Back in March, one of the most hotly contested auction lots at the Friends of Pennthorpe Ball was the chance to become Head for a Day — and earlier this term, our winning bidder, Mrs Barber, stepped into Mr Murray’s shoes to experience life on the other side of the school gates. From morning greetings to Innovation Week presentations, from phonics in Beehive to big ideas for wellbeing spaces, Mrs Barber embraced every moment. Here, she shares her reflections on a truly unforgettable day leading the Pennthorpe community.
A Day in the Head’s Chair: My Inspiring Day at Pennthorpe
By Mrs Barber
What a day! Stepping into the role of Head at Pennthorpe was nothing short of inspiring — full of energy, creativity, warmth and genuine joy at every turn.
My morning began with a cheerful check-in and a visitor lanyard (official business!). Lauren was on hand to talk me through the day ahead, and then I joined Mr Murray at the front entrance to welcome families as they arrived. Seeing the children greeted with such enthusiasm and care was the perfect introduction to what makes Pennthorpe so special — every child stepping into school with a smile.
Mr Murray and I had a fantastic chat in his office, where he generously answered all my questions about the school’s ethos, culture and plans for the future. It was clear from the start that Pennthorpe is a school bursting with ambition, heart and a real sense of community.
My first stop was Beehive — a hive in every sense! Children were deeply engaged in hands-on activities, and I watched a brilliant numeracy session where laughter, turn-taking and teamwork were just as present as counting and problem-solving. James, the teacher, made learning look effortless and fun.
Next up was a Jolly Phonics session, led with infectious energy by Penni. The children were captivated — singing, moving and learning through constant interaction. Their focus was impressive, and their enthusiasm was off the charts!
I was briefly invited to join the children for snack time (tempting!), but before I could accept, I was whisked away to admire their colourful seaside paintings proudly displayed on the wall — they couldn’t wait to show me, and rightly so.
Breaktime brought a burst of outdoor excitement. The play spaces at Pennthorpe are just wonderful — full of opportunities for imaginative and active play. I chatted with Mrs Bell as the children laughed, climbed and explored every inch of their outside world.
One of the most exciting parts of my day was meeting Mrs Partridge to hear about her plans for a new Wellbeing Hub — a calm, cosy space where children can take a breather from the busyness of school life. We shared ideas, looked at the children’s suggestion boards, and dreamt up realistic, creative possibilities that I’m really excited to see come to life. We also explored “The Attic,” a fantastic space just for Years 7 and 8. It already offers a more grown-up vibe, but with a few simple additions, it has the potential to be a truly special space for the oldest pupils in the school.
In Reception, I joined the children in a shiny fish craft session, part of their under-the-sea topic. I also had the joy of reading their descriptions of sea creatures — imaginative, descriptive and full of personality. Their pride in their work was so clear and so deserved.
In the second Reception class, the energy was just as lively — children were building, playing, painting and collaborating in all corners of the classroom. The learning felt exciting, engaging and truly child-led.
My next stop? A lively Year 1 French lesson with Mrs Ngueudarn. The children were learning the names of picnic items using actions, visuals and plenty of repetition. It was a multisensory language adventure, and the children loved every second of it.
Over in the DT room with Mrs Bagdone, creativity was in full swing for Innovation Week. Children from different year groups were teaming up on product designs in the hope of having their ideas brought to life by a real furniture company! It was amazing to see them collaborate, problem-solve and present like professionals.
Later, I was joined by Tristan, a proud Year 8 student, for a walk around the school. As he reflected on his 8 or 9 years at Pennthorpe, it was clear just how much the school has meant to him. He pointed out favourite spaces, shared stories, and spoke with real pride — a testament to the impact this school has on its pupils.
In the Clock Block, the Innovation Week buzz continued — I saw one group plan how to get four aeroplane tyres from the UK to New Zealand (logistics and presentation skills in action!), while another student pitched an invention to keep dogs entertained when their owners are busy. The ideas were clever, original and confidently delivered.
By the end of the day, I was filled with admiration. The school is bursting with creativity, positivity and purposeful learning. The staff are kind, passionate and endlessly dedicated. And the children? Just incredible — curious, confident and full of joy.
I also loved learning about the history of the building and the evolution of Pennthorpe over the years. It’s a place rooted in tradition, but with its eyes firmly on the future.
Thank you to everyone who welcomed me so warmly. It was an unforgettable day — and I’m still smiling from it.
