Clive Smith-Langridge, Head of Northcote Lodge, talks about the experiences that shaped him and his love of cricket!

Who or what inspired you to teach?

Working in business simply to make money for others was frustrating. I realised the role I enjoyed most was training and development so decided to go into teaching.

Do you have an all-time favourite book?

The Children of the New Forest by Captain Marryat. I loved the rich description of life in the New Forest.

What sort of music do you listen to?

I really enjoy music from different countries. I have a holiday home in France and love (loud) accordion music early in the morning to wake everyone up!

Do you have a favourite play or musical?

Definitely ‘Anything Goes’ by Cole Porter. Fun, lively and with a historical element.

Who would your five ideal dinner guests be (famous, living or dead)?

Raymond Blanc, Tommy Cooper, Yvette Horner (accordion player), Ian Botham and P.G. Wodehouse.

Your personal motto in life?

Be kind.

If you could bring three things to a desert island what would they be?

An axe for chopping firewood, a wok for cooking all that delicious seafood and a pillow to help me sleep.

If you were invisible for a day what would you do?

Sneak into an England rugby match at Twickenham.

If you weren’t headmaster, what would your dream job be?

Something in the travel business or a pilot.

What is your greatest achievement?

Whilst living in Chile for a couple of years in my twenties, I had the honour of captaining Chile at cricket vs Brazil and an Australian Academy XI.  It was a pleasure to lead such a famous cricketing nation.

What was your favourite subject at school?

Definitely maths, I was fortunate that it came easily to me.

Any signature dishes?

I love Asian cookery and my favourite dish is red lamb chilli curry.

One thing you always make sure you have on your desk?

My glasses. Sadly the eyes are not what they used to be!

Your greatest movie of all time?

The Great Escape.

Why, in your opinion is your school best?

We provide a country prep style education in the heart of Wandsworth.

What three things do you need to be a successful headmaster?

To consult and listen; to put the child and their education at the centre of decision making; to deflect praise and accept blame.

Best advice you would give your new school joiners?

Put your hand up, join in and make the most of all of the amazing opportunities on offer.

In one sentence, what is your school’s ethos?

Do your best to be your best.

 

Love getting an insight into what goes on in a head’s head?! Then why not see if yours has featured yet in our HEAD Space series…