Staff

Career History:

I started as a PE Co-ordinator in a State Primary School, then went on to be Director of Sport at a Prep School 1-13 years. Following that I was Director of IT at an Independent School 3-18. Next I became Deputy Head at a Prep School 3-11, followed by Head at the same school. I then moved to be Head at a further Prep School 3-11 before coming to Pennthorpe.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Watching the children perform with the Horsham Brass Band and seeing them totally elated and engaged with their own performance and the audience’s pleasure.

Career History:

I started out my teaching career in a prep school near London as a History and English teacher before moving on to become a Head of History and teacher of English at another prep school. I joined Pennthorpe 7 years ago as Head of English and Head of Year 8. My role developed further as I became Head of Year 7 & 8. This year, I became the Assistant Head Pastoral.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Working with the most amazing colleagues everyday!

Career History:

I have been teaching now for 20 years and I still love it as much as the day I first stepped into a classroom. I have spend 13 of these years at Pennthorpe and have experienced a few different roles here. I taught Reception for many years but have also taught Year 2 and Year 3. I helped develop the woodland and have been involved in Forest School from the very beginning. I love being the Head of Pre-Prep and enjoy the variety, creativity and fun each day brings. The children are at the centre of all we do in Pre-Prep and there is no better place to be!

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Each and every nativity play I have ever had the privilege to be part of at Pennthorpe! There is nothing more special than seeing the children singing their hearts out dressed at angels, shepherds and the odd donkey!

Career History:

I have been a teacher at Pennthorpe for 10 years. I started part time doing a maternity cover for Mrs Crossley and then became full time. This year I became Head of the Senior Years. Prior to this I was Head of Girls’ Games and Head of Year 5 and 6 for a number of years. I have been a teacher of English at Pennthorpe for the last 6 years.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

There are many but if I was pushed it would be coaching a group of girls to qualify for the U11 National Netball Finals in 2016. The whole Year group of girls made up the squad of 10!

Career History:

Previously I was an IT Trainer and Trainng Manager, as well as a Trainer Development Manager. Following that I was a Secondary School Teacher, teaching Science and Technology.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Having the privilege everyday of working with children in order to enable and facilitate that ‘lightbulb moment’.

Career History:

My career started in the City before I had my three sons, when I then became a full time mother. I was then both a parent and member of staff at another local Prep School for 20 years. My most recent role there was as Head’s PA for 7 years, before I joined Pennthorpe in September 2019.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

A little too early to say, but I am absolutely enjoying everything Pennthorpe!

How long have you been at Pennthorpe?

Since 1st September!

What makes you happy?

Feeling I have done my best, being out in the woods and painting

Why are you doing your job?

I love children: getting to know them and finding out their individual likes and dislikes. I enjoy watching them grow in confidence.

Career History:

I received a letter from the Head at Pennthorpe asking if I wanted to come and be a Gap student for a year. A year turned into a year and then into 2 full years. In this time I became a qualified TA.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

My best Pennthorpe moment was coming back after my first term as a member of staff and feeling part of the school. As a Gap student you work with all the students in the school, this meant walking around the school everyone would say hello to me and make me happy on a daily basis. To this day, although I don’t teach them anymore, the older children still ask me how I am and how my day way. That’s what makes Pennthorpe such a special place.

Special things about me:

I was a student here from 2001 to 2012 and was taught by Mr McConnell, Mrs Tusler, Mrs Crossley and Mrs Collinson-James! I spent the night in the Amazon Rainforest whilst in Peru. I used to sing with my Dad’s band called ‘Wishful Thinking’ on the bandstand in Horsham.

Career History:

I was originally a Matron when the school had boarders which was over twenty five years ago. When boarding ceased I trained to work in Early Years just as Pennthorpe opened a Nursery. I have since always worked with the youngest children which I really enjoy, in fact some of the little ones parents were my boarders which is great.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

I have had many excellent moments at Pennthorpe meeting lots of great parents of which some have been my musical idols and of course watching children grow and develop as little individuals.

Career History:

Prior to Pennthorpe I spent 10 years in Secondary Schools as a Teaching Assistant and Cover Supervisor, providing Special Needs and transitional support. I also was responsible for organising the Summer School for Yr 6. Prior to that I was a Teaching Assistant in a Primary School, providing Emotional Literacy support (ELSA).

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Becoming the Beehive Leader.

Something special about me:

I completed the couch to 5K during lockdown and lived to tell the tale!

Career History:

I have worked at Pennthorpe for almost 8 years. Previously I worked in local primary schools.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

My best Pennthorpe moment was directing 2 Early Years summer shows.

Career history:

After a 23 year career as a Musician in Her Majesties Footguards, performing globally and sharing the stage with the likes of Stevie Wonder, Elton John and Robbie Williams, and playing all State occasions including the two Royal weddings, I’ve seen first hand the effect that music has on people at the highest level. Since leaving two years ago I have been a freelancing bass trombonist playing with the Glenn Miller orchestra, the Syd Laurence Orchestra, the World Famous Elvis tour, the Denmark Street big band and many, many more.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

I look forward to discovering my best Pennthorpe moment!

Career History:

I have taught Reception through to Year 6 in a range of schools in Surrey and West Sussex since 2003. I am currently training to be a counsellor and would like to extend this to a children’s counsellor and psychotherapist.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Always the last day of term – looking at the children and seeing what an impact you have had on them over the past three terms.

Career History:

I trained as a Chartered Surveyor working in London and later Guildford. Work included commercial and residential property investment and management. More recently I had a change of heart and direction and began working with children. I started in the Learning Support department working on a one-to-one basis with children and assisting them in class. I now work as a teaching assistant in Reception Class which I love.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Going home at the end of my first day knowing that I had made the best decision ever to work with children, I knew that I would never look back!

Career history:

Having graduated from The University of Reading this summer, I joined the Pennthorpe team in September. I studied Primary Education, specialising in English, and focused my final year research project on gender identity and the impact that this has on a child’s school experience. In September 2019 I travelled to Finland as part of a teaching exchange, it was a joy to combine my love of travel with my passion for education.

Best Pennthorpe moment:

Seeing the children receiving certificates and being so proud of themselves and their achievements.

Special thing about me:

I spend my summer holidays volunteering with charities at music festivals.

Career History:

After leaving University with a degree in Food Marketing, I spent a few months working in a secondary school as I waited for an opening to join an airline. I worked as long haul cabin crew for 11 years and travelled ; it was heaven. After having children I found that it was home where I wanted to be… Once my daughter began in Honey Pot back in 2003 I just knew I wanted to join Pennthorpe too! Four years later I did. Where have the last 11 years gone. I have worked in many parts of the school from Honey Pot and now even teaching Food Technology with the Year 8. The majority of my time is spent as a Teaching Assistant in Year 2.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

There have been many but my most memorable moment was when our Head girl stood up and spoke so beautifully at Speech Day.

Career History:

I worked for Guildford Borough Council for 20 years in the Environmental Health and Licensing Department, after taking voluntary redundancy I took a position at Loxwood Medical Practice.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Attending the Christmas Carol Service at Christ’s Hospital

Career History:

I have over 11 years of experience working in Early Years and have taught Year 1 since 2008.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Each time a child brings in a letter/card/picture etc for me.

Career History:

I started my career as a Year 5 teacher in South London before moving to an independent school in Putney as a Year 2 teacher and Head of Lower School Drama. I stayed in my role for 7 years before we relocated to West Sussex to be nearer to family and friends. Pennthorpe felt like home as soon as I started in my role here and I plan on staying here for many years to come!

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

When we created Narnia in the Pennthorpe Woods and all climbed through the wardrobe to find the White Witch!

Career History:

16 years at Pennthorpe and loving it.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

During an art lesson on our topic which was dinosaurs, a little boy was having trouble drawing his. His friend said to him”why don’t you ask Mrs Crossman to help you because she was alive when the dinosaurs were on our planet”!

Career History:

After finishing my degree at the University of Chichester I started my new job at Pennthorpe School.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Everyday I have a new favourite moment. But being able to make a child smile and enjoy themselves will always be a lasting memory.

Career History:

Before commencing my career at Pennthorpe I taught at several local State schools. Once at Pennthorpe I have undertaken many roles including being a Year 1, 3 and 4 class teacher, Assistant Head of Lower School and Assistant Head, Assessment, Reporting and Data. More recently I have gone back to my roots and once again I am very much enjoying teaching, both as a Year 3 class teacher and as a Music specialist in the Pre Prep.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Every day brings special moments, but I love it when a child feels so comfortable, happy and secure in your care that they call you ‘Mum’. Seeing the children’s eyes light up and sparkle when they are singing and music making makes me tingle.

Career History:

I have worked for the last 14 years in schools covering reception up to year 3. I find the job so rewarding, watching those lightbulb moments ….when it just clicks!

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Can’t believe in my first year at Pennthorpe there have been so many great events to choose from .. sports day, Year 3 museum and tea party!! But my favourite has to be the Year 3 sleepover! Seeing the delight on the children’s faces all day in the woods and listening to the giggles as they eventually all went to sleep!

Career History:

After a career in the airlines and then some time at home looking after my children when they were young, I qualified as a teaching assistant and have been working at Pennthorpe since 2011.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

My best Pennthorpe moment was at last year’s staff panto watching so many children laughing hysterically as the teachers clowned around on the stage!

Career History:

Been at Pennthorpe since 1898.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Finally, after years of torture, almost managing to parallel ski.

Career History:

I joined Pennthorpe in 2017 as an NQT and have loved working here since!

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

It’s tricky to pick just one moment, but I think completing my first year of teaching and seeing how much progress my class had made stands out. It’s very hard to say goodbye to your class at the end of the year, but it’s also incredibly rewarding to see how far they’ve come and what a difference you have made!

Career History:

After spending over 20 years working in European Medical Affairs and Compliance in the Pharmaceutical Industry, I decided it was time to have some fun, so I retrained to become a teacher 5 years ago. Since then I have tried to really show the students the fun side of Applied Science – experiments in the lab!

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

The ‘exploding Jelly Baby experiment’ in the lab – my lab coat had to go for a deep clean after that one. Being able to teach students science through ‘awe and wonder’ moments is so much fun.

Career History:

My first job after leaving university was teaching English at the University of Dijon in France. This convinced me both that I wanted to make teaching my career and also that I also needed to learn how to do it properly! I completed my PGCE at Goldsmiths College in London which was a fantastic place to study. I then took at teaching post in a secondary school in Kent where I stayed for three years and became Head of Languages after 18 months. From there I went on to lead the MFL department in a school in Guernsey for five happy years.

Having spent five years on a very small island, I was ready for a change and decided to take a break from the classroom. I moved to London and worked for two years in a big law firm in the city using my language skills liaising with foreign insurance companies and lawyers. Although I enjoyed many aspects of being a city worker, I soon found that I desperately missed being in the classroom. However, it was during this time that I met Mr Parker and we decided to get married and move to live in France.

In France I taught business English 1:1 to adults for six years when we decided it was time to move back to England. By this time our son was five years old. I applied for the post at Pennthorpe and had my first interview sitting in our kitchen in rural France using Skype which was relatively new in 2013. I have not looked back since.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

I have loved every minute of the last seven years at Pennthorpe and now have a lot of ‘best moments’ to choose from. There are many things which mark milestones on the Pennthorpe journey; performances, carol services and citizenships as well, of course, as exams. My favourite milestone has to be the annual trip to France and Belgium which is a mélange of French culture and World War I history. In just four days, it is wonderful to see the pupils’ eyes being opened to another culture and their heads starting to understand the enormity and significance of the events of 1914-1918.

Career History:

I had a career change and I have now been teaching for 11 years, which I absolutely love…and bear in mind I previously worked in a brewery for 13 years! I was previously the Head of Science at our local rivals, Belmont, for over six years.

Best Pennthorpe Moments:

‘Coral and Arctic Live lessons where we join scientists in the Caribbean and Antarctica by live satellite to carry out experiments and ask questions.

When we invite ‘Kinetic Theatre’ to perform a live, interactive, Science based production. Next year it will be ‘The Bunsen Towers Mystery’

When we do demonstrations such as The Exploding Pumpkin, Elephants toothpaste, Screaming Jelly Baby or a water rocket or a methane rocket

We visit Nower Wood for a day of fieldwork and sampling.

Special thing about me:

I have donated Bone Marrow twice.

Career History:

I joined Pennthorpe in September having worked with computers in some capacity for over 20 years. I started off as a web developer in Scotland for 10 years before teaching TEFL in London and then starting my teacher training in 2013. Since then I’ve worked as a class teacher in a primary school, computing leader for a MAT and computing teacher in a secondary school. I’m delighted to be here and I’m looking forward to helping develop technology across the school.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the children and finding out what makes them tick. I’m also excited about entering the school into some computing competitions and seeing how well we do.

Special thing:

I love the great outdoors and regularly go on walks, kayak and I recently started learning to sail. Also, I once came third in a fancy dress competition judged by Sir Alex Ferguson who gave me my prize of 50p.

Career History:

Before joining Pennthorpe in 2016 I was Head of Art at a Secondary School, teaching up to A level in a range of arts subjects, as well as responsible for Design and Technology. My role involved preparing pupils for GCSE and A levels in Applied Art, Fine Art, Graphic Design, Textiles and Photography as well as portfolios for Foundation Studies and university qualifications.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

There have been many but probably accompanying Year 7 on their residential to Snowdonia in 2019.

Career History:

I started my career at Rugby School and then moved to Tower House Preparatory School, where I was Head of Physical Education & Head of Year 6 for 7 years.  I moved to Pennthorpe, and took over my current role in 2016.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Watching my form group work together and scale a mountain during the Year 7 Residential in Snowdonia.

Career History:

Originally, I was a semi-professional rugby player working towards a career in accountancy but changed course when I decided that wasn’t for me. I studied “Elite Athlete Development” at university so switched to a career as a P.E. and Games Teacher at Brambletye School in East Grinstead. Whilst there I developed a passion for the Humanities and began teaching bits of History, Geography and R.S. up to Year 8.  My position at Pennthorpe allows me to pursue my passion of teaching the Humanities as well as continuing to contribute on the sports field.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

So far, my first day. All the staff and pupils were incredibly welcoming and it was such a relief as I was very nervous.

Special thing about me:

I am a qualified butcher.

Career History:

I’ve spent 26 years working in schools and 17 years at Pennthorpe School.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

All the moments when children who needed support, flourish again.

Career History:

I started as Head of Hockey at Sutton High School, then moved to Pennthorpe where I am currently Head of Girls’ Games. I’ve also been a hockey coach at Christ’s Hospital School.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Alpe d’huez Ski Trip 2019. I enjoyed a glorious weeks skiing with cracking group of staff, pupils and parents.

Career History:

My main background is in dance and I have worked as a freelance dance teacher for various theatre and dance schools in recent years. I’ve also worked in a secondary school as part of a thriving performance arts department, helping students to achieve their GCSE’s in dance and drama and choreographing some epic school productions!

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Putting on ‘Pantastic’ with the fabulous year 3&4’s.

Career History:

I joined Pennthorpe in 2008. Prior to this I had taught Maths across Key Stages 3 to 5 and was KS3 Maths coordinator at a co-educational state Secondary school in Surrey. During my time at Pennthorpe I have been lucky enough to teach across both the Maths and Science departments, I have held various positions including Head of Science, Head of Maths, Head of Year, Head of Upper School and Head of Future Schools. Prep school life is always busy but never boring!

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Every Prizegiving ceremony I’ve ever attended. The happiness for, and pride in, the pupils I feel is immense. I’ve never got through a Prizegiving without shedding a tear yet!

Career History:

I was a Freelance Graphic Designer before retraining as a DT Teacher and enjoying 13 years at Worthing High School. Currently part-time at Pennthorpe and very happy to be here!

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Our Goblin electric cars being overall winners at Plumpton in May 2019. It was a fantastic experience for everyone involved.

Career History:

40+ years at Pennthorpe!

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Helping pupils with their DT projects

Career History:

I have worked in an office environment, in the past, but prefer working with children, which I have done for twenty four years.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Becoming a Pennthorpe citizen.

Career History:

I graduated from Aberdeen University with Spanish and Latin American studies. I began as a Deputy House Mistress for Sixth form girls in a boarding school. I then completed my PGCE and taught Spanish in two Secondary Schools, moving into Adult Education when I had children. I have moved abroad twice with my husband’s job and I have taught English as a foreign language to immigrants in order to obtain a Green Card, tutored for the International Baccalaureate and devised my own Spanish course for expats. I am returning to my love of English in my role as Librarian at Pennthorpe and hope to enthuse the children with a love of reading.

Best Pennthorpe moment:

Every day has a magical moment!

Special thing about me:

One of my paintings got exhibited at the National Gallery when I was 11yrs old.

I lived with an indigenous tribe in the mountains of the Atacama Desert in Chile for a year.

How long have you been at Pennthorpe?

15 years

What makes you happy?

Food, fizz and my family

Why are you doing  your job?

I can make a difference working with children on a 1:1 basis and although sometimes it takes a while, it is worth the wait.

How long have you been at Pennthorpe?

3 years

What makes you happy?

I enjoy creative work with children through the performing arts, music as well as helping dyslexic children to learn.

How long have you been at Pennthorpe?

5 years

What makes you happy?

My family and dog

Why are you doing your job?

I enjoy encouraging children to reach their full potential and keeping myself young.

How long have you been at Pennthorpe?

18 months

What makes you happy?

Laughter, friends and family and of course, my dog!

Why are you doing your job?

I thoroughly enjoy seeing children achieving after I have helped them access their learning within the classroom

Career History:

I have been a qualified accountant for over 20 years, working in accountancy practices with a specialism for charity and school clients. I joined Pennthorpe as Assistant Bursar in October 2019.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

I love the welcoming, family atmosphere at Pennthorpe.

Special thing about me:
As a member of my local Rock Choir group I have recorded two songs in the iconic studio 1 at Abbey Road Studios. It is the world’s largest recording space and it was so special to be there during the 50th anniversary weekend of The Beatles ‘Abbey Road’ recording with over 150 of my fellow Rockies. Our songs were produced by Kipper, who has previously worked with artists such as Stevie Wonder and Sting.

I did work in a chocolate factory (although my name is not Charlie, nor am I an Oompa Lumpa!)

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

My great passion lies in education and seeing children realising their potential, and the life-changing opportunities that it provides – being a part of that process is my best Pennthorpe moment.

Career History:

I was previously an IT and Management Consultant, working across lots of different industries and across the world. I then settled into pharmaceuticals, where I worked as a Project Manager. Since having children I moved in to education and prior to starting at Pennthorpe was a Business Manager at a state primary school.

Best Pennthorpe Moment:

Hearing the rock choir, accompanied by the Horsham Brass Band, do a medley from The Greatest Showman. The buzz in the room from all the performers and the audience was spine tingling.

Special thing about me:

I have scuba-dived with great white shakes off the coast of South Africa and I have a Black belt in Tae Kwan do.

Career History

This is my second stint working at Pennthorpe and I am so happy to be back! I worked here for 10 years previously and experienced all different areas of life at Pennthorpe from Sport and Performing Arts to Science and History in all school years.

Best Pennthorpe Moment

There are so many to choose from…I would have to say watching children grow in confidence and perform on the stage in assemblies, Soirees, Productions and House competitions.

Special Thing about Me

I have watched myself in a Blockbuster Movie at the cinema!

How long have you been at Pennthorpe?

Since the mid 1980’s

What makes you happy?

Being with pleasant people in a pleasant atmosphere

Why are you doing your job?

Getting things done gives me great pleasure