Q and A: The Cavendish School headteacher Jane Rogers

Please can you go into your background in teaching prior to starting at Cavendish?

After completing my degree and post-graduate teaching qualification in London, I taught in state primary schools in Kilburn, Primrose Hill and Islington. This was followed by work at the Institute of Education, University of London as a primary science lecturer and PGCE course leader. At the institute I was also involved in research in the areas of school effectiveness and development planning. Following this I taught in independent prep schools in London. My previous appointment was head of the prep school at City of London School for Girls.

What attracted you to the job?

I have known about The Cavendish School for many years. It is renowned for its outstanding pastoral care, nurturing environment and for providing pupils of all abilities with exceptional learning experiences and individual support. It is a hidden gem in the heart of Camden Town. I was interested in exploring working in a well established, mixed ability, inclusive, inner city school for my second headship post. I was also looking for an opportunity to work in a school where pupils could stay from nursery through to Year 6.

What makes Cavendish unique as a school?

As soon as you walk into the school you are struck by the welcoming atmosphere created by the caring and friendly team of staff, pupils and parents. It is a vibrant and creative community that provides an exciting and enjoyable learning setting. The pupils are happy, hard-working, articulate and very proud of their school. There is a sense of common purpose and a lively enthusiasm for learning and playing. Individuals are valued and there is a real sense of empathy and support for all. Our governing body is extremely knowledgeable, supportive and involved in all aspects of school life. They are an integral part of our development. Unusually there are a very high number of current and ex-parents who are governors meaning that they have a detailed understanding of the life and learning of the school.

What are your main aims as headmistress?

My aims are to build on the traditions of The Cavendish School to help it develop further as a learning community. The quality of work undertaken in the creative arts is outstanding and I hope that my particular interest in STEM subjects will build on the already excellent foundations here. As a learning community we are always aiming to reflect on our work and try to improve. In addition I want to help to prepare the pupils for the exciting challenges that lie ahead of them in their senior schools and beyond in the world of work. As a mixed ability school the pupils are encouraged and supported to reach their full academic potential and there is always work to be done to update curricula and keep abreast of the latest research.

What have been your proudest moments as headmistress so far?

There have already been many but seeing all the girls cheer their friends and peers on in front of their parents at our recent sports day at Parliament Fields track was one. Another was seeing pupils from every class participate in recent assemblies, music and gymnastic performances. I am proud every day when I see the pupils trying their best in class and supporting and caring for their friends.

What is the most exciting thing happening at Cavendish before the end of term?

At the end of every school year we celebrate the achievements of all the pupils at our ‘shine celebrations’. Girls are rewarded for their academic and all other achievements. It is another occasion when parents can share in the life of the school.

What do you like most about working in Camden?

I like the liveliness, the diversity of people, and the contrast of being positioned between Regent’s Park and the bustle of the market. It encapsulates everything that I like about the centre of London.

What is the school’s ethos?

The school was originally set up as a Catholic foundation and although now we welcome families from all religions or none, the values of fairness, kindness and generosity pervade everything we do.