A Conversation With... Mrs Fiona Dunn

In today's 'A Conversation With...', the first of the Spring Term, we catch up with Mrs Fiona Dunn who is the College's Assistant Head (Pastoral). Mrs Dunn was one of the driving forces behind National Fitness Day and Loud Shirt Day here at the College and in this feature, we learn more about her upcoming plans for the Spring Term, in addition to what she does outside of work and what motivated her to pursue a career in teaching and education. 

What is your role and how long have you been at Shiplake?

I am the Assistant Head Pastoral here at Shiplake and I have been working at the College since September 2023.  

What were you doing before working here? 

Before working here, I was a Senior Housemistress of a boys’ boarding house at a full boarding school in Kent. I was also a physical education teacher and coach for the 1st XI girls’ hockey team and the 2nd XI boys’ hockey team. Additionally, I was in charge of athletics and was the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) at the school. 

What is a day in the life like for you at Shiplake?  

My days at Shiplake tend to be very busy from morning through to the evening! I have lots of meetings, lessons to plan and deliver, as well as learning walks in order to visit students in class. The learning walks also allow me to see all of the amazing opportunities that the students have here at the College. My afternoons are often filled with sports coaching, and of course... saying hello to many of the dogs that we have here at Shiplake. 

What inspired you to pursue a career in teaching and education?  

When I was a pupil, I had many great teachers while at school myself. And with my love for all sports, it was inevitable that I too would follow their footsteps and become a teacher. I enjoy watching students develop not only their academic prowess, but also their social skills as they grow up and move onwards through the school. 

You've been one of the driving forces behind initiatives taking place at the College such as National Fitness Day and Loud Shirt Day; what can we expect for the Spring Term and why is it important to get involved?  

The Spring Term features a lot more to think about and act upon. This includes National Holocaust Memorial Day and Mental Health Days. For me, I think it is important that we all get involved to raise awareness and understand the society we live in, as well as embrace each other for the differences that are around us in a thriving school community. 

What do you do outside of work?   

Outside of work, I walk my three dogs a lot to wear them out! I also play hockey for Henley Hockey Club and run a lot as this gives me time to think about and reflect on busy working days. 

What does the future hold for Mrs Dunn? 

In a perfect world, I would like to have the opportunity to run another marathon to add to the many that I have previously completed. I would love to achieve a sub 3hour 15minute time in order to qualify as an elite lady for the London Marathon. Closer to home, I am planning many more initiatives here at the College and intend to keep on developing the excellent pastoral care we currently have and build on that with the students.