This week our Staff Snapshot Interview is with Ms Coatz, our Deputy Head.
What inspired you to be a teacher?
I was quite fixated on another profession but then I met a friend who was a teacher and I had an epiphany. It was the best decision I ever made.
Tell us about your path into teaching:
I started training to be a bank manager when I first left school and very soon realised how terrible I would be at that! After two years I went to university to study Drama and Education. After teaching for a while I then devoted some time to performing and became involved in community theatre and theatre-in-education. I did some work as a supporting artist (an extra) which was fun, especially being on set in Eastenders. I also did a pantomime tour of Aladdin where I played Widow Twanky which was certainly an unforgettable experience. After a few years I was happy to return to the classroom.
What do you love most about teaching?
I love being able to engage children and develop their love of learning, whatever age they are. Schools are a special place to work and no two days are ever the same.
What were you like at school?
I was a good girl and worked hard, but I was really shy and would never put my hand up to answer a question even though I liked being on the stage. Apparently, my mum once took me to the doctors because I preferred to stay in and read rather than go out to play.
When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I always wanted to be an actor and would put on shows for my family, I even gave myself a stage name... no I’m not going to tell you what it was.
What’s the funniest moment you’ve had in school?
Every day has a funny moment. Seeing the faces of the staff and parents when I sang the Rocky Theme tune over the microphone at sports day was certainly a memorable one.
What’s the most important lesson you can teach?
To respect each other, to respect difference; this underpins all values in my opinion.
What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?
My unexpected year of leading the School through a pandemic as Head of MHS.
What are you most excited about at Marlborough House this term/year?
I am really excited to see the new Art and DT building start to take shape, I know it is going to be amazing.
What makes Marlborough House such a special place to be?
Easy, the children. Oh, and the sticky toffee pudding/banoffe pie/cream scones of course.
Quick-fire questions:
School House: none/all – I prefer to cheer them all on
Years at MHS: 9
Club: Drama
Unusual fact: When I was 10 I was in an advert on TV for Ovaltine
Highlight of my day: My drive into school, I will never get bored of its beauty.
The book I am reading: Education by Tara Westover
Most memorable moment at MHS: The first time I stood on the Prize Giving stage in my academic gown, ready to lead the proceedings.