Introduce yourself in three words or phrases.
Positivity, integrity, resilience.
What do you like most about your job?
I really enjoy being part of a school community of brilliant staff and students and getting to work with amazing people from all around the world. I thrive when working exciting international projects, which can provide opportunities for young people to achieve beyond what they thought they could. I also like the target-driven commercial aspect of my role.
Best work trip/Worst work trip?
My favourite work trips to date have been to India. It has been brilliant to experience such a rich and vibrant culture, work with such brilliant people. I also feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to see some amazing historic buildings as part of my travels, such as Humayun’s Tomb in Delhi and Falaknuma Palace in Hyderabad. It is very difficult to select the worst work trip as I really enjoy travelling and experiencing different cultures and ways of working.
If you could learn a language instantly, which would you pick and why?
Spanish, because I am a regular visitor to the Andalusian mountains on family holidays and it is a widely spoken language elsewhere too. I have recently been taking positive steps in this area, but it would be such a gift to be given instant fluency!
What makes you get up in the morning?
My two children, one of whom is an incredibly early riser!
Champion/cheerleader we should all follow and why?
I have been very lucky to have worked closely with Ralph Tabberer in recent years and have been greatly inspired by his approach to educational leadership, international school and pedagogical outlook. Ralph was Director General of Schools from March 2006 until March 2009 and is a wise and kind international school leader.
Best international ed conference and why
I am a big fan of IPSEF, the International and Private Schools Education Forum, where I was lucky enough to be asked to be part of a panel this year.
Worst conference food/beverage experience
This is an unfair question! I always feel incredibly grateful to be provided with any sustenance during a busy conference. I must say that the best was at a conference on sustainability in Delhi, which showcased some amazing vegetarian Indian food!
Book or podcast recommendation for others in the sector?
David Boddy – Mind Their Heads
Describe a project or initiative you’re currently working on that excites you.
Having just joined Epsom College as their international development director, I am really looking forward to heading out to their Malaysian campus later this month to meet the leadership team and see the school, which I have heard such good things about, in action for the first time.
I am also really looking forward to taking the lead on their new international school development strategy and working on new opportunities for overseas partnerships.
