What inspired you to be a teacher? 

I studied Zoology and Psychology at University and so perhaps one of them (ah, but which one?!) inspired me to get into teaching. More seriously, I was lucky enough to live abroad and teach across all age ranges and in many different cultures. In those experiences I learnt how important education is to our chances in life and wanted to make a difference by playing a part in it.  

Tell us about your path into teaching: 

I’ve had a really wide range of work experiences - from selling shoes in my home town of Leeds, to PR/Marketing in London and teaching jobs in Barcelona, Bologna and Washington D.C.  In America I taught immigrant refugees arriving in the country and worked with a local university to establish a Conflict Management programme for children.   

Having taught in both state and private schools (as well as having a commercial background) I have built a strong philosophy of what education is and what it means to me.  

What do you love most about teaching? 

What a difficult question – everything – am I allowed to say that?  I really believe teaching is about enhancing the future for the children and so love every aspect of it.  School is about developing knowledge, skills and character - all are indispensable and equally lovable! 

What were you like at school? 

I loved school!  I really enjoyed learning (especially Sciences) and relished sports lessons.  But I found creative lessons (art and music) really difficult and so really admire those who excel in these subjects. 

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

A teacher – my GCSE work experience placement was in the Reception class of a local school.  I was hooked!  

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

I will never forget inviting our Year 8s down to teach Maths to my Year 3 class.  Beaming with pride at the buzz of enthusiastic learning, I asked my class for feedback: 

‘Why was that lesson so good?’  I enquired (expecting some flattering comment and thanks) 

‘Well, they just teach and explain everything so much better than you Mrs Reid!’ 

A hearty serving of humble pie! 

What’s the most important lesson you can teach? 

I have the best possible job in the world as Head of Pre-Prep and this means I get to spend Assembly time with the children and see how they develop and grow.  At every opportunity I emphasise that learning doesn’t stop when you leave the classroom and everyone is as important as each other.  

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

The proudest moments are when I have truly made a difference to a person or to a family or to the team.  I am proud to have been part of the MHS Middle School, Forest School and Pre-Prep teams.  

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

I am most excited about making a difference and embedding everything we have learnt from being in Lockdown and coming back together.  We have such a wonderful opportunity to create a future for the children and it starts right here. 

What makes Marlborough House such a special place to be? 

The people and just how involved and dedicated everyone is – staff, children and parents. 

Quick-fire questions: 

School House:  Awdry 

Years at MHS: Seven years

Clubs: Philosophy (Chess, Sewing, Lego are all past clubs) 

Unusual fact: I love growing fruit and vegetables 

Highlight of my day: Seeing everyone arrive each day for school  

The book I am reading: American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins 

Most memorable moment at MHS: My first day – I couldn’t believe how lucky I was to be joining such a great team.