FROM THE NEW DEPUTY HEADS
The Senior Leadership Team saw significant changes in 2021 , including the arrival of three new Deputy Heads . We asked them to reflect on their start at Sevenoaks School .
A NURTURING CAN-DO ATMOSPHERE
Right from my first day at Sevenoaks I could sense the purpose and fast pace amongst both students and staff which sets it apart . There is something on offer for all tastes and a can-do atmosphere that instils in students a sense that curiosity is rewarded , which creates confidence and commitment . Overarching all , however , is a sense of care . Students here are nurtured by staff rather than driven , which means their achievements are truly their own . It is also a really inclusive school . I felt I belonged very early on when I said good morning to a Middle School student walking past who stopped and asked me how I was enjoying Sevenoaks . I was touched by their genuine interest which made me feel so part of things . I ’ ve loved helping out with various activities . I really enjoyed umpiring our U15E netball team in their game against Brighton College , as well as playing double bass in the orchestra and bass guitar in the wind band ( including in the amazing Crash into Christmas concert ), despite the terror of having to navigate the fiendishly difficult bass solo in Pee Wee Ellis ’ s ’ The Chicken ’!
I love the range my job brings . One minute I ’ m being kept on my toes in a History classroom , the next I am discussing the strategy for the next ten years with the Headmaster and Governors , and moments later thinking about toilet provision or drainage ! There is never a dull moment , and some days you get something really unexpected . At one morning break , for example , the Head of Modern Languages told me that pre-Covid he had entered into an agreement with the Japanese government which was giving sakura ( cherry ) trees to schools – and ours would be coming that very day ! Fortunately , the Director of Property knew what to do and the tree was soon planted in the new mindfulness garden . I ’ m so proud to be a part of this remarkable community and can ’ t wait to see how the years ahead unfold .
Dr Clare Ives , Senior Deputy Head
4 SEVENOAKS SCHOOL 2021-2022