Meet the Staff

QUALIFICATIONS

BA(Hons) PGCE

EXPERIENCE

Chris’s experience in independent schools is extensive with previous roles of Deputy Head, Head of Maths and Head of Boarding in Somerhill Prep, Moulsford Prep, Dean Close St John’s School and Cheltenham College. Chris has also experienced working for the Independent School examination Board, developing the ISEB Maths Curriculum and examination papers. Chris has even spent a stint as an ‘Academy and Community Rugby Coach’ for London Wasps RFC.

VISION

Chris is an advocate for, and creator of, progressive wellbeing programmes and concepts, and carries a keen belief that kindness, collaboration, ambition and reflection underpins a happy and rewarding environment.

INTERESTS

As a keen rugby, football and cricket supporter, Chris can often be found on the Pennthorpe fields, or our state-of-the-art MUGA, supporting Pennthorpe during the sporting fixtures on a regular basis. In his spare time, Chris is also studying for an MBA in Educational Leadership.

Qualifications

BA (Hons) Primary Education and Teaching with Specialism in Modern Foreign Languages, TEFL

Career History

After moving to England at the age of 18, I studied at the University of Chichester to become a qualified teacher. I worked in a primary school for five years on the South coast in sunny Bognor Regis, where I was subject lead of Modern Foreign Languages and oversaw the provision for children with English as an additional language, before finding Pennthorpe in 2022. I have had the most fantastic time here and love everything about Pennthorpe.

Best Pennthorpe Moment

My first day – everyone was so friendly and welcoming.

Something About Me

I am passionate about languages and am currently learning my 4^th and 5^th !

CAREER HISTORY

After graduating from The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, I worked as a freelance Stage Manager for companies such as Opera North, Northern Ballet Theatre, Grange Park Opera and finally, Welsh National Opera, where I also helped to develop their Education and Outreach programme. Tired with living out of a suitcase and keen to continue work in education, I moved to a local prep school where I began my teaching career and worked alongside my husband as the boarding housemistress.

BEST PENNTHORPE MOMENT

My first residential trip with Year 5 to High Ashurst.

SOMETHING ABOUT ME

I have been an extra in two films!

Qualifications

BSc (Hons) PGCE RCYT

Career History

Victoria has worked across the primary years as a teacher and Year Leader. She has also worked as a new teacher mentor and championed pupil mental health in her previous roles. Since having her sons Vic trained as a specialist children’s yoga teacher, presenting at the Om Yoga Show in Alexandra Palace and writing for many notable magazines. Victoria is now excited to be joining the Beehive and helping our little Pennthorpians take their early steps in their education journey.

Best Pennthorpe Moment

Meeting all the new Beehive children at transition day has been a highlight so far and I can’t wait see watch them grow in confidence and skill this year!

Qualifications

BEd (Hons), PGCert SPLD (Dyslexia) 

Career History

I qualified as a teacher in 1996 and began my career as a class teacher at a primary school in Chessington. After gaining valuable experience, I transitioned into Special Educational Needs (SEN) teaching, where I discovered my passion for supporting diverse learners. I have been a part of the Pennthorpe community since September 2003 and cherish the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the role, where no two days are ever the same.

Best Pennthorpe Memory

Competing in the ‘dance off’ of Sports Day 2021 against then Year 8, Charlie B. (I was robbed!) 

Special thing about me

I have learned ballroom and Latin dance for over 13 years: ‘Yes, Sir, I can boogie’ – well, Waltz, Quickstep, Jive and Cha-Cha-Cha, actually. 

Qualifications

BA (Hons) PGCE

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 as Pennthorpe’s Director of Sport in 2016.

Best Pennthorpe Moment

Taking my Year 7 form to Snowdonia in 2019 and helping them conquer their fears in freezing cold water and up the top of high and windy mountains. 

Special Thing About Me

If I could keep any animal as a pet, I would choose to keep a Penguin. I once held a baby one at Berlin Zoo and have always wanted one since! 

Qualifications

BA (Hons) PGCE

Career History

I joined Pennthorpe straight after finishing my degree at the University of Chichester, and have loved every minute of it!

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.

QUALIFICATIONS

BSc Environmental Management, QTS, MA Early Years Education, Forest School Level 3

CAREER HISTORY

I began my teaching career at an independent school in South London, where I spent seven years teaching in Reception, Nursery, and Year One classes. During this time, I completed a Masters in Early Years Education and became a Forest School Level 3 lead. Following this, I took on the role of Head of EYFS, Lower School, and Outdoor Learning at a school in Richmond. Passionate about the outdoors, I am excited to develop the Outdoor Learning provision at Pennthorpe, making the most of the fantastic woodlands!

Qualifications

BA (Hons) PGCE

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.

Qualifications

BA (Hons) Primary Education and Teaching with Specialism in Modern Foreign Languages, TEFL

Career History

After moving to England at the age of 18, I studied at the University of Chichester to become a qualified teacher. I worked in a primary school for five years on the South coast in sunny Bognor Regis, where I was subject lead of Modern Foreign Languages and oversaw the provision for children with English as an additional language, before finding Pennthorpe in 2022. I have had the most fantastic time here and love everything about Pennthorpe.

Best Pennthorpe Moment

My first day – everyone was so friendly and welcoming.

Something About Me

I am passionate about languages and am currently learning my 4^th and 5^th !

Qualifications

BA (Hons) PGCE

Qualifications

BMus (hons), PGCE

Career History

I started teaching Music (strings, brass and piano) as a teenager, and haven’t stopped since! I studied the Viola at the Royal Birmingham Conservatoire, and after completing my PGCE I spent 8 happy years teaching strings for Cornwall Music Service, and the Northamptonshire Music and Performing Arts Trust. I then spent three years as Head of Music in a secondary school in London, and have now settled with my family in Surrey. I have loved being part of the Pennthorpe family since 2023.

Best Pennthorpe Moment

All the school shows and concerts – I feel so proud of the children every time they perform!

Something About Me

I love conducting and directing ensembles, and have been lucky enough to conduct an orchestra at the Royal Albert Hall.

Qualifications

MA, BSc (Hons) PGCE

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!

Qualifications

CACHE Level 3

ABOUT LUDO

Ludo is the newest member of the Pennthorpe team; an adorable Labrador puppy who enjoys his fair share of naps and exploring the world through chewing, quite literally, everything he can get his paws on. Ludo has fast become a firm favourite with the Pennthorpe family, who can’t resist kidnapping him for some quality cuddle time.

What sets Ludo apart is his bright future as a therapy dog with the Pets as Therapy programme. The plan is to train him diligently, and once he’s “qualified,” Ludo will become a daily visitor to the school. There, he will provide much-needed emotional support and comfort to both staff and children, emphasising the importance of mental health.

Qualifications

CACHE Level 3

QUALIFICATIONS

BA (Ed) and Montessori Early Years Teaching Diploma

CAREER HISTORY

Apart from a brief stint in the film industry, I have worked with children in many different roles for almost 40 years. I believe young children learn through play and often we can guide them into wonderfully creative learning that just happens with a little guidance. Big fan of Lev Vygotsky and Rudolph Steiner too (though he and Montessori had very different ideas!).

BEST PENNTHORPE MOMENT

On my second day a colleague said to me, “It feels like you’ve always been at Pennthorpe.” The genuine friendliness of everyone I’ve met so far, and the immediate acceptance of all the children in Beehive, has been incredible.

Qualifications

BSc (Hons), NVQ Level 3, HLTA

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 years gone?! I have worked in many parts of the school from Honey Pot and Food Technology with the Year 8. The majority of my time is spent as a Reception Class Teacher.

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.

Qualifications

NVQ Level 3

Career History

Over 20 years childcare experience in nurseries, nannying, creche and bringing up 2 of my own children. I’ve taught music and movement classes and baton.

Best Pennthorpe Moment

Accepting my role in The Honey Pot, I can’t wait for more great moments!

Special Thing About Me

I’m a Baton Twirler!

Qualifications

BSc (Hons) PGCE RCYT

Career History

Victoria has worked across the primary years as a teacher and Year Leader. She has also worked as a new teacher mentor and championed pupil mental health in her previous roles. Since having her sons Vic trained as a specialist children’s yoga teacher, presenting at the Om Yoga Show in Alexandra Palace and writing for many notable magazines. Victoria is now excited to be joining the Beehive and helping our little Pennthorpians take their early steps in their education journey.

Best Pennthorpe Moment

Meeting all the new Beehive children at transition day has been a highlight so far and I can’t wait see watch them grow in confidence and skill this year!

Qualifications

NVQ Level 3

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 Year 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.

Special Thing About Me

I completed the Couch to 5K during lockdown.

Qualifications

MA, PGCE, NPQH

QUALIFICATIONS

BA (Hons) in Education Sciences, PGCE

CAREER HISTORY

I fell in love with teaching when attending the University of California. As I was earning my degree, I decided to also study Anthropology and this led me to study abroad in London. After I graduated, I moved to London to complete my teacher training. Finally, I began working in an Independent School in London and soon made my way to Pennthorpe!

BEST PENNTHORPE MOMENT

Beating Miss Cooper at an arm wrestling challenge!

SPECIAL THING ABOUT ME

I know how to sail boats!

QUALIFICATIONS

BSc Environmental Management, QTS, MA Early Years Education, Forest School Level 3

CAREER HISTORY

I began my teaching career at an independent school in South London, where I spent seven years teaching in Reception, Nursery, and Year One classes. During this time, I completed a Masters in Early Years Education and became a Forest School Level 3 lead. Following this, I took on the role of Head of EYFS, Lower School, and Outdoor Learning at a school in Richmond. Passionate about the outdoors, I am excited to develop the Outdoor Learning provision at Pennthorpe, making the most of the fantastic woodlands!

QUALIFICATIONS

BA (Hons) in Graphic Design

CAREER HISTORY

I joined Pennthorpe in early 2023 and haven’t looked back since! Previous to coming here I worked in Design, Marketing and Event Management which have all equipped me with a wide range of skills I am able to call on in my current role.

BEST PENNTHORPE MOMENT

There are so many! I love leading daily RWI sessions and seeing that moment in a child when something ‘clicks’.

SPECIAL THING ABOUT ME

I love to sing and have been doing Musical Theatre shows at the Capitol since 2011, playing lead roles in ‘Hello, Dolly!’, ‘Made in Dagenham’, ‘Guys and Dolls’, ‘The Mikado’ and ‘The Witches of Eastwick’.

Qualifications

Level 3 Early Years, Childcare and Education and Level 4 Higher Level Teaching Assistant.

Career History

I have gained a range of experience, over the last 8 years, within the Early Years sector, such as, nannying, childminding assistant and a Reception Teaching Assistant.

Best Pennthorpe Moment

Being given the opportunity to lead Beehive last term.

Something About Me

I have skydived and flown a plane!

Qualifications

BSc (Hons), NVQ Level 3, HLTA

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 years gone?! I have worked in many parts of the school from Honey Pot and Food Technology with the Year 8. The majority of my time is spent as a Reception Class Teacher.

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.

Qualifications

CACHE Level 3

Career History

Previously, I worked for Guildford Borough Council for 20 years in the Environmental Health and Licensing Department. I briefly worked at Loxwood Medical Practice before joining Pennthorpe in 2018. I started in the Front Office, but now feel like I’ve finally found my vocation, working with the children in the classroom.

Best Pennthorpe Moment

Attending the Christmas Carol Service at Christ’s Hospital

Qualifications

BA (Hons) PGCE

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 as Pennthorpe’s Director of Sport in 2016.

Best Pennthorpe Moment

Taking my Year 7 form to Snowdonia in 2019 and helping them conquer their fears in freezing cold water and up the top of high and windy mountains. 

Special Thing About Me

If I could keep any animal as a pet, I would choose to keep a Penguin. I once held a baby one at Berlin Zoo and have always wanted one since! 

Qualifications

Early Years BA NNEB

Qualifications

BA (Hons) PGCE

Career History

I joined Pennthorpe straight after finishing my degree at the University of Chichester, and have loved every minute of it!

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.

Qualifications

BA (Hons) Primary Education and Teaching with Specialism in Modern Foreign Languages, TEFL

Career History

After moving to England at the age of 18, I studied at the University of Chichester to become a qualified teacher. I worked in a primary school for five years on the South coast in sunny Bognor Regis, where I was subject lead of Modern Foreign Languages and oversaw the provision for children with English as an additional language, before finding Pennthorpe in 2022. I have had the most fantastic time here and love everything about Pennthorpe.

Best Pennthorpe Moment

My first day – everyone was so friendly and welcoming.

Something About Me

I am passionate about languages and am currently learning my 4^th and 5^th !

CAREER HISTORY

After graduating from The Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama, I worked as a freelance Stage Manager for companies such as Opera North, Northern Ballet Theatre, Grange Park Opera and finally, Welsh National Opera, where I also helped to develop their Education and Outreach programme. Tired with living out of a suitcase and keen to continue work in education, I moved to a local prep school where I began my teaching career and worked alongside my husband as the boarding housemistress.

BEST PENNTHORPE MOMENT

My first residential trip with Year 5 to High Ashurst.

SOMETHING ABOUT ME

I have been an extra in two films!

QUALIFICATIONS

UEFA C licence

CAREER HISTORY

Having worked as a chef for over a decade, I made a career change after the pandemic and began studying for a degree in Early Years and Primary education.

BEST PENNTHORPE MOMENT

Organising and running the inaugural Pennthorpe Girls’ Football Festivals

SOMETHING ABOUT ME

I have an NVQ Level 3 in Professional Cookery! As an avid football fan, I coach a local girls team whilst also playing for their women’s squad.

Qualifications

CACHE Level 2

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

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!

Qualifications

BEd (Hons), PGCert SPLD (Dyslexia) 

Career History

I qualified as a teacher in 1996 and began my career as a class teacher at a primary school in Chessington. After gaining valuable experience, I transitioned into Special Educational Needs (SEN) teaching, where I discovered my passion for supporting diverse learners. I have been a part of the Pennthorpe community since September 2003 and cherish the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the role, where no two days are ever the same.

Best Pennthorpe Memory

Competing in the ‘dance off’ of Sports Day 2021 against then Year 8, Charlie B. (I was robbed!) 

Special thing about me

I have learned ballroom and Latin dance for over 13 years: ‘Yes, Sir, I can boogie’ – well, Waltz, Quickstep, Jive and Cha-Cha-Cha, actually. 

Qualifications

Early Years BA NNEB

Alex teaches 1-1 guitar lessons with some of our students.

Stephen teaches 1-1 drum lessons with some of our students.

Rachel teaches 1-1 singing lessons with some of our students.

Qualifications

BEd (Hons)

What makes you happy?

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

QUALIFICATIONS

FFA FIPA

CAREER HISTORY

Paul has been a bursar for the last 11 years and thoroughly enjoys the all-embracing nature of the job. From finance and budgetary issues to HR, catering and everything in between. No day is ever the same. Up to July 2022, Paul was a director and Vice Chair of the Independent School’s Bursars Association (ISBA) where he had, and still has, a specific interest in helping the smaller school bursar. Previous to being a bursar, Paul was a practicing accountant working for firms in Surrey and London for 25 years. He has also been a Governor at a state primary school, an independent prep school, a pre-school and Special Needs college.

SOMETHING ABOUT ME

When time permits, Paul tells us that he can bake a mean Lemon Drizzle cake! A ‘Pennthorpe Bake Off’ challenge then?

Career History

I  joined the staff here at Pennthorpe having been a parent at the school for nine years.  In my previous life, I worked in the Olympic movement for almost 20 years; attended four Olympic Games with Team GB and was the second longest serving member of staff at the London 2012 Organising  Committee, having worked on the ‘Greatest ever Olympic Games’ for nine years. I then worked at the Commonwealth Secretariat, bossing around 53 Heads of State and frequently holding the door open for Her Majesty The Queen!

Best Pennthorpe Moment

Watching my children perform on stage and witnessing the transformation of my children and their peers before my eyes – Pennthorpe has been the making of them.

Qualifications

MSc Marketing Management

Career History

I joined Pennthorpe bringing over 15 years of experience within the independent school sector. Throughout my career, I have held roles across a variety of settings, including prep and senior schools, as well as boarding and day schools.

Before moving into the education sector, I began my career in a marketing communications agency, where I developed strong strategic, creative, and project management skills.

Something About Me

Outside of work, I love spending time with my family, which includes my two wonderful (and very active!) young children. Much of my free time is spent cheering on my daughter at what feels like an endless stream of netball matches, or sitting poolside for hours on end just to catch a few seconds of a swimming race—but I wouldn’t have it any other way. Family life keeps me busy, grounded, and endlessly entertained.

Qualifications

LLb Bachelor of Law

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!

Qualifications

BA (Hons)

Career History

I joined Pennthorpe as School Secretary in March 2021 having recently relocated from Australia where I lived for 10 years and worked in financial services.

Best Pennthorpe Moment

Seeing all the amazing activities the children have been involved in every week!

Special Thing About Me

One of my favourite things to do is to travel – so far I’ve travelled to 39 countries in 6 continents but there’s still lots on my list!

Favourite Thing about Pennthorpe

I love working with all of the children – no day is the same!

Emma is part of the team that put together all of the delicious snacks and meals that are consumed at Pennthorpe!

Steve is part of the team that put together all of the delicious snacks and meals that are consumed at Pennthorpe!

Tracey is part of the team that put together all of the delicious snacks and meals that are consumed at Pennthorpe!

Pauline is part of the team that put together all of the delicious snacks and meals that are consumed at Pennthorpe!