Vanessa Beech, Head of Year 7 & Learning Support Teacher

 What does your job entail? What is a typical day like? 

Every morning, I meet and greet my lovely Year 7 tutor group for a short form time and then spend the rest of the day working 1:1 with pupils from across the school, supporting them with literacy and numeracy.

Where did you work before this position? 

Prior to joining Sandroyd, I was Head of Learning Support at Forres Sandle Manor where I worked for 14 years.

What motivates you at work?

The children. Witnessing that ‘eureka’ moment is what gets me out of bed each morning.

Whats one thing you are really bad at?

Ball sports! I’ve tried various forms over the years (golf, tennis, squash, badminton) but can’t seem to master any. My strengths lie on the water.  

If you could have a career in anything, what would it be?

My dream was to be the first female Red Arrows pilot and if anything could persuade me away from teaching, it would be that. My father was a racing driver in his youth so I think the ‘need for speed’ comes from him. 

What kind of music do you like? What's the best concert you've been to?

I love a whole variety of music and listen to whatever I’m in the mood for. My favourite artist at the moment is Teddy Swims – an Amercian newcomer with the most amazing voice. His appearance does not match his voice and if you’ve never heard of him, have a google. 

Have you met anyone famous?

I once met Nicolas Cage in London. We were on an A Level school trip when an exasperated man (unbeknown to me until my teacher told me later) leapt out of a limousine which was trying to reverse out of the Savoy entrance onto a very congested road. Mr Cage grabbed me (the nearest person) and stood me in the middle of said busy road to hold up the traffic so his limo could escape. What thanks did I get for putting my life on the line...absolutely none. Suffice to say I have never watched one of his films and never want to! 

What three items would you take with you to a deserted island?

A slipper bath (filled to the brim with hot water and bubbles), a good book (probably To Kill a Mockingbird) and an endless supply of chocolate.