This week, we had A Conversation With... Miss Hearn. Miss Hearn joined Shiplake in September last year, and has certainly made an impact since then. She currently teachers English, takes part in many aspects of our Co-Curricular and Outdoor Education programmes and can often be seen in the CCF camouflage.
What does your average day entail?
I’m up at around 5.40am to walk my dog. With the nice weather this week, it’s been a lovely start to the day, but in the wet weather, and in the past the dark cold Winter mornings, it’s not so fun! I’ll then make the journey into school, listening to a podcast on the way. Once I’m in school, depending on the day, I’ll either head to Chapel, assembly, or have the time to pop to the common room for a cup of tea. I’ll then make sure my classroom is ready for the start of lessons. I’m lucky in that I have a wide range of students to teach, from Year 8 to Year 12, so each lesson is varied and interesting. Teaching a core subject also means that I see my students three or four times a week, so I get to know them pretty well. After lessons, I’ll head off to one of my co-curricular activities, and if it’s a Wednesday I’ll head to Skipwith house for duty.
What is your favourite co-curricular aspect of Shiplake College?
Because my co-curricular timetable is so varied, it’s hard to decide! I take part in Duke of Edinburgh, CCF, Year 9 outdoor activities and Harriers. What I really enjoy about these activities is that I get to be outside. I was definitely never destined to work at a desk, but even a full day of teaching in a classroom can be stifling, so having the opportunity to get out into fresh air can really lift my mood. I spent this week’s CCF session kayaking on the river, and it was the highlight of my day.
When you were younger, who were your role models?
Growing up in the 90s, it had to be The Spice Girls. They taught me about feminism before I even knew what it was, and I can still do the dance routine to ‘Stop’. I’m going to see them twice this Summer for their reunion tour and I can’t wait.
What was the last book you read, and did you enjoy it?
I’ve just finished two books recently:
‘Normal People’ by Sally Rooney. I’m rather late to the game with this author- she’s just won book of the year with this title and I had no idea she was such a prolific author. I read it on the advice of a friend, and it completely captured me. The power dynamics of the relationship between the two main characters is still on my mind.
In school, during Accelerated Reader lessons, I’ve also just finished ‘The Wall’ by William Sutcliffe, on the advice of my Year 9 class. I started off thinking that I was reading a typical dystopian novel, but the narrative actually mirrors the daily (and very real) experiences of those living in the West Bank; it’s very harrowing. I always read during these lessons, and often ask for recommendations from the boys. It’s a great insight into what they enjoy reading.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned about Shiplake College?
That if you have the right attitude, and a go-getter mentality, the possibilities available to you at school are pretty much endless. There are so many options available to the students here, and it is fantastic to see some students make the most of these opportunities by filling their days with such varied subjects and activities.
If you could be a fictional character from any film or book, who would it be and why?
It would have to be Hermione Granger, because who wouldn’t want to be a witch? She is so clever and confident, but came from a very normal, ‘muggle’ background; proving that you can find success through sheer determination. I’m still waiting for my letter from Hogwarts...
What does the future hold for Miss Hearn?
I try not to look too far ahead! Professionally, I’m always striving to further my teaching practice. I’m a voracious reader of all things educational, whether it be through EduTwitter, blogs or books, and am now looking into completing a Masters in Education. I’ve also still got my goal of completing a marathon by the time I’m 30, which is fast approaching! My name is in the ballot for the London marathon next year, so maybe I’ll get lucky?
