Meet Louise Lawrance, Headteacher of The Granville School in Sevenoaks
What inspired your career in education?
Being able to make a difference. I grew up in South Africa and used to volunteer at a school for street children. I saw first-hand the impact education had on the lives of those children and I felt I had a calling.
What do you enjoy most about life at The Granville?
I am a teacher first and foremost so my most enjoyable times are when I am in the classroom teaching and working with the children. I also love being part of a community – working with children, parents, teachers and others in our local area. It is a privilege to watch each child’s journey and progress and to witness all their achievements and accomplishments.
Tell us about The Granville’s history.
The school was founded on VE Day in 1945 by Ena Makin and was situated on Granville Road. As the school grew we moved to our current site on Bradbourne Park Road. Many aspects of the school have evolved and modernised but our war time motto, ‘Caritas et Pietas – Love and Service’ is still relevant 77 years later.
What is the most challenging aspect of your work?
As a leader you are always making decisions. The pressure to get every judgement ‘right’ can be tough. Knowing that every decision made will have an impact on members of our school community can weigh heavily at times. I always go back to our Granville Values of honesty, integrity, respect, kindness and courage, which guide the most challenging decisions.
Do you have a favourite school memory/teacher?
I have so many amazing memories from school and many of those influenced my attitudes and approach to life. I was very fortunate to have excellent teachers who inspired me to learn more about the world, to travel and explore different cultures.
Tell us about how you relax outside work.
I have two children aged 5 and 8 and I am also the owner of the school dog Teddy, so much of my time out of school is spent walking, swimming, cycling or playing tennis, cricket, netball and football with them. When I get the chance I also enjoy scuba diving, creating art pieces, playing music and snowboarding.
Do you have a favourite place to visit in the area?
We are so lucky to have so many beautiful and exciting places to explore in Kent. As a family we spend lots of time on the North Downs. We also enjoy cycling along the Viking Coastal Trail as well as the cycle trail between Penshurst and Tonbridge. We also love our time at Riverhill Himalayan Gardens.
Which was your favourite subject at school?
One of my most memorable teachers was Mr Henchie, who taught English. It is therefore no surprise that his subject was my favourite. Coming from quite an insulated upbringing, the books and literature I was introduced to opened up the world for me, both figuratively and literally.
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