Tell us about your path into teaching?

I studied music firstly. Music has been a huge part of my life for as long as I can remember. Teaching seemed to be the natural thing to do afterwards in order to pass on my love of the subject.      

Any interesting experiences/qualifications/ former careers

I also teach sailing.  It is so nice to get out in the fresh air on the lake (or sea in the summer!) and have variety in my week. Last week I was driving the powerboat down to the pontoon and I passed a beautiful heron just standing there and taking in the surroundings.   

What do you love most about teaching?

I love being a part of the children’s special moments in life.  It could be the first time a child has sung in front of their class or played a piece in their first school concert - these are the things that shape the children’s future.  I always talk with the children about the importance of being a kind and supportive audience and to imagine themselves in the performer’s shoes.

What were you like at school?

Believe it or not, I was a little bit naughty at school.  Nothing too bad, but I remember laughing my way through school with my friends :)

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

A farmer’s wife!

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

I remember last year I was a little unimpressed with how a couple of children came into the Hopkins Hall (sliding across the floor in rugby mode!).  As I was asking them if they felt it was an appropriate way to come into a classroom, I sneezed in the middle of my sentence!  There was a slight pause and then we all just laughed. I am happy to say that they did enter the room in a far more civilised way for their next lesson.

What’s the most important lesson you can teach?

To encourage the children to treat others how they would want to be treated themselves.  This is true in the classroom, on the playground, in the dining room etc.  I truly believe their lives will be happier and more fulfilled if they are able to achieve this.

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

At Christmas having the children perform the songs I wrote for their Nativity was just magical for me. 

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

This year I am looking forward to working with Year 2 on a special performance to show their parents - the children always get very excited when performing to an audience.

What makes Marlborough House such a special place to be?

The culture of a school always comes from the Headteacher.  Since I have been teaching in the Pre-Prep I have always felt that the culture is truly nurturing and that the children are being given all the necessary life skills to lead wonderful lives.  What a privilege it is to be a part of this.

Quick-fire questions:

Years at MHS: 4 years

Club: Singing Club

Unusual fact: After university, I found myself living at a Music Museum. I used to play the piano for their public open days and then help serve Pimms at the weekends for social events.  Two years ago, the boy that I used to work with all those years ago moved into the same street as me!  

The book I am reading: 'The Secret Life of Bees' by Sue Monk Kidd