Where are you joining Epsom from?
I joined Epsom College from Kew House School in Brentford. In my four years at Kew House, I was a PE teacher, interim Head of Girls’ Games and Assistant Head of the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Whilst teaching, I completed an MA in Education and undertook a dissertation on pupil perceptions of the importance of physical activity and sport on mental health. Prior to working at Kew House School, I was a Graduate Sports Assistant at Denstone College before completing my PGCE at University of Nottingham.
In my own education, I was a pupil at Kendrick Grammar School in Reading, before studying Sports and Exercise Science at Loughborough University. During my three years at Loughborough, I competed for the university in Athletics and Cross Country as well as a number of other sports for my halls of residence.
What attracted you to Epsom and what are you most looking forward to, working here?
I am delighted to have gained a position at Epsom College as Head of Physical Education. It really is a dream position for me, and I am incredibly excited to be working in a school that is so renowned for its sport, with such an experienced and passionate sports department.
In particular, I am excited to continue to build on past successes within academic PE. Additionally, I am relishing the opportunity to immerse myself in school life and be a part of the Epsom community. I am really looking forward to being involved with the various House events and sporting competitions.
What aspirations do you have for your department?
I am thrilled to have joined such a passionate, experienced and dedicated PE department. We have a really varied curriculum in PE that aims to equip our pupils with the skills and confidence to continue sport and physical activity long after they leave the College.
I am a passionate believer that sport is for all and through our broad range of activities, pupils are encouraged to try new sports and develop fundamental skills. We have growing numbers at GCSE and I hope to continue to maintain these numbers and encourage more to continue through to A-level. The career opportunities within sport are developing and growing all the time and it is my intention to increase the awareness of the many options available within sports careers and encourage pupils to pursue sports-related degrees in further education.
What elements of College life are you enjoying getting involved with?
On the sports field, I assist with the Cross Country Club on a Saturday and I am looking forward to being involved with the House Cross Country this half term. As an Athletics lover it will be fantastic to see all the pupils getting involved in that event! Additionally, I have enjoyed coaching Hockey and Netball and taking teams to fixtures. Outside of the PE department, I am a tutor in Rosebery House. It has been great getting to know the girls in the House and especially my Middle Fourth tutees. I have really enjoyed being involved with various House events such as the quiz night, karaoke and pumpkin carving! The House Choral Competition has been a highlight so far. I loved seeing the buzz in the build-up to the competition and the evidence of all the pupils’ hard work and preparation during the event.
What do you enjoy outside of school?
Outside of school, I love running and have run competitively for country, county and region since the age of 11. I am currently training for the London Marathon in April 2023 and am running in support of Blood Cancer UK, with a goal to fundraise at least £2,500. I love all things outdoors and enjoy exploring new places and countries. My favourite type of holiday is skiing, and I have skied regularly since the age of 3. I am especially looking forward to going on the school ski trip next month! I also enjoy cooking and love any excuse to bake something. My department are normally the first to try my bakes!
