I currently teach both English and Computer studies – My degree is in English and, as Computer Studies and ICT became embedded in the curriculum, I took post graduate courses to train teachers and teach it, too. I love the mix and variety that analysis of text, creative exploration of language and the structure it affords me each day.

What are you looking forward to?

Being Head of Key Stage 4 is exciting as it affords me the opportunity to work with students as they hone their choices, look more closely at the courses, careers and life paths they hope to take alongside navigating the sometime choppy waters of GCSEs. Year 10 and Year 11 are times of great self-discovery: personalities start to really bloom, individual styles become stronger, strengths shine through and friends for life are cemented as the move into sixth form is made. It is a pleasure to walk side by side with Year 10 and Year 11 as they become better time managers, more confident and independent learners, and share their laughter and success along the way.

Tell us an interesting fact about yourself

I was fortunate enough to grow up abroad and spent many happy years in Hong Kong and the USA, with much of my family still living abroad now. I have a real love of travel, exploration, the sea, novels and art. My favourite books and films have always been ‘ A Passage to India’, ‘Tess of the D’Urbervilles’, ‘My Family and other Animals’ and ‘Notes on an Exhibition’, as well as poetry ranging from Blake, to Hardy, to The War Poets. On screen, the Coen brothers and Wes Anderson films are always ‘go-to’ watches for me.