Meet Jo Fife, our Key Stage 2 Leader, joining us in September 2015

What attracted you to the role at Wandsworth Prep?

I was attracted to the innovative and creative curriculum that has been developed at WPS and the way the learning has been made meaningful for the children. The role as Key Stage 2 Phase Leader is very exciting as although I have lead Upper Key Stage 2 before, leading Key Stage 2 in a new, small and developing school has incredible opportunities for creating a special and unique learning environment.

What skills and experience can you bring to Wandsworth Prep?

I have had 18 years of experience in teaching in what has been a wide and varied career. I have taught as a class teacher from Years 2 - 6 in London and Sydney, been a lecturer for training teachers on the BA Hons QTS at St Mary’s University, delivered cross-curricular lessons as a Drama and English specialist across Key Stage 2 and Leading Literacy Teacher in Merton and worked as Assistant Headteacher at Wimbledon Park Primary School over the past three years. All these roles have been fantastic in enabling me to understand how children learn; I always try to improve as a teacher, to engage children in learning to their highest potential. My experience has shown me that happy and motivated children make fantastic learners!

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

After a short career in publishing and advertising, I reflected one day that rather than looking after clients on a shoot, I would rather work with children instead. Learning anything new is exciting and being part of a child’s learning journey is a real privilege. I’m inspired by creative environments and children have to be the most innovative of all!

What’s the best thing about being a teacher?

Being with the children! Every day is different and I love to see the progression from the beginning of the year to the end and seeing every child’s journey in terms of learning and confidence. I also enjoy facilitating a great team environment where everyone is valued and helping the children to build life and learning skills that will empower them on their way to secondary school.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I have a love of the theatre and try to go as often as possible. My favourite thing to do is to enjoy time with my husband, our children and our family and friends; my perfect day would be by the sea, enjoying a barbeque on the beach, having a giggle and watching the sun go down - bliss!