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Hello everyone! It is my great honour to introduce myself as the new Summer School Course Director here at Whitgift. For those of you who have attended our fantastic Summer School over the last three years, perhaps you will recognise me, as I was lucky enough to be the Welfare Manager, and given I’ve seen first-hand how brilliant the course is, I’m thrilled to now be leading it.

Having worked in English as a Foreign Language for my entire career, I’ve worked with students from all over the world, as a Teacher, House Parent, Welfare Manager and now, this thrilling new step. My background is in teaching, and I’ve spent the majority of the last ten years living abroad, particularly in Spain, but the opportunity to come back to Whitgift year-round was one I couldn’t miss out on!
 

The chance to be a part of this project all year round is a very exciting opportunity. I already know how strong the foundation the team have built here over the last ten years, and I’m looking forward to building on that with fresh ideas, new energy, and a continued commitment to delivering the best possible programme.

So, what is it about Summer School which appeals to me the most? It’s a cliché, but my answer has to be, without a doubt-the students. We have such a brilliant mix of nationalities, ages, English abilities, but the fantastically talented young people who pass through our door never fail to astound me, year after year. I love working with young people and I hope that every student who was here the last few years has at least one great memory with me, as I certainly have for each of you (even if it was me telling you off for breaking the rules!). I’m sure that any returning students will be delighted not to have to hear my presentations again, complete with the same jokes every single time.

Another wonderful thing about the work we do here is the amazing teams who we recruit year after year. Managing the Welfare Team in the previous summers was such a fulfilling experience, and I was so lucky to have a team who were so dedicated to the role, and making the students feel happy and healthy. I am incredibly excited to be spending more time in other departments, as I know that our Activity and Teaching teams are equally dedicated to making the students have the best possible time during their stay at Whitgift.

And why Whitgift? What else is there to say, except that it is a fantastic place to work, a brilliant programme to run, and where else in education can you work alongside flamingos? The Summer School team are exceptional, and as any parent or agent who has got in contact with us will know, are incredible at ensuring that everything runs smoothly over the year leading up to, and during the course.

What next? I will be travelling to several countries looking to connect with new students for the new course, and back at base we’re currently working on plans for exciting new courses, activities, and working hard to ensure that Whitgift Summer School 2026 is our best yet. We can’t wait to welcome you, see you there!

Bookings for the 2026 Summer School open on Wednesday 1st October. 
Email: summerschool@whitgift.co.uk