I am a solicitor. I spent all of my career working in the City law firm, Slaughter and May, which I joined in 1984. I retired from the partnership there in 2019. For most of that time, I specialised in employment, pensions and employee incentives matters, acting primarily for companies and the trustees of pension schemes.

I have been a Governor at Bethany since 2011 and took over as Chair of Governors in July 2021. I am local to the school, having been brought up in Maidstone and having lived in the area since 1990. Since 2002, I have lived in Marden. I am married with two grown-up children and two grand-children.

Outside the School, my main interests are travelling, good food and sport. I remain, despite advancing years and consequent immobility in the field, a keen cricketer.

I was born in a British military hospital in Dharan, Nepal and spent my formative years talking only Nepalese. My parents, both of whom were doctors, were part of a team of volunteers working there. Nearly 50 years later I speak no Nepalese and have never returned, but it is on my bucket list.

On returning to England, my parents settled in Tonbridge and became GPs in the town. I was educated at Yardley Court Prep School and then went to Tonbridge School, before studying Electronic Engineering at Bristol University.

During my degree I quickly discovered that Electronics wasn’t my forte but programming was. After graduating, my first job was at Racal Avionics programming navigation computers for helicopters.

From there my career has taken a couple of twists and turns (always IT) via EDS, Reuters, British American Tobacco and a few banks including Chief Technical Officer (CTO) at TSB until most recently Lloyds. What is a CTO? Ostensibly the most senior technical person, responsible for managing the technology requirements of the bank. I get to play with techie stuff!

I am married to Alex, and we have three sons Jake, William and Freddy. Despite my wife’s protests, I still regularly play rugby for Tunbridge Wells and cricket for Horsmonden. I also coach my youngest son’s rugby team at Tunbridge Wells.

I am Chair of Governors for Brenchley & Matfield CoE Primary School and a member of the Tenax board of trustees who oversee Bennet Memorial School amongst others. And of course I am a governor at Bethany and for obvious reasons responsible for ICT and also responsible for Safeguarding.

I was born in Trinidad, where my father was in ministry. When we returned to the UK, we settled in my father’s native northeast and grew acclimatised to the change in weather and the requirement to wear shoes! My parents decided to move south, so I attended King’s School, Rochester, for my secondary education. As an undiagnosed dyslexic, I struggled with academic work and consequently left at the age of sixteen with little or no qualifications.

My first job was working for a business retailing garden machinery and outdoor power equipment. Sales and income generation, along with a keen interest in everything business, seemed to be my thing. By my early thirties, I was appointed managing director of a leading garden machinery manufacturer and importer in Oxfordshire. My wife and I then returned to Kent in 2005 to acquire the retail business I had first set out with. The company grew, operating from multiple dealership locations across the southeast before selling it in 2018.

Since then, I have been Chair of the Independent Monitoring Board at HMP Maidstone, along with working three days a week for a large agricultural machinery group, assisting with strategy, business planning, and development.

I am married to Alex, and we have three children in their twenties. Two attended Bethany, one from year 7, the other in the sixth form. Both have inherited my dyslexia and have greatly benefited from the expert support and encouragement that Bethany offers, something that was sadly lacking in my education.

I love following sports and have been known to sing in choirs and spend too much time in the summer mowing grass! As a newly appointed Governor of Bethany School, I am responsible for income generation.

I qualified as a Chartered Accountant with Deloitte’s London in 1975 and have worked in public practice dealing with the accounts and tax affairs of owner-managed businesses, family trusts and the like in West Kent ever since. With two others I set up my own firm in 1980 and continued with this work through a number of changes in the partnership over the years until 2015.

I then retired from the partnership but retained a part-time consultancy role with my firm in Tunbridge Wells which continues.

What I hope to contribute as a new governor is an understanding particularly of finance but also long-term experience of dealing with people in connection with that finance.

I went to school in Tunbridge Wells, obtained a degree in Law and Economics from the University of Exeter in 1972 before doing my three years of graduate accountancy training.

I am married, have two daughters both educated at Cranbrook School and three grandsons and have lived with my wife Carol in Goudhurst for over 30 years.

Apart from running my own business and helping clients to run theirs, my interests outside work have been my family, hockey, which remained a passion until I reached 60, cricket and a 1963 Austin Healey 3000 which brings a smile to my face on sunny days.

I was born in Ely, Cambridgeshire and was privileged to be a “scholarship boy” at the Cathedral school. I completed a degree in European Studies specialising in German at the University of East Anglia and went straight back to school as a teacher. After a long stint as a boarding housemaster and at a new school as Head of Modern Languages, I became head of a “Prep” School for nine years and then Head of Battle Abbey School for a further 16 years.

Following years of experience inspecting schools such as Bethany in England, I now regularly go out to the UAE to inspect their schools. They use a UK based inspection model and this helps me when I go into classes at Bethany as part of my role as chair of the governors’ Education Committee. I have a special responsibility for English and SEND at Bethany as well as the general education brief and I sit on the management committee.

I have been with Bethany for four years and I have been delighted to watch the significant improvements that have taken place in the classroom in terms of teaching and learning. In some ways, I believe that Bethany is at the forefront of teaching development and is blessed to have a dedicated staff, open to innovation and change and keen to do the very best for their pupils.

Outside of school, I have an energetic working cocker spaniel, who keeps me exercised and seven grandchildren and a large garden and a predilection to spend a fair amount of the summer on the golf course. I am also heavily committed to our local Rotary club and village church.

I was born and grew up in Johannesburg, South Africa where I went to St Andrews School in Bedfordview on an academic scholarship and then to the University of the Witwatersrand. I majored in English and Linguistics in my undergraduate degree and then went on to study law.

On graduating I worked as a notary and attorney in Johannesburg for many years, doing family law and property law, until I moved to the UK in 2005 with my husband and three children.

I requalified as a UK solicitor in 2006 and I have been practising as a solicitor in the UK ever since, specialising in property law. I am currently a senior solicitor at Knocker & Foskett in Sevenoaks.

I was first introduced to Bethany when I was a partner at Pengelly & Rylands in Tenterden where I practised from 2011 to 2018. I was involved with various legal matters on behalf of the school over the years and I got to know Francie Healy and his daughter Alice when she did work experience at the firm. I am pleased to say that she was not put off the legal profession by the experience and she is now a successful solicitor in Manchester.

Growing up I was never much good at sport, preferring dancing and music, but in my forties after much encouragement from a friend to join her in the Hospice in the Weald annual 10km race in Tunbridge Wells, I took up running. I haven’t looked back (literally and figuratively). I persuaded my husband to join me and we now run regularly together. Occasionally our children will join us for a Park Run. We have since done numerous 10km races and half marathons and one of these days I plan to do a marathon.

In my spare time I still enjoy playing music. I play the viola in the Tonbridge Philharmonic Orchestra and also in the music group at St Peter & Paul Parish Church in Tonbridge.

I am a local boy, as my parents have lived in the Horsmonden area since 1962. I went to Horsmonden Primary School then on to Bethany School following in my brother, Roger’s footsteps, who was two years ahead of me.

After A Levels I went to Oxford Poly (now Oxford Brookes University) where I graduated with a 2:1 in Geology and met Lindsay my wife who was studying History and Sociology. Our first “date” was to see Noddy Holder and Slade at the Poly!

I worked in the oil industry as a “mud logger” for a couple of years in the North Sea. Still a form of amusement when I describe what a “mud logger” is. Amazing experience which I will never forget but after a while there were only so many helicopter flights and 12 hour shifts one could take. In those days a highly dangerous environment…Piper Alpha was a couple of years after I left the Industry.

I decided to make a pretty drastic change in career when job opportunities were becoming scarce in the Oil Industry. I used my grounding in Maths to qualify as a Chartered Accountant and became a Partner in McBrides Chartered Accountants in Sidcup, Kent in 1998 where I remain as one of eight Partners and now head up the Corporate Finance team dealing in mergers and acquisitions. We have 50 members of staff.

I am married to Lindsay (we have moved on from Noddy Holder to AC/DC now !!) and have two children; Tom who is 25 and Olivia who is 20. We have lived in East Malling for the last 15 years – a stone’s throw from Bethany.

I became President of The Bethanians’ Society a few years ago, staying on for two years. I have been on the committee as Treasurer for the last 18 years.

I love any sport going especially golf and football and Leeds United with a passion. Anything to do with the stars, the world we live in, the amazing aurora borealis… they all tick the boxes. I love to ski and play the guitar and play golf all probably to the same standard – the Olympic downhill ski run at Val d’Isere took me 15 minutes longer than the gold medallist in the winter olympics so that probably says a lot about my skiing, guitar playing and how I hit the ball. Recently Lindsay and I started to learn Ballroom and Latin dancing – watch out Kevin Clifton!!

I was born in West London and grew up in Grays, Essex where I attended a Convent School. 6th Form College wasn’t for me and I started my working life in an East German Freight Forwarding Company in Tilbury Docks a few weeks before my 18th Birthday. I went to work in London for a small Commodity Brokers as a back office and accounts assistant. It’s also where I met my Husband, Patrick Donegan.

Investment Banking came next and I started as a secretary at Barclays de Zoete Wedd on the Equity Syndicate Desk – I had two amazing bosses who gave me the chance and the confidence to move up the ladder. I finished my banking career at Commerzbank in 2005. The long hours took its toll and didn’t work with two young children. After taking a year off I went on to open a Hair salon in Cranbrook and trained to be a hairdresser. The salon is still going strong today and is run by my Sister-in-law and niece, I now take a background role doing the accounting and paperwork. I also run a small property development company buying, developing and selling residential houses.

My two children JJ, 24 and Libby 20 attended Bethany and both did very well both academically and socially. Patrick my Husband also attended Bethany along with his 3 brothers during the 70s and 80s. I have real interest in children’s Mental health and hope my role as a Governor can aide in some way.

I play netball for a local team, love fashion and am currently working on my handbag and shoe collection.

I am the Head of Goudhurst & Kilndown CEP School and have many years’ experience of being a governor. I began teaching in London in 1988 after completing a BEd (Hons) at Sheffield. I moved to Kent in 1991 and have worked during my career in a variety of schools across the full primary age range. I was Headteacher at High Halden Church of England Primary School from 2010-2013 before moving to be Headteacher at Goudhurst Church of England Primary School.

I was Interim Executive Headteacher at Frittenden Church of England Primary School from April – December 2015, and more recently was appointed as the Executive Headteacher of Sandhurst Community Primary School from September 2016 – April 2018.

In February 2016 I became a National Leader of Education, and Goudhurst & Kilndown Church of England Primary School became a National Support School; I am committed to collaboration and sharing of good practice in order to improve the outcomes for children. I am also passionate about ‘Outdoor Learning’ and introduced Forest School in to the curriculum in September 2015.

Amongst the huge array of benefits that the playing and learning outdoors can provide for children, Forest School can encourage problem solving, decision making, develops confidence, self esteem & independence. creativity and practical skills and a deeper knowledge of the world in which we live.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family, walking our two playful dachshunds, Mohjo and Blue, as well as swimming and standing on the side lines cheering my son Hamish who plays hockey for U21 Scotland/Loughborough University.

Date you joined the School
September 1989.

What do you do at Bethany?
I am Headmaster and thus lead the School.

Other responsibilities?
Ultimately, I have responsibility for everything.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I taught Maths and ICT in a school in Dublin, Ireland.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“It is nice to be important but it is more important to be nice.” I am a great believer in good manners.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
Bethany is like my home. We deliver an all-round education which is exactly what every child needs. We challenge their strengths and support and enable the development of their weaker areas.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I like reading, usually biographies, walking and am a great fan of Manchester United.

What is your favourite School memory?
Getting 99.5% in a Spanish exam and asking the teacher where I lost marks. This quickly went around the school and I became a “celebrity” for a day!

Who is your hero and why?
The English classical singer Russell Watson. He is a wonderful singer who overcame serious illness and is now a stronger person because of it.

Date you joined the School?
March 2022

What do you do at Bethany?
Manage and oversee most aspects of the non-teaching side of the school.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I worked in another local independent prep school.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Maths and Science – I enjoyed these subjects more than others.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
The friendly staff and pupils.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I enjoy walking and keeping fit when I can and watching musicals and shows.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you be doing?
Something science related, although I’m not sure what!

Date you joined the School
September 2016.

What do you do at Bethany?
I work as part of the Senior Management Team to ensure that all pupils fulfil their potential and are happy at school. I also teach English!

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I’ve been a teacher since my early twenties – most recently I was Assistant Head at a small Cornish secondary school.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
A Prayer for Owen Meany by John Irving is my favourite book, because it made me laugh, it made me cry, and it kept me riveted from start to finish.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
‘They succeed, because they think they can’ – Virgil. Because too often I hear pupils saying ‘I can’t’ which is incredibly self-limiting.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Definitely English – I love reading and writing. I harbour a not-so-secret ambition to write a novel.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
Because everyone is very caring and there is a real sense of community.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Spending time with my family; running; reading; walking.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
So many to choose from…! I’ll go with sneaking a peak under the Christmas tree in the early hours of Christmas morning with my brother.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Green – it’s calming and makes me think of spring.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
Be working on that novel…

Date you joined the School
September 2011.

What do you do at Bethany?
I oversee the pastoral care of the pupils with the support of the Housemasters / Housemistress and their tutor teams. As Head of Boarding I ensure that the care of the boarders is excellent.

What is your favourite film and why?
My favourite film is The Shawshank Redemption because of the depiction of the human spirit.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Games, because I was successful and I loved the challenge.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I enjoy skiing holidays with my family and trying to keep fit.

What is your favourite school memory?
All the sporting success I was able to enjoy with my teammates.

Who is your hero/heroine and why?
In the sports world, Michael Jones, the All Blacks rugby player, was my hero when I was growing up because he was the best in the world and played with respect and integrity.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Blue, because I am Scottish!

What do you do at Bethany?
I report to the Headmaster and my role is to provide professional support and guidance on all aspects of people management and current employment legislation.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I’ve worked in HR for over 30 years and 14 of those years have been in education.

What is your favourite music?
Paul Weller, because he is Paul Weller!

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“However bad life may seem, there is always something you can do and succeed at. While there’s life, there is hope.” Stephen Hawking. I really do believe where there is life, there is hope…

What was your favourite subject at school and why?
Art – I always wanted to be a budding artist but got distracted and found that people were far more interesting and exciting, hence my career choice.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I really do the love the ethos of the School, the sense that we are a community and collectively, whatever our roles, we are working together in preparing these young people both academically and personally. The School, Staff and Governors are really committed to supporting these young people and I see that every day.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Being a Trustee and supporting a Nursery School in Gambia which I helped build in 2007. But closer to home, it’s live music, reading, knitting and walking – especially when it’s cold.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Aged seven years old, sitting with my Great Aunt Rose Bud on New Year’s Eve drinking Tizer and eating Wotsits watching the New Year come in on her old TV and thinking how grown up I was!

What is your favourite colour and why?
Purple, today.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I’d be sitting in Gambia, in a classroom surrounded by a class of four to eight year olds with a huge grin on my face, thinking this is it!

Date you joined the School

May 2023.

What do you do at Bethany?
I oversee all of the marketing and admissions related activity.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
For the past 10 years I have worked in schools in a marketing and admissions capacity. Prior to that I was in the design and print industry.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“The moment you doubt whether you can fly, you cease for ever to be able to do it.” – J.M. Barrie, Peter Pan

I think you always have to believe in yourself and be prepared to take risks.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I respect the level of pastoral care that is given to all pupils. I firmly believe that all schools should offer the level of care that Bethany does!

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I like going on long walks with my two crazy cocker spaniels (Wilf and Rufus) and enjoy going out for a nice meal with a lovely bottle of wine.

What is your favourite School memory?
My Spanish teacher, Mrs Croft, who inspired me to learn the language. I also loved going on numerous school trips to Spain.

Who is your hero and why?
Erin Brockovich because of her willingness and determination to do what is right, no matter who she had to take on. She continues to inspire those who are passionate about making a positive difference in the world.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Going on our annual holidays to Spain, where I spent every waking hour in the swimming pool.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Orange – it suits me… apparently.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
Even as I was growing up I said that I’d always like to be a paediatric nurse.

Date you joined the School?
March 2010.

What do you do at Bethany?
Repairs and maintenance.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I worked in a food manufacturing factory.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Sport because I enjoyed it and there was no homework!

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I like working at Bethany because there is so much variety.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I enjoy gardening.

Who is your hero and why?
Valentino Rossi. He was a world champion motorbike racer!

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
Build tennis courts.

Date you joined the School?
March 1996.

What do you do at Bethany?
Maintenance.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I worked in the construction industry as a roofer.

What is your favourite artist and why?
Frank Sinatra because he had an excellent voice.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I like working at Bethany because it’s entertaining due to the rich mixture of people that work here.

What is your favourite school memory?
School friends because we have kept in contact.

Who is your hero and why?
My dad because he was my dad and my best friend.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Claret because it’s West Ham United’s colour.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would like to live half way up a mountain in Austria so I can go skiing as much as I want.

Date you joined the School?
September 2006.

What do you do at Bethany?
Head groundsman and looking after the pitches.

What is your favourite band and why?
Blur – they are the best band ever.

What was your favourite subject at school and why?
Art, because I enjoyed it.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
Because it’s a good, fun and friendly environment to work in.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Classic cars.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would like to be an RSPCA officer.

Date you joined the School?
September 2021.

What do you do at Bethany?
Drive the school minibus

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
Delivered newspapers

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film?
Anything by James Patterson. Beatles, Fleetwood Mac and Carlie Simon.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Geography and History

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Member of Caravan Club and Vintage Class Motorcycle Club

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you be doing?
Being away in my caravan at motorcycle meetings.

Date you joined the School?
September 2020.

What do you do at the School?
School minibus driver.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
Tour guide and host at Chapeldown vineyard.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
Tess of the d’Urbervilles. I had an early interest in Hardy as I was baptised in the Church he is buried in and it is my favourite of his works. I also love “Rebecca” if performed as a play.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
I loved History and Geography because of my inspirational teachers.

What interests do you have outside of Bethany?
The countryside, horses, dogs, English wine and DIY, particularly carpentry.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Riding my pony.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would like to study wine, particularly English.

Date you joined the School?
March 2015.

What do you do at Bethany?
Maintain the School buildings and drive the minibus that brings the children to and from School.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
Facilities Management.

What is your favourite music and why?
I like the bands Athlete, Kean and Snow Patrol, because that is my kind of music!

What is your favourite quotation and why?
It’s been emotional – Vinny Jones in Lock, Stock and Two Smoking Barrels, as it think he is a great character.

What was your favourite subject at school and why?
PE, because I like all sports.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I like working with the friendly team here.

What interests you have outside Bethany?
Fishing and gardening.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Playing basketball for my school and winning the All London Final.

What is your favourite colour and and why?
Yellow, as it was the colour of our school basketball kit.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would like to own a large lake complex in France.

Date you joined the School?
September 2021.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
Housekeeping co-ordinator at Benenden Hospital.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film?
Greece – I remember watching it in 1978 at Cranbrook cinema.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
‘Never look back in anger.’ I would rather look back on fond memories.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
P.E. because i loved running.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I love spending time with my grandchildren, walking and watching films.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Red, because it is a vibrant colour.

What’s your favourite childhood memory? 
Going on a canal barge with my Dad.

Date you joined the School?
April 2006.

What do you do at Bethany?
I clean the Administration Building and the Medical Centre.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I was a chef for thirty years.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Cookery because I always got good grades.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I like working at Bethany because it has a friendly atmosphere.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I like gardening and flower arranging.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Spending days at the seaside.

Who is your hero and why?
Cliff Richard, because he is so charitable.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Pink, because it is bright and cheerful.

Date you joined the School?
August 2022.

What do you do at Bethany?
I teach Science with a specialism in Biology. I also help to run Eco Club.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
For 15 years I worked as a research scientist in London (UCL and Imperial) developing drugs to help cure diseases such as type 1 diabetes, lupus and arthritis. I then retrained as a Science teacher and have since work in a Catholic school in Crawley and an Academy in Tunbridge Wells before joining Bethany.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
My favourite film is The Matrix. I remember seeing it for the first time and thinking how different it was to any other film I had seen. I still think nothing else since compares to it!

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“Instead of letting your hardships and failures discourage or exhaust you, let them inspire you. ” – Michelle Obama
Sometimes in life, things don’t go the way you plan but you can end up on a path that is different and much better than you could ever have expected.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
I really enjoyed maths, I still love teaching the maths that pupils need to know in Science.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
Bethany is like an extended family and everyone has been very welcoming. I love teaching the smaller classes where I get to know all the pupils.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I love animals so have pet chickens at home, fish and a dog. I spend a lot of time outside with my children going for walks or growing our own vegetables in our garden.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
One of my best childhood memories was touring around East Africa with my parents when I was eight. The countries we visited seemed so colourful. We did see a lot of poverty though, and in those days leprosy still existed.

What is your favourite school memory?
Visiting my grandparents in Cornwall and spending time on the beach with my brothers. We use to swim in the pool, play cricket on the beach walk the dog across the golf course.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Blue, I grew up by the sea and so it always reminds me of home and my family.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would buy a house with land where I could have more animals and try to be more self sufficient growing my own food.

Date you joined the School?

September 2021

What do you do at Bethany?

I teach mathematics and some DLS sessions.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?

I previously worked at an all girls grammar school teaching mathematics. Before that, I worked an office job in the insurance sector in London while at university.

What is your favourite quotation and why?

‘If you’re going through hell, keep going’ – I find it incredibly powerful for people who suffer with mental illnesses, but also anyone struggling through difficult times.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?

Mathematics as I love that there is always a definitive right answer.

Why do you like working at Bethany?

I really like the family aspect to Bethany, everyone is welcome and the pupils are at the heart of everything the school does.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?

I play netball every week, and I love going to get my nails done!

What is your favourite childhood memory?

I used to spend every summer holiday on my family’s boat going around the south coast. We used to visit all the seaside places and spend time on the beaches.

What is your favourite colour and why?

Pink, I am not sure why!

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?

I would like to be living somewhere like Brighton, still working with children and trying to make a difference to young people’s lives.

Date you joined the School?
September 2004.

What do you do at Bethany?
I am a teacher of PE and Games.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I was at university doing a degree in PE with QTS.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
Everything happens for a reason – It is a positive quote and reminds me to work, live, play to the best of my ability no matter what the outcome.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
The pupils are lovely. It is a friendly and caring environment. The other staff are more like friends than work colleagues.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
All sports!! But especially watching Arsenal, going to the gym, playing netball and Ballroom and Latin dancing. I also enjoy knitting, tapestry (cross stitch), music and socialising with family and friends. 

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Being in Disney World Florida with my family.

Who is your hero/heroine and why?
Jessica Ennis-Hill. She trained hard, was committed, successful, respectful and an excellent role model.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
Nothing!! I’ve wanted to be a PE teacher since I was seven years old!

Date you joined the School?
September 2015.

What do you do at Bethany?
I teach Maths, ICT and PE and am also a Sixth Form tutor.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I taught at a school in Gravesend for the last 4 years. Before this I tried my hand at loads of things until I settled into teaching.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
My favourite book as a child was The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. It has a strong central character, who goes on a journey of self-discovery and it also has a thrilling plot twist at the end.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“Kids from Kilburn aren’t supposed to win the Tour” – Bradley Wiggins. A reminder that you can achieve the most unlikely of things if you put your mind to it and work hard enough.

What was your favourite subject at school and why?
My favourite subject at school was actually History. I had a series of fantastic teachers who really made the subject interesting and relevant. It seemed that we only ever did something interactive in History.  

Why do you like working at Bethany?
It was the location, how welcome I was made to feel on arrival and seeing the respect and fantastic relationships between staff and pupils that made me want to teach at Bethany.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I used to play a lot of rugby, but I have now decided that it hurts too much so I tend to spend my time out on my bike. I also try to make sure that I am never more than 10 minutes away from an ice cream van.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
My favourite memories are of long summer holidays in the south of France. We used to go with lots of family friends and we were just able to go off on our bikes to the beach, explore forests and canoe across lakes.

What is your favourite colour and why?
All of them, I much prefer colour to black and white.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would love to be standing on top of a mountain enjoying the view and deciding how I was about to get down: ski, cycle or raft.

Date you joined the School?
September 2018.

What do you do at Bethany?
I teach Spanish from Year 7 to Year 13.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I worked for Kent County Council as a Spanish teacher and I also worked at Mascalls Academy as a Language Assistant.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film?
La Casa de Bernarda Alba is a good novel to read to understand the context in Spain about roles in families. This novel is also part of the Spanish A level curriculum.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“Life is a one-time offer, use it well.” – Unknown. Life is short!

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Spanish and PE because I’m Spanish and I like to teach my language and my culture around the world and PE is my favourite because my life is based around sports.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
As a teacher, you are doing excellent work as you are caring for pupils and teaching them to be independent. Bethany is one of the best places to develop your ideas and career.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I like to go to the gym and spend time with my friends.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Blue because it’s the same colour as the sky.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you be doing?
This is a hard question but probably working in the police or something similar as I always want to help others.

Date you joined the School
September 2016.

What do you do at Bethany?
I teach Drama and also direct the School Productions. I am also Head of Key Stage 4.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I worked as a Drama teacher at a school in Medway and before that I worked in Theatre in Education.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
My favourite novel is The Screwtape Letters by CS Lewis as it so insightful and highlights the pitfalls of life! My favourite film is The Empire Strikes Back as it was the first film I saw at the cinema and it really inspired my imaginations. My favourite artist is Salvador Dali as I love the way he is able to take every day objects and paint them in an original way.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
When life gives you lemons, make lemonade. I love its optimism!

What was your favourite subject at school and why?
Other than Drama? I loved English Literature as it allowed me to explore different writing styles and how this can influence an audience.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I love working at Bethany as at the centre of everything are the pupils and the great things they achieve.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I have a young family and I love to spend time with them enjoying camping, cycling and the odd movie night!

What is your favourite childhood memory?
I had a very happy childhood and in particular having my grandparents arrive on Christmas Eve. Seeing their car pull up on the driveway even now reminds me of those happy times.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Blue. I don’t know why!

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would love to be the Artistic Director for the Old Vic.

Date you joined the School?
September 1995.

What do you do at Bethany?
I teach Business Studies.

Other responsibilities?
I also run the School’s popular Young Enterprise Scheme. Bethany is a ‘YE Centre of Excellence’, one of only two in Kent.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
It’s very unique! Friendly teaching staff, great pupils, supportive parents, beautiful location and a wonderful place to bring up my own family.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Definitely my dad turning up to my Primary School in the middle of the day to collect my brother and I, with no explanation (of course we were thinking “what have we done?!”). He actually took us to the premiere of Star Wars at Odeon Leicester Square – Wow! Been a bit hooked on Sci-Fi ever since.

What is your favourite School memory?
I played the bass drum in my school’s marching band. The final event of each summer was “beating the retreat”, a one hour show in the school’s quadrangle. That was pretty special to be involved in, as was playing in the Lord Mayor’s Show through London.

Who is your hero/heroine and why?
Neil Armstrong. Walking on the moon, only a few have done that and only one can lay claim to being the first. That truly is unique.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Two colours: Claret and Blue. ‘Up The Hammers!’

Date you joined the School?
September 2021.

What do you do at Bethany?
Teach Geography / Year 11 Tutor – Encourage and Enthuse.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
Been teaching a good while but before that i used to supply oil around the world.

What is your favourite novel?
Midnights children (Salman Rushdie) Lord of the Rings (Tolkein)

What is your favourite quotation and why?
‘Life is not a matter of holding good cards, but of playing poor hands well.’

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Geography and English – Both had brilliant, enthusiastic teachers.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I like all kinds of culture – films, video games, theatre, SFC, music, novels, TV.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Blue

What’s your favourite childhood memory? 
Playing Manic Miner on my ZX Spectrum with my brother.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you be doing?
Full time game journalist or film director

Date you joined the School?
September 2008

What do you do at Bethany?
I am the Director of Extra Curricular Activities, such as clubs and the enrichment programme. I also teach Mathematics.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I travelled quite a lot. I was in the British Army and worked in London for Price Waterhouse Coopers.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Family, mountaineering, diving and sailing.

Who is your hero/heroine and why?
David Attenborough and his passion for nature and his conservation work.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Anything BOLD!

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
Running more expeditions abroad as I currently only do this during the summer break.

Date you joined the School?
September 2021

What do you do at Bethany?
I teach English, Media Studies, and History.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I taught English at a Grammar School in Maidstone. Before that I worked in Recruitment and Marketing at the University of Kent.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
The New York Trilogy by Paul Auster will always sit close to the top of my favourite book list. It’s one of those novels that I can read again every few years and still feel like a different person by the time I reach the end.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
Argentinian short-story writer and essayist, Jorge Luis Borges, wrote that “Nothing is built on stone; all is built on sand, but we must build as if the sand were stone.” I suppose this truism permeates all that we do – nothing can last forever but we must work, create, and live as though it can. Without that simple notion, what are we doing here?

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Geology was my favourite subject. The realisation that humanity is a drop in the vast ocean of Earth’s existence fascinates and terrifies me in equal measure. Plus, I knew the school trips would be good.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I have never felt an immediate sense of belonging in any other workplace. The vision that this school has and the way it does what it does so marvellously is mind blowing.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I enjoy boxing, cycling, running, eating, and laughing. My family are cool, too.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Flying back for 23 and a half hours from New Zealand for my Auntie’s wedding here in the UK. Seeing my Grandad riding his bike through our hotel carpark with ice-creams in his hand for my sister and I with a huge smile on his face. Watching him fall off the bike and dropping the ice-cream in fits of laughter.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would be most likely be at University still, perhaps studying for a PhD. Failing that, I’d probably be a washed-up, semi-successful novelist with long hair.

Date you joined the School?
September 2014.

Other responsibilities?
Ropes course and rock climbing during activities sessions.

What do you do at Bethany?
I teach science to all years, with a focus on physics for the upper years.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I have previously worked in a nursery school, and have been a cover teacher at a secondary school.

What is your favourite artist and why?
My favourite artist is Salvador Dali because every time you look at one of his paintings, there is always more to see.

What was your favourite subject at school and why?
Design and Technology because I really enjoyed wood turning and making gifts for people.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
The atmosphere in the School makes it a really welcoming community.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I enjoy rock climbing, karate and many other adventure sports.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
I remember being on holiday in Spain when I was seven, and diving off the rocks into the sea; it sparked my interest in high board diving which I trained in until I was 17.

What is your favourite School memory?
The world challenge expedition I undertook to Guatemala and Belize was a truly memorable experience, excellent friendships and teamwork.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Blue because it reminds me of blue skies and being by the seaside.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I have always wanted to be a stuntman in films and television!

Date you joined the School?

January 2023.

What do you do at Bethany?

I currently lead the Philosophy, Ethics and Religion department here at Bethany, teaching Religious Studies. I also help out with boarding in the evenings.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?

I worked in a coffee shop. I went from serving cappuccinos to teaching pupils!

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?

Novel: I would have to say most philosophy based books, but I love anything Nietzsche.

Music: I love a lot of music, but if I had to say four: Surf Curse, Her’s, Bon Iver and Harry Styles.

Film: Anything Wes Anderson!

What is your favourite quotation and why?

“In the midst of winter, I found, within me, an invincible summer” Albert Camus – a great way of thinking that no matter how dark the days get, there is always a brighter day on the horizon!

What was your favourite subject at School and why?

I fell in love with Philosophy and Ethics at A Level and haven’t turned back since.

Why do you like working at Bethany?

From day one, it is has been such a welcoming environment. With it being such a small school and the fact I teach every group in Year 7, 8 and 9, some at GCSE and A Level, you get to know everyone quite quickly. It’s also great to hear ‘MORNING MR ALLSOPP!’ from across campus when I walk into work in the mornings.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?

I love playing guitar and going to gigs with friends.

What is your favourite childhood memory?

Going to the Isle of Wight with my family and my dogs every summer. We still go even now.

What is your favourite colour and why?

Sage green, it sounds fancy.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?

Sleep!

Date you joined the School?
September 2005.

What do you do at Bethany?
I am the Head of Chemistry so have responsibility for all of the GCSE and A level Chemistry courses and, of course, the pupils studying them.

Other responsibilities?
I am also Timetable Officer so I devise the teaching timetables each year and also write the timetables for all the internal and mock exams. In addition I have also coached both the 1st and 2nd XI football teams over the years.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I taught at Cokethorpe School in Oxfordshire for three years and at Salendine Nook High School in Huddersfield for two years before that. Prior to obtaining my teaching qualifications I worked in the chemicals industry, firstly for Yorkshire Chemicals and then for Pittards, both based in Leeds.

What is your favourite film and why?
My favourite set of movies is the (original and “proper”) ‘Star Wars’ trilogy. Quite simply, they are the most wonderful blend of storytelling, sci-fi, action and humour and, although most people beg to differ, I’m pretty sure that they’re actually documentaries!!!

Why do you like working at Bethany?
It is an extremely friendly school where everyone knows, and looks out for, everyone else. The pupils are friendly and polite and genuinely appreciate the work we do and the opportunities afforded them in general. We are also incredibly lucky to work in the beautiful landscape that surrounds us.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
My family comes very much at the top of the list but after that I am passionate about football. I have played for many different teams over the years and, for my sins, support Leeds United. I am also a keen movie fan and enjoy reading and music. I would say that my musical taste is eclectic, my wife would say that it is mainly rubbish!!!

What is your favourite school memory?
Captaining my school football team for seven years, something of which I’m very proud.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Purple – it is a colour of prestige and I find it very pleasing on the eye, but I also find the history of its derivation and use, and of its development as a synthetic colorant by Sir William Perkin, very interesting; in fact, the colour mauve was actually invented by Perkin, whose son was later head of my old department, and Dean of Faculty, at Leeds University.

Jeremy (Jez) joined Bethany School in May 2024 as Assistant Director of Performing Arts.

Jez previously worked in the Music and Musical Theatre departments at the BRIT School and is currently co-owner of Little Shop Productions. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Music Theory and Composition from the University of Kent, and a PGCE in Secondary Music from the University of Sussex.

Outside of teaching, Jez is a singer, songwriter, and producer who has played in bands like The Good Ship Band and Harley & Woods. He’s also written songs for Warner Bros. Publishing with Scott English, and has toured with artists on the Universal label. He has also supported artists like Amy Winehouse and Corinne Bailey Rae.

Date you joined the School?
September 1996.

What do you do at Bethany?
I teach Design & Technology to all Year Groups. I am also a Sixth Form tutor.

Other responsibilities?
I am also responsible for organising Work Experience for Year 11.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I was Second in Charge of the Design & Technology department and the Contingent Commander for the Combined Cadet Force at a local state school.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
A quote from my late Grandad that I will never forget is Do you live to eat or do you eat to live? It certainly got me thinking at the age of around eight!

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I think the Design & Technology facilities at Bethany are fantastic and offer so much potential for pupils. I enjoy working with staff and the location of the School is stunning.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
One of my best childhood memories was touring around East Africa with my parents when I was eight. The countries we visited seemed so colourful. We did see a lot of poverty though, and in those days leprosy still existed.

What is your favourite school memory?
One of my great memories was watching the supersonic airplane, Concord, take off over my school near Heathrow Airport on its maiden flight. The whole school chased the plane down the road. We did not keep up of course! Health and Safety did not seem to exist in those days!

Who is your hero/heroine and why?
My Grandad was always my hero. He fought in the First World War as a Chief Petty Officer Gunner in the Royal Naval Air Service and then served in the Home Guard in World War Two. The stories he told me were fantastic. He did get shot in the foot and had a hole as a memento.

Date you joined the School?
April 2008.

What do you do at Bethany?
Direct and manage all sports programmes. 

Other responsibilities?
I am a Sixth Form tutor.

What is your favourite film and why?
Star Wars – A New Hope. I grew up with the original, fantasy, action, love story, good vs evil and fantastic characters. What a film!

Why do you like working at Bethany?
The size of the School, pupil-teacher relationships, the location, the family atmosphere and ability to offer fantastic opportunities to pupils all combine to make Bethany an excellent working environment.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Generally keeping fit, golf, reading and theatre. I also enjoy going for adventure walks with my children.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Christmas!

What is your favourite school memory?
Many rugby matches and competing in the Welsh Schools athletics championships. Also going on an outdoor adventure week in the Brecon Beacons.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Green, as it represents spring and summer, nature and countryside.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
Working as a physio with a professional sports club.

Date you joined the School?
September 2021

What do you do at Bethany?
I am Head of Languages – teaching French in Y7 up to VI form.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I’ve taught for over 20 years including in Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, Yorkshire (where I’m from), Tanzania and France. Immediately before Bethany, I was teaching at an academy in Hemel Hempstead.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film?
Favourite book – hands down – Behind the Scenes at the Museum by Kate Aktinson. It’s set in York which is 20 minutes from where I’m from and includes my favourite line from any novel I’ve ever read: ‘Bunty thought shop-bought cakes were the epitome of house-wifish sluttery!’

Favourite music?
Musicals or Mozart

Favourite TV show?
The West Wing – a seven series blockbuster about life in the White House.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
Apart from the one above…I’d have to say St. Julian of Norwich who said “all will be well and all manner of things will be well.” Things tend to turn out alright in the end. If it’s not alright – it’s not the end!

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Perhaps unsurprisingly – French. I had an amazing French teacher and she’s one reason I became a teacher. I was also good at maths.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
From the first day I arrived at interview, my overriding impression was that everyone was very happy to be here. It’s a very special place and I’ve only just started to discover a tiny proportion of the reasons why people enjoy working and studying here.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I love nothing more than sitting and watching tv. I also attend my local church, love getting out and about and discovering new and interesting places. During the holidays, I try to visit new countries and cities.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Grey! No explanation needed!

What’s your favourite childhood memory? 
Being a twin (and the younger one) I always got to spend my birthday together with my brother. And being from a family of four boys, there was always something exciting going on where one or all of us would get into trouble. But I’d have to say caravanning holidays with family and relatives were a firm favourite.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you be doing?
Possibly directing plays or musicals somewhere. I fell into it while I was working in Tanzania and the school needed someone to take over directing a show at short notice. I’ve done some brilliant productions and I love putting in the work and seeing what effort, dedication and talent can bring. The best part is watching the fruits of your labours and knowing it’s all come together.

Date you joined the School?
September 2018

What do you do at Bethany?
I teach History and Politics and I am the Assistant Head of Year 7 and 8.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I taught History for two years in a large state school.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
Winston Churchill’s autobiography about his early life. He is such a fascinating figure and led such an interesting life even before he got into politics!

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill. I love this quote as it highlights that often success is not immediate and has to be worked for, a very important thing to remember.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
History, although I loved studying Politics in Sixth Form – I had some truly inspirational teachers!

Why do you like working at Bethany?
It’s a great environment and a real close-knit, supportive community.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I enjoy cycling and playing squash. I also support Exeter Chiefs rugby team.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Talking about history with my grandfather and holidaying in Cornwall.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Orange, or green. I’m not overly sure why.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I cannot think of anything else I would rather be doing!

Date you joined the School?
September 2020

What do you do at Bethany?
I teach English and Media studies. I am also responsible for Project Based Learning, Pupil Voice and Whole School Literacy. I am also Head of Roberts Competitive House.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I worked as Faculty Head of English and MFL at a leading independent school in Kent. I have also undertaken several other responsibilities including pastoral roles as Head of House and academic roles such as Head of Sociology and Literacy Coordinator.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
My favourite novel is The Glass Palace by Amitav Ghosh. It’s a historical story that details the British invasion of Burma and the fall of the Konbaung dynasty. I love how the writer masterfully details the life of Rajkumar, an entrepreneurial Indian boy living in Burma who finds his fortune as a teak merchant.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
‘We live in the flicker — may it last as long as the old earth keeps rolling!.’ This quote from Joseph Conrad’s Heart of Darkness always reminds me to enjoy life to its very fullest.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Besides English, I particularly enjoyed Art. I loved the stories behind paintings that reveal themselves when you look closely enough and for long enough. I also loved finger-painting!

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I particularly enjoy the caring, nurturing aspect of the school and its individual approach to student learning.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I am a keen sportsman and particularly enjoy squash, for which I have played since the age of six! I also really enjoy long distance running and have completed several marathons and even an ultra-marathon or two! I also play drums in a band!

What is your favourite childhood memory?
I remember being about four or five years old sitting on a picnic blanket with my grandmother as she taught me how to draw. She was a keen artist and a real figure of inspiration in my life.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Green – I love being outdoors, and it always reminds me of the countryside.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would be travelling the world. I have quite an extensive bucket list, so I would almost certainly be continuing to tick a few more countries off my list.

Date you joined the School?
September 2007.

What do you do at Bethany?
I am Head of History and Politics, and Housemaster of The Orchard.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I spent ten years in a big state school near Dartford, the last five of which I was Head of Year, responsible for 210 Year 9 students.

What is your favourite music and why?
Elvis – if you need to ask why, you haven’t got the time to listen to the answer!

Why do you like working at Bethany?
The supportive atmosphere among pupils and staff is key. It’s also a beautiful part of Kent to be working in, especially when the sun is shining.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Music; I play guitar in a couple of bands. I also enjoy sport.

Who is your hero and why?
Churchill – a seriously flawed genius. You don’t have to be perfect to influence the world for the better.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
Touring the world as part of someone’s backing band. Someone like Pink would be good!

Date you joined the School?
September 2016.

What do you do at Bethany?
I am the Head of Business Economics, where myself and Mr Khan teach A level Business, A level Economics, A level Applied General and the new IFS Financial Capability courses at KS5 and GCSE Business Studies at KS4. I am also the assistant boarding master for The Orchard.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
Head of Business Economics at Simon Langton Girls’ Grammar, Canterbury.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
Novel: ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’, a timeless classic. Musician: ‘Coldplay’ – seen them live twice. Film: ‘The Fugitive’ as it has a bit of everything in there!

What is your favourite quotation and why?
Being an avid footballer, it is You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take. I think there’s some good life advice in there too.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Business Studies obviously – topical, interesting and fun!

Why do you like working at Bethany?
At Bethany the holistic development of the child is everything, which is a fantastic culture to have. The location is ideal for my own young family as well.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I am a huge Man Utd and Northern Ireland fan – which can have its good times as well as bad. I also enjoy travelling, I’ve been to 32 different countries so far with Vietnam being my favourite!

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Playing football at an international tournament in Sweden when I was 12. A certain Wayne Rooney was at the same tournament but I don’t think he amounted to much!

What is your favourite colour and why?
Green – because the world is built on stereotypes!

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I’d love to be a pilot but the cost to become one is astronomical so I settled on the old teaching!

Date you joined the School?
September 2018.

What do you do at Bethany?
At Bethany I teach Sport and I am the First Assistant for The Mount Boarding House.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
Before I came to Bethany I worked as a Cover Supervisor and an unqualified teacher of Science in a local state school.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film?
I thoroughly enjoy watching films. I do not have a specific favourite but if I had to whittle it down to three it would be Good Will Hunting, The Prestige and Remember the Titans.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“Carpe Diem” which means “seize the day”. The quote symbolises how one needs to look for opportunities in life and make the most of them each day.

What was your favourite subject in School and why?
My favourite subject at school was PE as this subject was made the most enjoyable by the teachers I had a school.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
The best thing about working at Bethany so far is the extremely friendly atmosphere around the site from both pupils and fellow staff.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I love to play lots of sports, specifically cricket and hockey.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
My favourite childhood memory would be going on walks with my grandparents during half terms and also spending lots of time with my family around Christmas.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Blue and I don’t know why!

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would like to be in a line of work to do with sport as this is my passion and where my interests lie.

Date you joined the School?
September 2011.

What do you do at Bethany?
I am the Head of Dyslexia and Learning Success and SENCO. 

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
For the past 10 years I have mainly been a full time Mum. Before that I was Director of Sport at The Abbey School in Reading.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte. I love the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. Favourite film: Chocolat. Yum yum! Music: Jack Johnson – mellow music with thoughtful lyrics.

The artist Sir Thomas Laurence is one of my ancestors.  Unfortunately I have not inherited any of his talent!

What is your favourite quotation and why?
May you live every day of your life. Because it makes me think about living in the moment and taking every opportunity that comes my way.

What was your favourite subject at school and why?
History, because I have always been fascinated by the past and different interpretations of the same events.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
It is such a friendly, welcoming, accepting place.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I enjoy going to the gym and taking part in exercise classes, but I spend most of my free time with my family enjoying being outdoors!

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Playing in the garden on a Sunday afternoon, smelling a roast dinner cooking!

What is your favourite colour and why?
Red because it is bright, strong and positive.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would like to train as a play therapist to work with young children.

Date you joined the School?
September 2014.

What is your favourite novel and why?
Wuthering Heights – true love isn’t always quite where you expect it to be.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
I am what I am both as a result of people who respected me and helped me, and of those who did not respect me and treated me badly. – Nelson Mandela.  I’m a firm believer in the idea that life is what you make of it, and that greatness and happiness can be found in the most unlikely places.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
English – of course! Though History came a close second.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
Because everyone is really, really friendly.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Horse riding, rugby (I don’t play anymore as I had a bit of a scary accident 10 years ago), reading, painting and drawing, theatre and playing Lego with my son.

What is your favourite School memory?
Leaving.  Not because I hated school, far from it, but leaving school with an amazing set of friends and a huge stash of brilliant memories knowing I was ready to have a go at being a ‘grown up’ was just the best feeling ever. I’ve never felt so lucky and ready for anything at any other time in my life.

What is your favourite colour and why?
A bit like music it is mood dependant. Purple makes me feel happy and powerful, yellow is always good for cheering me up and I like black for its formality.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
Be an astronaut.

Date you joined the School?
September 2021.

What do you do at Bethany?
I work within the DLS department supporting the pupils through the school years and academic subjects.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I worked in the retail industry for 25 years as a buyer and buyer manager with various High Street retailers such as Heals, House of Fraser & Fenwick focusing on non fashion.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
Book: Pride & Prejudice,  the wit – subtle and otherwise is still sharp.

Film: All the Presidents Men,  I enjoy the suspense & intrigue.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“What’s the worst that can happen”

Why do you like working at Bethany?
The atmosphere at the school is very positive and collaborative, everyone working for the success of the pupils.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Rifle Target Shooting

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Beach holidays at Wittering W.Sussex

What is your favourite colour and why?
Sage! I find it calming and warm

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
Travel more.  I love the Far East and discovering different cultures.

Date you joined the School?
September 1997.

What do you do at Bethany?
I teach English, Media Studies and DLS, look after my tutor group and also support my husband, Francie Healy, in his Headship.

Other responsibilities?
DLS teacher and Media Studies teacher.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I worked as a fund-raiser and event organiser for a charitable organisation that promoted goodwill and reconciliation between the divided communities of Ireland and Northern Ireland during ‘The Troubles’.

What is your favourite novel and why?
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte because each time I read it I discover something new. It is such a surprising story.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world – Nelson Mandela. It inspires others to value education so that they can engage and be part of an evolving world.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
It is situated on a beautiful campus and all who attend, whether they are staff or pupils, are really good people. I feel very lucky working in such a positive environment where everyone supports each other through life’s challenges.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
One Christmas morning, together with my three younger sisters, we ran into the bedroom of a great-aunt who was staying with us for the festive season. She whispered to me that she had spotted Father Christmas’ sleigh the night before as he landed on our roof. She observed a Japanese doll being taken from his sack and she wondered if it might be for me! You can imagine how delighted I was when I ran downstairs to find a beautiful Japanese doll waiting for me and how much I admired such a special lady who knew so much.

What is your favourite School memory?
The day that Mr Healy dressed as Barbie for the day – all in aid of charity of course!

Date you joined the School?
February 2022.

What do you do at Bethany?
I support the children in the classroom whilst training to become a Level 3 Teaching Assistant.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I was a housewife/homemaker and indeed I am still a mother of 4 teenagers! I also used to do dog sitting and dog walking.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
There is a huge satisfaction working at Bethany, helping the children to fulfil their potential both academically and socially, especially after the recent tough years they have endured when living in a COVID world.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I love all sport and I come from a very sport family. I also enjoy walks with my family and dogs, travel and cooking.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Christmas with the whole family, grandparents, aunts, cousins… everyone! It’s sad that those days don’t seem to exist any more.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I’d love to be a lawyer or a private detective!

Laura has been in the music department at Bethany since September 2022 and especially loves working with the school’s Music Scholars.

Laura’s passion for music teaching came from her inspiring A Level teacher and the wealth of extra-curricular activities that were on offer in the department. She studied Music at Canterbury Christ Church University before completing the Graduate Teacher Pathway to gain her QTS. Laura then completed her NQT year at Welling School, before deciding to take the opportunity to go travelling before ‘settling down’ into her career and starting a family. She travelled all over South East Asia, starting in China and then to Fiji and Australia.

Laura went on to be Head of Music at Westlands School in Sittingbourne in 2016, where she was able to make her mark by introducing a wealth of extra-curricular opportunities whilst building a great rapport with her pupils, something that she is very proud of.

Outside of work and family life, Laura is Musical Director of Youth Choir, Cadenza Vocal, and sings Alto in her local choir, Opus 32. She is also involved with music related aspects at her church, and has most recently joined a Theatre Production company as the Musical Director. Laura keeps very busy, and lives and breathes music!

Date you joined the School?
September 2013

What do you do at Bethany?
I teach Textiles and Art as well as being Assistant Head of Year 10 and 11 and Head of Kiplings, one of the competitive houses here at Bethany.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
Before I started work in Bethany I worked in a school in Scotland. Before that I was a freelance designer.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“What’s for you won’t pass you by.” – this was a saying my Granny used to say to me and is one I will always use.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
I used to love Art at school but I was also a massive fan of Craft and Design and also PE and those departments were where I spent most of my school life.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
Bethany is a lovely place to work and has a great community and family feel to it. I feel I am surrounded by supportive staff and am encouraged to be as creative as I can be as a teacher and as a person.

Who is your hero and why?
My Grandfather was such a positive, ambition and generous man with so many interesting and fascinating stories about his life. I adored him and he was without a doubt a real hero figure in my life.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
If I wasn’t a teacher I think I would want to be a doctor, although I don’t think I could handle people in pain!

Date you joined the School?
September 2012.

What do you do at Bethany?
I teach dance to KS3 pupils, lead GCSE Dance, choreograph the school musical productions and work with the dance scholars.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
Advanced Skills Teacher (Dance) for Warwickshire / Head of a large Dance department at a secondary school with Arts College Status in Leamington Spa.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
Dirty Dancing, because it’s a film I can watch over and over and not get bored with.   

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“My Mama always said, ‘Life was like a box of chocolates.  You never know what you’re gonna get.‘” – Forrest Gump.

It’s a simple but accurate insight on life which I can relate to as a chocolate lover!

What was your favourite subject at school and why?
English was my favourite subject as I enjoyed exploring new characters and writing extracts from their point of view. 

Why do you like working at Bethany?
It’s a small environment where everyone knows each other and the pupils are very polite.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Reading, theatre, exercise classes and family days out.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Performing ‘The Kids From Fame’ shows with my sisters in the garden to my parents and anyone who’d watch!

What is your favourite colour and why?
Bright pink as it’s so vibrant and cheerful.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
A primary school teacher.

Date you joined the School?
September 2019.

What do you do at Bethany?
I offer one to one support to the Sixth Form pupils with their A Level studies and also in-class support for the younger years. I also assist with the administration of the Exam Access Arrangements.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I was a Learning Support Assistant at Mayfield School. I am a qualified Speech Therapist but firstly spent many years working at Marks and Spencer assisting with their store developments and then working for a construction programme management company.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
‘The 101 Dalmatians’ by Dodie Smith and ‘Emma and I’ by Sheila Hocken… a strong dog theme here.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
‘Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.’ – Dalai Lama.

What was your favourite subject at School?
Maths and Geography.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
There is a real sense of community and great ethos.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Looking after our two little girls who keep me more than busy, walking our four-year chocolate Labrador called Coco, reading biographies, cooking and gardening.

What is your favourite colour?
Pink and Grey.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would love to train as a nutritionist or travel the world in luxury.

Date you joined the School?
January 2018.

 What do you do at Bethany?
Head of Art; teaching Art, Photography and Textiles.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I have taught Fine Art and Photography, with a specialism in Post 16 education. Before teaching, I worked for a contemporary furniture design company.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
My favourite artists include Frida Kahlo because I love Mexico, and her revolutionary spirit and sense of self; and I enjoy the saturated photographs of William Egglestone that capture the spirit of America at the time.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
It is quite a famous one, but Picasso said Every child is an artist. The problem is how to remain an artist once we grow up. I try to remember to keep that sense of wonder and fearlessness that I had as a child.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
English was my favourite subject; I loved expressing my ideas and imagination through language, and I had the most inspiring teacher named Mr Goodluck who used to be incredibly animated!

Why do you like working at Bethany?
When I first visited Bethany I was impressed with the warmth shown by staff and pupils, and felt that there was a wonderful sense of community. I am lucky to have a brilliant team within the Art department, and creative, talented pupils!

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I enjoy cooking, particularly spicy foods. I find it relaxing to create my own artwork in my free time, and particularly enjoy painting and photography; fortunately, I have job that allows me to do what I love every day!

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would like to live a life of leisure in Tuscany, close to the vineyards and Florence, and scoff copious amounts of truffle infused pasta! I would pretend to be an artist but would really just soak up my surroundings and let life slow down.

Date you joined the School?
September 2018.

What do you do at Bethany?
I teach overseas pupils who need to improve their English and I help them prepare for examinations to enter University. I also oversee the EAL department.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I worked in many different countries around the world including Brazil, Italy, Australia and New Zealand. More recently, I taught in schools in Tunbridge Wells and Wadhurst.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
My favourite novel is Nights at the Circus by Angela Carter as I enjoy the magical realism genre. The idea that the normal and the fantastical can co-exist appeals. I love the duets of Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong as their voices are so distinctive and yet combine effectively. Choosing a favourite film is a challenge, but Some Like It Hot always makes me laugh.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“Yesterday is history, tomorrow a mystery; today is a gift which is why we call it the present.” – Master Ugwei from Kung Fu Panda. It reminds me that it is important to live fully and treasure each moment.

What was your favourite subject at School?
English Literature was my favourite subject at school because of the vast array of writing to select from and the opportunity to analyse the works of great writers.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
It is a beautiful campus with stunning views and the pupils and staff are welcoming and friendly.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Reading, playing the guitar, learning languages, park running and helping my daughters with their homework.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Long hot summer holidays at my grandparents’ house on the North East coast of England. No matter how hot the day, the North Sea was always freezing.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Red as it is vibrant, dynamic and eye-catching.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to be doing?
I would like to be in a new country, sampling the life, culture, cuisine and learning the language.

When did you join Bethany?
August 2021.

What do you do at Bethany?
Work in the Bursary as the Finance Manager

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
Jane Eyre by Charlotte Bronte is a favourite of mine.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
I loved Maths and Science particularly as I love facts and figures – I think its just the way my mind works.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
Very friendly and nice atmosphere to work in.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Just love being outdoors so cycling and walking are my main hobbies.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Spending time with my grandad at the stables

What is your favourite colour and why?
Purple – its just a fab colour

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
Working with animals

Date you joined the School?
September 2009.

What do you do at Bethany?
I take care of the day to day running of Kendon boarding house looking after requirements of boarders.

What is your favourite quotation?
Live for today, you don’t know what may happen tomorrow!

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Human Biology because I found it interesting.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I like working at Bethany because it allows me to interact with many different people.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Motorcycling and seeing friends.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Green because it reminds me of Spring.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would like to be a nurse.

Date you joined the School?
January 2023.

What do you do at Bethany?
I support the Performing Arts department with all things technical and all Bethany live events.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I most recently worked in a small Kent primary school. Before that, I ran a performing arts school for children, providing evening and weekend classes.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film?
Any Disney film. If I had to choose just one it’d be Toy Story as it reminds me of my time spent working with Woody at Disneyland.

What is your favourite quote?
“Life’s no dress rehearsal.” It reminds you that there’s no second shot at life and to live life to the full now and enjoy it.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I perform and direct with an amateur theatre company in Medway.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
Travel the world exploring lots of different foods and cultures.

Having completed a PG Dip in Sports Management, Alasdair has over 20 years of coaching knowledge, understanding and experience in both school and grass roots level sport.

A passionate coach, who holds qualifications in cricket, hockey, and football, Alasdair most enjoys teaching pupils all the positive outcomes that sport can bring. He continues to play cricket, hockey and golf and enjoys watching rugby and singing too.

He gained representative cricket honours at minor county level in North Wales and his claim to fame is taking the wicket of West Indian cricket legend, Gordon Greenidge.

What do you do at Bethany?
I am the Housemaster of The Mount and I also see to the day to day running of the pool and help the pupils with both swimming and fitness.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
Before my time at Bethany I was a duty manager and pool manager at a large holiday resort. I also worked on the railway, maintaining the lines.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
Escape to Victory just because it’s a feel-good film for me.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
If at first you don’t succeed then try, try again. My nan always used to say it to us.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Physical Education – I just love anything to do with sport and fitness.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I like helping the pupils and it feels like one big happy family here.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
During my free time I enjoy sports such as boxing, running and general gym work. My family and I are members of English heritage and love to visit historical sites such as castles.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
That would be our yearly family camping trips to Scotland and Sussex.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Green, as it reminds me of the countryside and spring.  Also red as it’s the colour of my famous Arsenal F.C.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would like to live in Cornwall on my very own farm.

Date you joined the School?
January 2004.

What do you do at Bethany?
I help pupils in the classroom in both Design & Technology and Food & Nutrition Science.

What is your favourite artist and why?
Bob Marley, because I enjoy his music.

What is your favourite quotation?
Churchill – Never in the field of human conflict have so many owed so much to so few.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I like working at Bethany because it is a friendly environment.  It’s well situated and I enjoy my job as it enables me to help pupils to achieve their goals.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Motor racing and rugby.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Hop picking and harvesting them at my grandparents’ house.

What is your favourite school memory?
Being the 1^st XV Rugby captain at prep school.

Miguel has been involved in the industry of professional football for over thirty years, having enjoyed working with players across various age groups, and helping them improve to reach their full individual potential.

Miguel played for Yeovil Town and Dagenham & Redbridge in the National Conference before signing his first professional contract with Charlton Athletic aged 19. His professional playing career then continued with spells at Bristol City, Birmingham City, Wycombe Wanderers and Peterborough United.

Responsibilities since finishing his playing career have included time in professional academies, with roles including Under 16 Lead coach, Academy Manager and Academy Recruitment Manager at Leyton Orient, Charlton Athletic and Fulham. Miguel also currently oversees the recruitment of players in Kent for Crystal Palace.

Invited by the FA to assist in the development and implementation of a new Talent Identification in Recruitment, he has successfully recruited and coached current Premier League and English Football League players.

Miguel holds the ‘A’ licence management in recruitment, the ‘B’ licence in coaching as well as the FA Advanced Youth Modules.

Date you joined the School?
September 1999.

What do you do at Bethany?
I look after all IT equipment in the School.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I worked at a supermarket.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
CDT because I liked creating things.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
Because it is a very friendly place to work.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I like playing cricket and I love skiing.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Representing my country at Korfball.

What is your favourite School memory?
School skiing trips.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Blue and white.

Date you joined the School?
August 2013.

What do you do at Bethany?
I am the Headmaster’s PA.

Other responsibilities?
Office Manager.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
PA for a joinery company.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
Tomorrow is another day! (You can wipe the slate clean)

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Ceramics. I loved working with clay and making something out of it.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
Every day is different and knowing you have helped a pupil with even a little thing is a great feeling.

What is your favourite school memory?
Playing ‘Bulldog’ at break time.

Who is your hero and why?
My dad – I always look up to him.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
Sail around the world!

Date you joined the School?
September 2019.

What do you do at Bethany?
I run the library and look after the archives. I also help the DLS department with administrative tasks.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
After leaving school I trained as a software engineer and worked in that role for fifteen years before leaving to raise my family. I have had several part time roles since my children have been at school, one of them as an exam invigilator here at Bethany.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
I like listening to Coldplay and Pink.

What was your favourite subject at School?
I enjoyed Science because you were able to carry out experiments and dissections.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I like working at Bethany as it has a friendly atmosphere, and everyone is so welcoming.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I like being outdoors; walking and exploring new places. I enjoy Bedgebury as you can walk for five minutes and be away from the main hub and have a peaceful walk. It’s also a great place to take my dog! I’m also a local Cub Leader.

What is your favourite colour?
Teal

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I’d choose a profession that would help people. I’d also like to be in a cosy cottage in the Lake District, where you can then go out an explore the countryside.

Date you joined the School?
June 2009.

What do you do at Bethany?
I am the Housekeeper of the Orchard boarding house.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I was a Quality Control Manager

What is your favourite film and why?
Shawshank Redemption because I found it interesting.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
Art, because I enjoyed it and was good at it.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I like working at Bethany because it offers flexible hours and the people are very friendly.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I like spending time with my daughters, swimming, Moto GP and football.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would like to renovate old houses.

Date you joined the School?
April 2013.

What do you do at Bethany?
I work in The Mount boarding house as a Housekeeper.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I worked in a children’s nursery.

What is your favourite novel and why?
I enjoy the True Story books and read a lot of them, because I find them very interesting.

What was your favourite subject at school and why?
I enjoyed childcare and cookery and I was interested in working with children.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I enjoy being able to make a difference. I am always there to listen if someone has a problem.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I enjoy spending time with my family, taking lots of walks and going to country fairs.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Pink, because it reminds me of flowers.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would like to be working with people who I could help and be there for. I have done care work in the past and found it very rewarding.

Date you joined the School?
December 2013.

What do you do at Bethany?
I handle all new enquiries from prospective parents and guardians and coordinate all admissions to the School.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I worked as a customer operations coordinator organising adventure and volunteer programmes.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
Dream as if you’ll live forever, live as if you’ll die today – James Dean. Experiencing new people and places working in travel taught me to make the most of what life has to offer.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I spend time with my daughters and love to take them swimming. I enjoy cooking, keeping fit and visiting new places.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Creating talent shows with my sister every Christmas and making our entire family sit through them!

What is your favourite school memory?
Nothing can beat living in Puerto Rico for a year as part of my degree course – best year ever!

Who is your hero/heroine and why?
My dad. He works harder than anyone I know, outside in all weathers, and always made sacrifices for us. He is the life and soul of any party, too.

Date you joined the School?
January 2019.

What do you do at Bethany?
I work within the admissions team and primarily liaise with the local primary schools to inform them of Bethany Open Days, Masterclasses and all other events they can be involved in at Bethany School.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I was an I.T. Business Analyst for 10 years and was lucky to get to work for long periods of time in California, Argentina, Brazil and Bermuda. I met my husband in California.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
Shanghai Girls is my favourite book – I love it when a book makes you feel every breath and emotion of the characters. This book took me there. My favourite song is “Get into the Groove” by Madonna – the intro beats make me so nostalgic and feel good. My favourite artist, I have two, my daughters. Their drawings always make me smile. My favourite film is Pretty Woman. I love the soundtrack and the friendship and fairy-tale of it all. I also wish I had Julia Roberts’ legs!

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“A girl should be two things: classy and fabulous”.

What was your favourite subject at school and why?
History. I was just captivated and loved my teacher.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I love the team I work with and the ethos of the School.

What interests do you have outside of Bethany?
Family. I love to go for a walk around Scotney Castle with my family and have a cream tea. I also love horse riding.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Sailing a Hobycat with my Dad in Sardinia when I was eight. Lying on the canvas and watching the crystal clear water rush past and the wind and sun on my face.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Bright coral orange. I love the glow!

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would own a Horse Ranch in Montana USA, ride every day and have cook-outs in the hills with my family.

Date you joined the School?
August 2022

What do you do at Bethany?
Supporting pupils who feel anxious, upset or stressed and help them find strategies to aid with their wellbeing.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
A similar role in another secondary school.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
‘One Day’ by David Nichols – film and book are brilliant – it’s a great story

What is your favourite quotation and why?
‘I have never tried that before, so I think I should definitely be able to do that.’ By Astrid Lindgren

She is my favourite childhood author.

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
French and English – I loved learning other languages but also Music and Art.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
The pupils are brilliant.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I love the sea and enjoy swimming and paddle boarding. I also spend a lot of time with my family and friends.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
A holiday in France – building sandcastles and jumping in huge waves (huge for me because I was so little).

What is your favourite colour?
Blue, no reason other than that I really like it.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
Live by the sea (with a dog) and go for walks and swims.

Kathryn is a Netball Coach at Bethany School. She fell in love with the sport immediately after first stepping on the court at age 9 and has had a lifelong involvement with it since, playing across school, club and university teams.

It was at university whilst studying Chemistry that she also found a love for coaching, being captain of the university first team, coaching of the lower teams and officiating in London’s social leagues.

Now, Kathryn currently plays for Peregrine Falcons Netball Club across Maidstone, Canterbury and the County Leagues.

In her spare time, and apart from all things netball, Kathryn loves gardening and travelling.

Date you joined the School?
January 2013.

What do you do at Bethany?
I deal with data requests from teachers and senior management.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I was an English As A Foreign Language teacher at a local language school.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
The Shawshank Redemption is my favourite film. I love it because it is such a beautiful portrayal of the human spirit. One of my favourite books is Jane Eyre. It’s romantic, but I am very passionate about the heroine who is intelligent, warm and has a lot of integrity.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“My accomplishments? They will keep.” It’s from Jane Eyre and she is asked why she would settle for less than she could expect. I like her attitude to accept life as it is at the moment but certainly not giving up on the future.

What was your favourite subject at school and why?
English. It’s not my native language but I have come to love it like the language I was born into.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I like it for the support I have been given here – from the first day everyone has always been very friendly and helpful. There’s an open door policy throughout.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
My children – there’s not much time for anything else. Although I do read and try and pick up my guitar once in a while.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Summers spent at the local swimming pool in the warm summer sun.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Purple – no idea why.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I’d like to travel the world and teach English in different places.

Lisa began her swimming career at age 10, when she raced for Sussex County. By age 12, she was swimming in national competitions and had her first international swimming competition at 13. She was then selected to swim for Great Britain and she did so from the age of 13 to 20 years old.

Lisa’s first GB event was in Russia for the World Youth Games, she was then part of Team GB for the Athens 2004 Olympic Games where she competed in the women’s 4×100 freestyle relay and finished 6th in the final. During her swimming career Lisa held the junior and senior British record for the 100m individual medley and the senior British record for the 50m fly.

Lisa has since completed her level 1, 2 and 3 coaching qualification and now currently coaches at Hastings Seagull Swimming Club, as well as being Head Coach of the Sussex Development Pathway for age group swimmers in 2023.

Lisa still swims now, and races within Masters Swimming, currently competing at Sussex County level.

Date you joined the School?
August 2022.

What do you do at Bethany?
I support the art department by helping pupils with the practical aspects of their artwork and overseeing the kiln, the darkroom and all the other many practical aspects of running a thriving and busy art department. I work three days a week and combine this with my work as an artist.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I’ve worked as an artist since 2014 and I’m also a qualified art teacher – I taught art for ten years previously.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
That’s very difficult to answer, I love so many and it changes fairly frequently but I do love an artist called Kiki Smith for the way she tells stories in her artwork and her use of symbolism and motifs from the natural world.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“Morning to night I am never done with looking. I mean… standing around as though with your arms open.” I love this quote by Mary Oliver because it captures exactly how I feel about looking at trees, plants, the sky; all the nature around me. I always want to drain every last drop of looking out of every day. It might have something to do with being an artist!

What was your favourite subject at School and why?
I loved Art and English Literature. I loved the creativity and the search for the more subtle and hidden meanings that both subjects share.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I love Bethany because it has such a kind and welcoming atmosphere.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Nature and art are my main interests. I love walking in the countryside, visiting beautiful gardens, and creating my own work.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
I didn’t enjoy my primary school years very much but I have one very happy memory of sitting outside working on a batik piece. I think it was the one time I felt happy and content at primary school! I’m sure this is because it combined my love of creating with being outside in nature.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Hmmm, I love them all.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would like to have some land to look after, where I could combine growing meadows with some rewilded areas and I’d have a cabin studio there, where I could paint.

Date you joined the School?
January 2021

What do you do at Bethany?
I am the Senior Sister at the Wellness Centre working with Deputy Sister Penny. We take care of the health needs of all the pupils and staff at Bethany.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I worked as a Nurse Adviser for AXA PPP Healthcare. Before that I was a Senior Sister in the Accident and Emergency department in Tunbridge Wells hospital.

What is your favourite novel / music / artist / film and why?
I am a soppy romantic and my favourite film is Jerry Maguire. I love that he finally realises the person that matters most is the person that he has let go.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
“Weeds are flowers too once you get to know them” – Eeyore (A A Milne)

What was your favourite subject at School?
Art was my favourite subject at School. I love colour and drawing. It says so many things without words. I also had an amazing teacher.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
I feel that the School genuinely care about each pupil and member of staff. It is not just about education at Bethany, its about the whole person.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
I bake and decorate cakes and look after our three dogs and a corn snake. I love baking and have made many wonderful creations including a tree trunk, a Warburtons lorry and a Nike trainer.

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Pantomimes at Christmas. We got together with extended family to laugh out loud.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Blue is my favourite colour because its calming like the ocean or the sky.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you do?
I would be baking and decorating cakes. I would also be caring for my animals and other people’s.

Date you joined the School?
October 2021.

What do you do at Bethany?
I’m a school nurse.

What did you do before you came to Bethany?
I have been a children’s nurse for over 30 years so have had many jobs, mainly working on children’s wards in hospitals. My last job was a children’s community nurse looking after unwell children in their homes.

What is your favourite novel/music/artist/film and why?
My favourite film is ‘Stand by Me’, which is actually based on a Stephen King book. I first watched the film when I was 15 years old and I loved the story based on childhood friendships – I still love the film now.

What is your favourite quotation and why?
This took me ages as I could not think of one, and I decided to go with this – ‘Choose to be optimistic, it feels better’ – Dalai Lama.

What was your favourite subject at school and why?
I loved PE and sports and was part of the netball team.

Why do you like working at Bethany?
Being able to support pupils so they can get the most out of their day and enjoy being at school.

What interests do you have outside Bethany?
Camping with my family, walking and talking with my friends and going to the theatre – I love musicals!

What is your favourite childhood memory?
Living on a farm surrounded by fields and sheep.

What is your favourite colour and why?
Orange – it reminds me of sunshine and I love bright colours.

If you were not doing what you are doing now, what would you like to do?
I would love to work in a bridal shop and help create the perfect wedding – I love weddings.

Tracey has played netball since the age of 9, has umpired since the age of 17 and has represented Kent County at Under 21 level.

She has belonged to and helped run the same club, Wealden, throughout her entire career. Having belonged to Wealden, based in Kent, since 1988, Tracey has played her part in helping them achieve National Clubs Division 1 status, as well as garnering a wealth of knowledge and experience assisting the coaching of their 100+ junior members.

Tracey currently still plays, and is part of the Wealden Senior Social team.