|
 |
|
 |
|
|||
 |
 |
||
|
APS appoints new deputy head with African experience
Altrincham Preparatory School's new Deputy Head elect, Caroline Austen, has the same sense of satisfaction teaching boys in suburban Bowdon as she did when she first stood in front of a class in rural Swaziland. "Of course the children have dramatically different circumstances, but there is the same hunger for learning." Caroline added: "A good education is regarded as a privilege in Africa as it is at APS. Both groups of children are motivated to do their best and are keenly supported. Sadly, I am not too sure you could say that for every child in Britain, where all too often education is taken as a right" Her belief in the importance and value of education explains why Caroline left a successful career as a financial manager with Marks and Spencer, to retrain as teacher. "M&S gave me a strong grounding in management skills, but I needed a career that meant more to me and I could not forget my first job in Africa at the age of just 18 and the joy I had when I saw a child acquiring knowledge." Caroline added: "The rewards I and the boys gain together have made all the sacrifice so worthwhile. I have the same deep satisfaction teaching at APS as I did when I was in Africa." After four years at APS, the last three years as Assistant Deputy Head with specific responsibility for the Infants, Caroline has been promoted to replace Mrs Hamilton, who is to be the new Head of Manchester Grammar School's Junior Department. Super fit and passionate about the outdoors, she has completed various Three Peaks' Challenges for Francis House, Caroline will bring the same vigour and dedication to her new role. Her philosophy is simple: "The formative years are the most important. This is when the foundations must be laid and good habits instilled. Sound academic skills are essential, though the curriculum I wish for will foster adaptability, creativity and flexibility touched with compassion and humanity." She added: "Nonetheless, education has to be fun and take place within a happy atmosphere in which all talents can be nurtured. I want the boys to take ownership of their education so it is really important to promote independent thought and moral responsibility." Head Girl at Nonsuch High School in Surrey and with a BSc in Agronomy from Reading University, Caroline certainly is an advert for all she espouses. Altrincham Preparatory School Headmaster Andrew Potts said: "To replace Mrs Hamilton was always going to severely exercise me. I can only say how fortunate I have been to have already within my Staffroom Miss Austen who carries all the qualities I was seeking. Her enthusiasm, drive, vitality allied to her intelligence and sense, will form the nucleus upon which future success at APS will be delivered." |
|
Latest news: |