Clare Kirkham

What makes a good teacher at Bedales?

I think a good teacher here is one who adores working with others and who is happy to get really involved. Staff and students at the Prep School have amazing energy and creative ideas, but seeing them through takes teamwork and an attitude that is certainly not 9 to 5.

What are you trying to encourage and instil in your students?

Through our teaching, we aim, first and foremost, to help the students realise that they are important and that their ideas, dreams and motivations really matter: that they are not something to be measured and assessed continuously, but a person to be championed. I want to instil in them an understanding that learning is a joy in life and not just for passing exams and racing to the next stage. If they leave the Prep School happy to learn and interested in the world around them, we’ll have done our jobs well.

Apart from your teaching role, what else do you get involved with at the school?

I am a member of the Student Council, which I really love. The students come up with the most profound ideas for developing our learning spaces, curriculum and nutrition. They see things from a different perspective and their voices are clear and so valuable for our continuous development.

In your opinion, what makes Bedales special?

Bedales is a unique and wonderful place; not just a school but a real community joined by a common understanding that no single pursuit is more important than another. It is a school where Outdoor Work and Ceramics are as valued as Maths and English, and where testing is secondary to learning. People matter here and everyone is treated equally with respect and kindness.

Who or what inspires you?

My family inspire me the most. I come from a family of extremely hard-working and kind people and was fortunate enough to marry into one too. My family’s successes are something I celebrate effusively and I find their achievements and hard work inspiring. My father taught me the quote, ‘The harder I work the luckier I get’, and this is something that has guided me throughout my life.

Tell us something not a lot of people know about you

My sister and I once did a modelling campaign for a children’s clothing brand. My parents used the fee we earnt to buy us an amazing climbing frame and swing set. It was fantastic!