Q&A with James Mountjoy

Over the course of my teaching career so far, I have been fortunate to meet so many fantastic students, some of whom have gone on to achieve remarkable things in their chosen paths. Working at NSCG has also given me the incredible opportunity to travel the world and share some truly memorable experiences with our college students – experiences I’m very grateful for. These moments have not only enriched my teaching but also reinforced my passion for supporting and inspiring learners to reach their full potential.

I chose to enter the teaching profession because I wanted to share the experiences I’ve gained from traveling the world and, in doing so, inspire the students who come through the college. It’s incredibly rewarding to see students engage with new perspectives and feel motivated to explore opportunities themselves – knowing that my own journey can spark their curiosity and ambition makes teaching truly meaningful to me.

The Rugby Academy at NSCG gives the opportunity to students of all rugby playing ability. We have got players that play for many of the surrounding clubs in Staffordshire. We compete against some well-known colleges within the West Midlands and have also competed for the last three years at the National Championships, competing against the best colleges from each region of the UK. 

Rugby

I have always had a strong interest in a variety of sports, but growing up in Wales, I was naturally surrounded by rugby. I began playing around the age of eight or nine and have remained actively involved in the sport ever since.

One of the things I love most about rugby union is how inclusive it is. It doesn’t matter what shape or size you are – there’s a place for everyone on the pitch. Whether you’re big, small, fast, or powerful, every role is important and valued, and that’s what makes the sport so special.

Rugby union officially became a professional sport in 1995.

I don’t have one specific sporting icon, but I find inspiration in the stories of individuals who have achieved extraordinary things despite being told it was impossible. Their determination, resilience, and ability to overcome challenges motivate me both personally and professionally, reminding me of the importance of perseverance and belief in one’s own potential.

There have been many memorable moments during my time as rugby coach at NSCG, but one experience in particular stands out: the tour to Cardiff in 2025. During the trip, we had the opportunity to train on the pitch at the Cardiff Arms Park, tour the Principality Stadium, and compete against SGS College in Bristol. The match against SGS was hard-fought, but securing victory with the final kick of the game was an incredible experience – one that remains a highlight of my coaching career.

What I enjoy most about my role is the variety it offers. Each day brings new people to meet, challenges to tackle, and opportunities to embrace, which keeps my work both engaging and stimulating.

What I believe sets NSCG apart from other colleges is the exceptional quality of the people who work here. From lecturers and managers to support staff, everyone demonstrates expertise in their roles and a shared commitment to ensuring that students have a memorable and productive experience during their time at college.

The best advice I would give to a new student starting at NSCG is to embrace every opportunity and challenge yourself to step outside of your comfort zone. Stay curious, keep an open mind, and approach learning with a willingness to grow – this mind-set will help you make the most of your time at college and create experiences that are both rewarding and memorable.