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.