We Are Family: Staff Profiles
At West House School and Nursery, our community is built on strong connections, shared values, and a warm, family-friendly atmosphere. In our We Are Family series, we’re proud to introduce the incredible staff who make our school such a special place. From their passion for education to the personal touches they bring to our community, each profile highlights the people at the heart of West House. Welcome to our family!
In the hot spot this week is the wonderful Mrs White.
Introduction
I have been working in education since January 1995, across a range of special schools and mainstream settings, and for the past 15 years in independent preparatory schools. Throughout my career, I have held various roles, but my current position—teaching across Years 3 to 6 in the Prep department is by far the most rewarding. While I enjoy teaching all areas of the curriculum, my true passion lies in teaching maths and preparing pupils for secondary school examinations. Every day, I come to work with joy and enthusiasm, inspired by the wonderful pupils we have at our school.
Favourite thing about WHS
My favourite thing about teaching at Westhouse School is the way we all learn collectively. When we come across something we do not fully understand, we explore and research it together, fostering a deeper understanding. This shared passion and zest for learning is what I value most. I want every pupil to leave my classroom having discovered something new or with a curiosity to learn more. We are all lifelong learners, and it is this journey of learning together that truly unites us.
Previous experience
I am in my fourth year of teaching at WHS. Before teaching at Westhouse School, I worked as an Assistant Head at The Shrubbery School and prior to that, I managed the day-to day running of the Prep Department at Highclare School in Sutton Coldfield. These experiences provided me with valuable skills and a deep understanding of both the educational and pastoral needs, which I bring to my current role.
Favourite Book
The Chronicles of Narnia by C.S. Lewis holds a particularly special place for me. As a child, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe was always my favourite as it was not just a book you read—it was an adventure you lived in your imagination. This story transported you to a magical land filled with talking animals, mythical creatures, and a battle between good and evil. For me, it was the character of Lucy who captivated my heart. Lucy’s bravery, honesty, and open heartedness made her a character I aspired to be. I admired her unwavering determination to stand by her beliefs and her willingness to explore the unknown, no matter how daunting. I so enjoyed reading about Lucy’s adventures and longed to be Lucy, venturing through the wardrobe and discovering hidden worlds. Today, The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe remains more than a story for me—it is a reminder of those childhood dreams and now, I share this story with Year 4, giving them a glimpse into the same enchanting world that once sparked my imagination. We can all look for Lucy’s courage and kindness within ourselves.
Hobbies
In my teenage years, I was an avid ice skater, practising five times a week! I also have a strong musical background, having played piano and flute to Grade 8 standard (though I’m a little rusty now). My musical tastes range from listening to Cast and Oasis to 1980s bands like The Human League, Blondie and INXS. At home, I have a menagerie of pets, including two dogs, three cats, and my own school of fish!
