Head of St Cedd’s School in Chelmsford, Dr Pamela Edmonds, has not strayed from her chosen career path, although her journey has offered plenty of scope to travel the world

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

International hotel management was mentioned, among other options, by the school career adviser, but I always wanted to teach and, looking back at my career, I could not have chosen a more fulfilling profession. I have been able to travel the world too — I have taught in Spain, Japan, Hong Kong, Thailand and Singapore.

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

Anyone who is enthusiastic and willing to learn. There is nothing more rewarding than opening someone’s eyes to the joys of life-long learning. It’s what great teachers do.

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

School dinners were nutritionally sound but gastronomically challenging! That is why I place great emphasis at St Cedd’s School on providing a great choice of good food and, where possible, use local suppliers to support Essex producers.

What was your least favourite lesson?

History. A fascinating subject taught by a less than inspirational teacher. On the other hand, my maths teacher expected great things of us and I still have that passion for the subject. He showed me what I was capable of achieving and the lessons were challenging and fun — qualities I am passionate about delivering in my own teaching environment.

If you were Prime Minister for one day, what would be the first thing you’d do?

I would initiate a voucher scheme to widen the access to independent schools and ensure that existing fee-paying parents do not pay twice for the education their children receive. All children deserve world-class teaching and facilities.

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

If I need to choose one, it would have to be I Feel Good by James Brown. My two daughters keep me in tune with popular music, but in the car I listen to an eclectic mix from Classic FM, Muse and Nicola Benedetti to James Blunt and Hugh Laurie.

What would you like to make disappear from this world?

All the big global problems including war, famine, floods, and cruelty. Closer to home, I would like to make graffiti disappear.

Is there a television programme that you make sure you never miss?

I enjoy dramas with intriguing detective and spy storylines such as Foyle’s War, Spooks, Silent Witness and Broadchurch.

What is your favourite film of all time and why?

The Imitation Game. My parents met at Bletchley Park — my mother was assigned to German and Japanese decoding in Block C and my father worked for the British Tabulating Company on the search engine, the Bombe. It was very special for us to see the film together.

How do you relax away from work?

I play bridge, have the occasional game of squash, jog and I love to read. My most enjoyable way to relax is to watch a performance at the Royal Opera House.

What is special about your school?

Our children are encouraged to stretch their boundaries, develop supple minds and reach for the highest standards. Our teachers are uncompromising in their desire to provide the right kind of support for each individual and the result is a happy, well-grounded child. We provide an expansive academic curriculum, first-class music and sport and an all-round education.

Did you know?

First established in 1931, we are celebrating 84 successful years, as confirmed by the latest inspection achieving ‘excellent’ in all aspects! Our baccalaureate-style curriculum in Year 6 provides an exceptional preparation for life-long learning. We teach international studies to celebrate our diversity and actively promote pupils’ knowledge of global issues, and we offer more than 70 free after-school activities – with provision from 7.30am to 6pm for all our children, including those in our nursery.

Get in Touch

St Cedd’s School

178 New London Road Chelmsford

Essex CM2 0AR

01245 392810

www.stcedds.co.uk