Reception Class Teacher
During my time at secondary school, I was introduced to a member of the Surrey Army Cadets Force. I immediately joined up and began learning new skills and facing tough challenges. I worked my way up the ranks, gaining more responsibility, including planning and teaching lessons to the younger cadets. I vividly remember the sense of fulfilment I felt in educating even at that age and it was at this point that I knew that teaching was not only my future profession – it was my vocation.
I have been officially teaching since 2010 when I achieved my Bachelor of Arts in Primary Education and being a teacher is a major part of who I am. However, it is not everything I am. I enjoy DIY, socialising, live music and I love travelling to different places around the world, as well as the UK. My favourite place is undoubtedly Cornwall, which is where I spent my holidays as a child visiting my grandparents and I now spend time visiting my dad!
What work experiences led you to the role you are in today?
Since I qualified in 2010, I have managed to experience two very different versions of education. Both of which have led me to my current role, which I absolutely love.
My first role after qualifying took me to the United Arab Emirates, specifically Abu Dhabi. Seemingly, my love of travelling goes beyond the boundaries of the UK and when I received the offer to go, I had no hesitation in taking it. This role taught me about the importance of culture in terms of its impact on education and how the values of education can be transferred globally. The sunshine didn’t hurt either!
Upon my return to the UK, I initially undertook a Maternity Cover role at The Royal, but I fell in love with the ethos and the environment and when I was asked to stay I couldn’t accept quickly enough. I’ve been glad to call it my second home ever since, and am thrilled to be onboard and part of the move to the beautiful Haslemere site, home to our Prep School from September 2023.
What’s the most exciting project you’re working on right now? What makes it so interesting?
It is very exciting to be part of a committee that is working together to plan and orchestrate the move from the Prep School site up to Stoatley, Haslemere. As someone who enjoys interior design in their spare time, I jumped at the opportunity to give my opinion on colour schemes for the new classroom furniture, as well as set up and organise the new show classroom. I was in interior design heaven!
What do you love most about your job and why?
I’ve enjoyed teaching a variety of year groups, but teaching Reception has by far been the most rewarding, magical experience of my teaching career to date. From their very first day of school in September, through learning to read and write, amongst many other things, it’s an incredible journey to be involved in. The camaraderie of the staff at the Royal doesn’t fall too far behind either!
Who inspires you?
Without a shadow of a doubt, the person who inspires me the most is my Mum! She has an incredibly positive outlook on life, and she inspires me to live my life with the same attitude. She has encouraged me to become the hardworking, independent person that I am today, and has taught me the importance of kindness and resilience.
What single item would you take on a deserted island?
Does Bear Grylls count? Hmm…probably not. In that case, I wouldn’t say no to a comfy hammock!
What is a fun fact no one knows about you?
Before university, I spent six months travelling around the world. I visited some amazing places, ticking items off my bucket list such as swimming with wild dolphins and sky diving in New Zealand, swimming with sharks in Malaysia and watching the sun rise before walking for 10k along the Great Wall of China.
What’s your idea of a perfect day?
It would definitely begin a little later than normal, and ideally with the sun shining brightly outside. Brunch followed by a picturesque walk and a country pub stop along the way. If it’s somewhere like Cornwall, even better. A delicious roast dinner in the evening with family wouldn’t go a miss either.
Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?
I can find my way around the workings of a car and I’m able to identify many mechanical issues that they have (I have my dad to thank for this).