This week in our ‘Bridging the gap’ series we speak to alumna of St Edward’s Oxford, Evie Jones who went back to Cheam School.

What was your average day?
Waking up the pupils and making sure they made it down to breakfast, which at times could be challenging! Throughout the day, lessons and sport, then in the evenings different activities ranging from arts and crafts, to football in the sports hall.

Was it weird to see your teachers as peers?
It’s bizarre having access to the staff room as it’s out of bounds to pupils and that some existing teachers used to teach me back in the day.

Any improvements since you left?
The new astro pitch! To be honest it was great to see that the majority of the school had not changed, so I still remembered my way around!

Any quirky traditions still going?
At Christmas lunch there are still dares given out for those who find coins in their Christmas cake.

What type of child were you?
Far quieter and less confident than I am now. I spent my time rushing off to the computer room at any given opportunity.

Favourite school lunch?
Cheam grill, I was gutted to hear this had stopped when I returned as a gappy.

What was the ‘in’ thing?
When I was a pupil it was sticker trading. Nowadays there’s more of an interest in clothing and technology.

What did you take away from this experience?
That teaching is one of the most rewarding but also tiring experiences and there is never a dull moment!

What advice would you give to your younger self going off to senior school?
Don’t be scared because everyone you meet is in exactly the same boat!

What now?
I am currently in my second year studying Business Management at Edinburgh and have also been offered a place next year at the University of Sydney.

What will be your lasting memory?
The dedicated and enthusiastic nature of all the staff and how this translated into happy healthy students, who leave school prepared and excited for the future ahead of them.

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This article features in the Summer issue of ‘Noticed’ magazine