Headteacher of Gosfield School, Dr Sarah Welch, was tempted by a career on the stage but chose instead to work with an ensemble cast of pupils aged two to 18

If you hadn’t become a teacher, what career would you have chosen instead?

Probably acting. Both of my parents were on the stage and I have fond memories of the actors who used to come and visit us when I was a child. They were all larger than life and had fantastic stories to tell. I also thoroughly enjoyed performing in plays at school and university, everything from Brecht to Stoppard.

Who would you most like to have as a pupil, if you could pick anyone?

I would very much like to have my grandchildren here, but as they live in the USA and on the Isle of Man, that is unlikely to happen. A celebrity I would like to have taught is David Mitchell, as he has such a sharp mind and quick wit.

Was there any type of school dinner that you couldn’t stand?

Oh yes, beef cobbler with the toughest meat imaginable. School meals are so much better than they used to be!

What was your least favourite lesson?

While I enjoyed doing experiments, I found the theoretical side of science more of a challenge.

Which record would you want with you if you were marooned on a desert island?

Night Swimming by REM reminds me of the time I spent in America and the wonderful warm summers there. Then again, if I were on a hot desert island, I might prefer listening to something that reminded me of England, such as the Oasis album (What’s the Story) Morning Glory.

Is there a television programme that you try to never miss?

University Challenge is one of my favourites. It’s fun trying to answer the questions and you always gain plenty of new knowledge, too. My guilty pleasure is The Big Bang Theory — luckily there seems to be an episode on every time I turn on the television.

What is your favourite film of all time and why?

The Third Man – it’s a classic. The combination of compelling acting, a fantastic soundtrack and superb use of light and dark make it a film I can watch over and over.

What would you like to make disappear from this world?

I would certainly include chewing gum on my list. I can’t bear seeing it roll around in people’s mouths and the mess it causes on pavements.

What is special about your school?

Gosfield is a proper through school, with pupils from ages two to 18 all sharing the same facilities, mixing across the age groups and working together. We are small by design, and really one big, happy family. It always makes me smile when I see Sixth Form students deep in conversation with children half their age or House activities when teenagers are helping prep school pupils.

Did you know?

In the early days of the school, there were various animals that the boarders looked after, including two penguins. One day, they escaped and when they were found, the press reported that they had been safely returned to Gosfield Zoo. The headmaster pointed out that it was not really a zoo and that the school catered mainly for boys! w

Get in touch

Gosfield School

Cut Hedge Park, Halstead Road, Gosfield, Halstead, CO9 1PF. 01787 474040. www.gosfieldschool.org.uk