Meet the Head of KS2, Maths and Year 4 teacher – Mrs Russell.
In this edition of our Staff Spotlight Series, we’re excited to introduce Mrs Russell, a key figure in our Year 4 classroom and the Head of Maths and KS2. With a teaching career that spans continents, Mrs Russell’s story is not just about her role at The Mead but about a journey filled with diverse cultural experiences, from the vibrant streets of Singapore to the serene shores of Lake Geneva. Now in her fifth year with us, she opens up about the close-knit community at The Mead, her adventures before settling back in the UK, and the joy she finds in teaching and her life outside the classroom.
How long have you been at The Mead and what does your role cover?
I am in my fifth year at The Mead – the time has passed quickly! I teach Year 4 and I’m Head of Maths and KS2.
What is your favourite thing about The Mead?
There is a wonderful sense of belonging at The Mead – it really does feel like we are one big family. It is lovely seeing the older and younger children playing together during our whole school breaktimes.
What did you do before coming to The Mead?
I started my career in a prep school in London and used to cycle through the back streets to get to school each day! I then moved to Singapore for 7 years and taught at a large British school. From there, I moved to Switzerland and taught at an International Boarding School for 4 years, just a 5-minute walk from Lake Geneva, which was glorious in the summer. After being abroad for 11 years, I moved back to the UK and started my time at The Mead.
What is your best memory of The Mead to date?
It’s hard to know where to start, as there have been so many! One particular moment was seeing the first summer show after the pandemic. It was Oliver and the opening scene was very moving. It was such a joy to see children from Reception to Year 6 participating – the performance standard was incredible.
How do you feel the children learn the best?
I think children learn best when they feel safe and valued. Creating a positive and fun learning environment also helps to give children a love of learning so they can reach their potential.
What do you like to do outside of school? Do you have any hobbies?
On weekends, I enjoy country walks with our dog and going to church. My family loves a bit of table tennis around the kitchen table and I’m also very passionate about skiing.
Tell me something nobody else knows about you.
I have sung in a choir at the Royal Albert Hall and been to the Amazon rainforest.