What inspired you to be a teacher?

My own children. Reading and playing with my boys when they were pre-school age was so rewarding that it opened my eyes to a whole new career.

Tell us about your path into teaching:

I came to teaching later in life. I was a mature student at Canterbury Christ Church University and was surprised and flattered when my younger PGCE colleagues continued to invite me to student house parties and Tuesday nights out at Club Chemistry. I always politely declined. My student mentor was a graduate from the previous year. His role was to support me and field any concerns. Mine was a certain Toby Payne-Cook. He never emailed (to be fair, I didn’t email him either!) 

What do you love most about teaching?

It’s a huge honour to be just a small part of the process of helping young people on the journey to becoming responsible adults. 

What were you like at school?

Over-confident and just on the right side of naughty.

When you were younger, what did you want to be when you grew up?

I had three main passions growing up: performing, the natural world and sport. I have been fortunate to have pursued these passions both professionally and for pleasure throughout my adult life.

What’s the funniest moment you’ve had in a classroom?

When a child split his trousers in a Drama lesson. It was a Year 7 boy who was really committing to an improvisation. With great gusto, he leapt into the splits, then suddenly jumped up, shouting, ‘I’ve split my trousers!’ We all thought this was hilarious as he shuffled around like a frantic crab, but then he shot out of the classroom. It was only then that we realised he really had split his trousers. We thought it was just terrific acting. 

What’s the most important lesson you can teach?

The importance of listening; Think before you speak; Attention seeking is detention seeking.

What has been the proudest moment of your career so far?

When I hear that former MHS children have pursued Drama at senior school (and beyond) because of an experience they had at MHS, it makes me immensely proud.

What are you most excited about at Marlborough House this term/year?

The school ski trip to Switzerland at Easter. School trips are an integral part of school life and some of the most memorable moments in a child’s school career and they have been totally derailed in the last two years. I hope normal service will resume as soon as possible.

What makes Marlborough House such a special place to be?

The staff - in all areas of the school – are amazing. I feel blessed to work alongside such knowledgeable, kind and committed professionals.

 

Quick-fire questions

School House: Head of Houses so, technically, all four.

Years at MHS: 7

Clubs: Glee; Badminton; Documentary; Chess; Football

Unusual fact : I do not like custard (especially the skin)

Highlight of my day: Walking through the school grounds in the morning.

The book I am reading: Troy by Stephen Fry

Most memorable moment at MHS: The children’s solos in the Christmas Concerts