Meet our Head of Lower School

Wandsworth Prep is delighted to announce that Carla Ritchie will be joining the team from September 2017, taking on the newly formed role of Head of Lower School.

With a wealth of experience in both the state and independent sectors, combined with her passion for quality teaching, we are thrilled to have Carla on board. Carla is looking forward to meeting parents in the Summer Term. In the meantime, parents can learn more about Carla by reading our short Q+A.

What attracted you to the role at Wandsworth Prep?

I was delighted to read about the position at Wandsworth Preparatory School.  Having worked at another new and small school myself, I know this is a really exciting time of growth and development.  That said, the most important thing for me is finding a role at a school with a similar set of values.  Wandsworth Preparatory is a creative school which fosters the love of learning which I feel is fundamental in education.

What skills and experience can you bring to Wandsworth Prep?

I have worked across both state and independent sectors, year groups and in two different countries so I have a wealth of teaching experience to draw on.  For the past seven years, I have worked as the Lower School Coordinator and as such, have a good understanding of what my new role will entail from prior experience.  I am passionate about quality teaching of literacy and have trained as a Reading Recovery Teacher while working in New Zealand.  I have also recently completed my MA in Education (psychology) at University College London. 

Why did you decide to become a teacher?

While at high school, I spent my final year as a 'tutor' to a student in the third form.  I had always been a keen learner myself and enjoyed helping others in their learning.  I knew I wanted a career that was rewarding and fulfilling but also, I knew that I wanted to work with children.  Teaching was an obvious choice for me and made my grandmother, who had wanted to be a teacher herself, enormously proud!

What’s the best thing about being a teacher?

Teaching is a very rewarding career and there are many things I enjoy about teaching.  The best thing about being a teacher for me is watching the joy and pride that children show when they can see the progress that they have made.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

In my spare time I enjoy exercising, reading, sewing and spending time with friends!  My biggest passion however is theatre.  I am heavily involved with a local theatre company and enjoy acting, directing and occasionally writing scripts!