Staff Spotlight Series 4: Miss Winter

In our Staff Spotlight Series 4, we’re shining a light on the incomparable Miss Winter, Mead’s school Registrar, the Head’s PA, and the ever-reliable helping hand at the end of the phone. With over sixteen years of service, she’s more than just a part of the Mead furniture; she’s a pillar of our school community.

Find out more about Miss Winter and the daily adventures in her life at The Mead, discover her secret talents, discover her spirit animal, and learn about the aspects of her job that fill her days with joy and fulfilment.”

1.) How long have you been working at The Mead and what was your first day like?

I’ve been at The Mead for 17 years, starting in April! My first day was a week into the summer term, which was quite a manic time to join. Everyone was very welcoming. I had to adapt to my role quickly. I had two days to organise a three-day residential trip for Year 6 to the Isle of Wight.

1.) What did you do before working at The Mead?

Before The Mead, I worked for a fine art auctioneer, which was quite different. I also worked at the Brighton College of Technology and loved the buzz, which led me to apply for the job at The Mead as I thought it would offer a similar experience.

2.) What is your favourite thing about The Mead?

My favourite thing about The Mead is the sense of teamwork. It feels like a family. Everyone is always willing to help each other out. I particularly love seeing the children develop, whether they join in Pre-Reception and progress to Year 6 or join partway through and flourish by the end of their time here.

3.) What has been your favourite memory/day while working here?

There have been many; if I had to choose, the best times are when we come together as a school. For example, seeing the students in the summer show is always special. I see sides of them I didn’t know, like their singing, acting or sporting talents. I also have fond memories of Sports Day and other school events.

4.) How do you think the children would describe you?

I’d like to think they see me as friendly, approachable, and always willing to help.

5.) What do you like to do outside of school?

I play tennis three times a week, am a member of two book clubs, and have been studying French for the past 20 years, attending a class every week. I also love gardening, dancing, baking, and swimming when I have the time.

6.) If you could be an animal, what would you be and why?

I would choose to be a horse (I was born in the Chinese year of the horse). They are well cared for, have a strong bond with their owners, and seem to have a good life. Plus, I love being out in the countryside.

7.) Tell us something nobody knows about you.

I once represented West Sussex Young Farmers in Dairy stock judging. This involved judging six dairy cattle in 20 minutes, ranking them from first to last, and then explaining to the judge why I ordered them that way, focusing on the composition of a good dairy cow. I beat the stockman in my county, which took me to the regionals.

8.) Describe a day in the life of your job at The Mead.

No two days are the same, which I love. It can involve anything from caring for sick children and judging school and house competitions to the usual administrative duties.