Nic Sowerby
Nic Sowerby is the Director of CF School which she founded in 2016 as an after-school programme and has since grown into a successful small school with a new campus that opened in September 2025.
What do you do to ensure that your teachers are motivated and happy at your school?
Whilst a well-equipped, modern classroom is certainly appealing, the true heart of a successful school lies in its people—our staff and the students. Creating a culture where teachers feel valued and are encouraged to reach their full potential is essential in building a successful school. We want to ensure that our teachers remain motivated and passionate about their work, which directly contributes to the success of our students and the entire school community.
What do you do to make sure that pupils have high expectations of their work and themselves?
We all have memories of those amazing teachers from our own school days who made a difference because they empowered us to believe in our potential. Often, the most growth happens during difficult times, and as teachers, it’s our responsibility to model that resilience for our students and to praise the journey, not the outcome.
What is the best piece of advice you would give older students who are about to the leave school?
At our school, we are guided by the motto 'Work Hard and Be Kind.' We believe these values should stay with our students long after they graduate and enter the world. We emphasise the importance of hard work because it lays the foundation for both growth and success. Equally significant is kindness, which the world can always use more of. As Archbishop Desmond Tutu wisely said, "Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world."
What has been the most memorable moment of your career so far?
That’s an easy one to answer—it will be the day we officially open the new CF School for the families who have entrusted us with their children’s education. This milestone represents not only the realisation of a life-time dream but also the opportunity to make a lasting impact on the lives of these children and their families.
Tamsin Deasey-Weinstein
Tamsin Deasey-Weinstein, Director of the University College of the Cayman Islands, Co-chairs the AI Society Steering Committee, has been quoted in Forbes magazine as an AI leader and was recognised by the Cayman Islands’ Family Resource Centre for inspiring women in tech in 2025.
How do you see the future of education in Cayman?
The future of education in Cayman is uniquely ours to shape. With the right investment in skills, infrastructure, and policy, we can build an education system that isn’t just responsive to global trends but sets them.
What can parents do to supplement their child's education in this ever-changing world?
I encourage parents to model lifelong learning. Let your child see you learning something new, adapting, and embracing technology. The most powerful thing you can do is build curiosity in your children. Encourage exploration and make it fun!
What skills do you think we should all learn in today's changing marketplace?
The marketplace has shifted, and AI is changing the game for everyone. We all need to be fluent in the basics including critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and data management. Creativity, emotional intelligence, and adaptability aren’t ‘soft’ skills anymore, they’re essential. The most successful people will be the ones who keep learning.
What is the best piece of advice you would give older students who are about to leave university?
Your degree is the starting point, not the finish line. Never stop being curious, keep learning, and remember that you can never know too much. With every global disruption there’s an opportunity to make your own life better.
Where would you expect UCCI to be in five years and why?
In five years, I see UCCI as a regional hub for online learning, digital skills development, and sustainability education. The future of UCCI is tech-forward, and solutions-oriented. We want to make an impact, not just in classrooms, but in communities. Our goal is to be part of the solution, ensuring that Caymanians aren’t just earning qualifications, they’re building futures.
David Connolly II
David Conolly II is Subject Leader in Humanities and teaches History at John Gray High school where he has the privilege of teaching and promoting appreciation for Caymanian heritage.
How do you see the future of education in Cayman?
Technology and AI will certainly play a bigger role, but I believe we will also see a stronger emphasis on hands-on, project-based learning where students actively engage with what they're learning rather than passively absorbing information.
What can parents do to supplement their child's education in this ever-changing world?
Model good habits by teaching them both digital and financial literacy. Involve your child in daily tasks, travel experiences, and community service. These build real-world understanding and empathy. I know that some parents have reservations about having their child tested for learning challenges, but I would strongly recommend that they do. The more teachers know about their students, the better we can cater to their learning needs. Finally, stay connected to your child’s school life. Monitor their progress, talk about what they’re learning, and reinforce those lessons at home.
What is the best piece of advice you would give older students who are about to leave school?
Be open to different training and development opportunities. Embrace the adventure and the learning that comes with new experiences. Take time to understand who you are, set high expectations for yourself, and never stop striving for better. Work hard, stay focused on your goals, and above all, maintain strong values and integrity. Success isn’t always a straight path, but with effort and character, you’ll find your way.
If there was one person you could meet and bring to your school, who would it be and why?
I would invite one of the young Caymanians currently working on the restoration of the Fair Weather, a Caymanian-built schooner undergoing repairs in the UK. Their experience in a rare and culturally significant field would resonate with our students, especially because they are close in age and can serve as relatable role models.
Isaac Woods
Isaac Woods teaches English and is a House Co-ordinator at Cayman Prep High School.
What can parents do to supplement their child's education in this ever-changing world?
It’s crucial that students read and read broadly. They should also keep up to date with global news and current affairs. A short amount of time spent reading is such an effective way of enhancing your child’s learning.
What skills do you think we should all learn in today's changing marketplace?
How to manage and invest your money wisely!
What can be done to ensure that everyone is motivated and happy at school?
It is crucial to have a balance. Yes, work hard and aim for the stars, but also find interests and hobbies outside of the academic sphere. We are so lucky that Grand Cayman has an incredibly fitness-focussed population, and I think this is integral to everybody’s wellbeing, whether teacher or student. Let me know if you want to challenge me to a game of pickleball!
What do you do to make sure that pupils have high expectations of their work and themselves?
I always speak to my students about initiative. While we, as teachers, will always guide students and support them to achieve their academic goals, often the students who produce the highest quality work are the ones who take it upon themselves to read around subjects and immerse themselves in texts, contexts and critical essays.
What is the best piece of advice you would give older students who are about to leave school?
The world is your oyster. I think it is important to have goals and aim to achieve them, but it is also your best possible time to experiment and try new things. If you find yourself disliking something you thought you would love, don’t be fearful to adapt.
