots with my huge collection of Sindy dolls!
After studying Fashion Illustration at Art College, I fell into the world of women's magazines, eventually becoming Art Director at YOU magazine.
Years later, my life took an unexpected turn, and I found solace in drawing. My rescue dog Rupert and my kitsch-filled home with its treasured collections, became my go to subjects. Those sketches sparked a new direction and led to my debut illustrated comic book - a heartfelt story of love, loss and humour seen through Rupert’s eyes.
Today my work is inspired by childhood memories and the everyday, with a playful touch of horror and the macabre.
I’m lucky to collaborate with the brilliant author Sarah Ogilvie, whose belief in my work has helped me turn my illustration dreams into a reality. Collaborating on her books and being her illustrator
'in residence' has been pure joy and a whole load of fun!
Five of Sarah’s favourite books about maths are featured on the Shepherd website - an indie platform built for readers by readers. Take a look!