We caught up with our adventure-loving Junior School Year 3 class teacher Mrs. Badger, to find out more about her, what she loves about teaching Year 3 and what she's looking forward to next academic year.
1. Tell us a bit about yourself...
I come from a very big family, I’m one of six, with an identical twin (who is also a teacher!). We’re spread out all over the country but we always find a way to meet up – usually in Scotland, in the holidays when we can. We’re all doing a triathlon together in a few weeks’ time where I’m on the same team as my dad!
I love being outside and going on adventures, especially ones that involve water - kayaking, cold swimming and just discovering new places. I love doing things that get you out in the fresh air; I love cycle touring – putting a tent on the back of your bike, or simply having a picnic by the suspension bridge.
2. What made you want to become a teacher?
I found myself teaching in Grenoble in France for my year abroad, and whilst I never thought about teaching as a profession, I really enjoyed it. I taught English in three primary schools in the Alps and loved how every day was different and how much fun there was. I would teach English during the week and went skiing whenever I could during the winter. Teaching allowed me to be creative and form so many relationships with pupils.
The special relationships you form with pupils is at the heart of why I wanted to become a teacher, and seeing how it supports them to reach their full potential.
3. How long have you been teaching at Redmaids' High Junior School?
Nearly four years now. This is my first full non-Covid year, with no impact, finally! I’ve taught Year 6 for one year and Year 3 for the other three.
4. Has there been a particular highlight during this time?
Planning and taking Year 5 to the Opal Coast in France for the weekend earlier this year was a huge privilege and achievement. Having taught French to the girls, it was amazing to make it real for them and show them why it’s so useful to learn a new language – seeing how they’ve applied what I’ve taught them was really rewarding.
5. What is the most rewarding thing about being a Year 3 teacher?
As it’s the first year at the Junior School, it’s obviously a really key year for the children. I get to see them making new friends, and more importantly, becoming more independent at a new school.
It’s a privilege to be able to support them through the first year in their school career at Redmaids’, and seeing them thrive. I work hard with them to develop their independence, resilience and organisation and navigate a new environment.
6. Tell us why you think 7-year-olds should never be underestimated, and why it is a special age.
It is such a wonderful age. They’re so enthusiastic and inquisitive about everything and eager to please! They can also do so much and their brains are like sponges! They don’t miss a beat and seem to remember everything!
They approach everything with positive energy, and just throw themselves into things.
7. What are you most looking forward to next academic year?
I’m really looking forward to teaching a brand new group of girls, getting to know them and maybe going on the ski trip in Italy which will be in the Spring Term of next year!
8. Finally, do you have a message for new pupils who will be joining this September?
Be brave and grab every opportunity with both hands, you won’t regret it!
To find out more about the Junior School, join us at one of our visiting events in the Autumn Term.