Meet the new Head of Classics

Can you tell us about your role?

I have joined the school as Head of Classics which means I lead the provision of Latin, Greek and Classical Civilisation throughout the school.

As we believe that our pupils should and can aspire without limits at Croydon High, what are your key aspirations in this new role and what is your vision as Head of Classics?

I believe that Classics is for everyone as it is such a broad subject encompassing language, history and culture. My hope is to inspire confidence in pupils to engage in the ancient world and enjoy what it teaches us about life and ourselves.

Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?

My favourite thing to do on the weekends is visiting art galleries and museums. I did History of Art A Level when I was at school so I particularly enjoy looking out for classical details on buildings or classical references in paintings and sculptures.

What advice would you give your 15-year-old self?

That it’s okay to make mistakes; in fact, mistakes are positive if you see them as a learning opportunity.

Share a memorable time where you felt proud, empowered, aspirational or have shown kindness to others or kindness was shown to you.

I feel proud every time I see pupils making progress in my subject, whether mastering a new tense or drawing links between Greek and Roman culture. But one particularly memorable time was in my first teaching job in a boarding school where I led a chapel service on the topic of ‘role models’. I described my grandfather who came to boarding school in England from South America in 1946 aged 13. I was able to pass on his wisdom, most importantly, to play fair and be honest.

Ms Grace Whittingham
Head of Classics