Term dates
Term dates
Calendar
Calendar
Register
Register
Call Thorpe House
Call Us
<span>Staff & Governors</span>

Staff & Governors

Meet the team

Our teachers at Thorpe House play a huge role in the success of the school and we are lucky enough to have a team of dedicated staff that are full behind the ethos of the school. They are passionate about bringing out the best in every boy and preparing them to be world ready.

Jake Burnett - Headteacher
Mr Jake Burnett Headteacher

Senior Leadership Team

Mr Sean Day | Deputy Head and DSL Mr Sean Day Deputy Head and DSL [email protected]
Mrs N Doran | Head of Lower School and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead Mrs N Doran Head of Lower School and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead [email protected]

I am married to James and we have two sons, called Euan and Kyle. I have always been a teacher, but with dreams of writing one day. 

I began my career at Eaton Square Schools in Belgravia, before moving to High March School in Beaconsfield, where I worked for five happy years; and then onto Pipers Corner, in the Chilterns, for over eight wonderful years. When I had my first son, I felt moving to a boys’ school would make a refreshing change, following thirteen years of teaching girls. I had, up until that point, recognised what I considered to be unique and spectacular learning traits in Euan. However, he fitted right in at Thorpe House, and I realised it was just that boys are very different learners to girls! 

As the school enters its next phase of development, I am thrilled to be Head of Lower School. I look forward to uniting the younger boys of all ages, in collaborative learning opportunities, growing Forest School and facilitating leadership opportunities for the boys.  

Fun Fact
I met the REAL Father Christmas at the North Pole
Mrs S Jenkin | Director of Studies Mrs S Jenkin Director of Studies [email protected]

I joined Thorpe House School in 2007 to help to implement the Senior Science curriculum during the first year we expanded to include Year 9.  This was a very exciting opportunity as it allowed me to develop the Science curriculum from the start for the whole school.  At the time the only Science laboratory was the junior laboratory.  By the start of the school year in September we will have three bespoke purpose-built laboratories, one for each of the sciences in addition to our original junior laboratory.  My role encompasses Head of Curriculum throughout the school and Head of Science. 

Prior to Thorpe House I worked as the Deputy Headmistress at Sylvia Young’s Theatre School in Marylebone, London. During this time, the school appeared in the top 50 independent schools in Britain for academic achievement – quite a feat for a theatre school.  I thoroughly enjoyed my time there and would not have left had they had not been expanding and moving to a different part of London.  Prior to this I worked at a diverse set of schools including Eton College and Westgate in Slough.

I love my job here at Thorpe House, the class sizes are small enough for you to really give the boys the support they need to achieve the highest possible grades and get to know them as individuals.

Fun Fact
My minor claim to fame before teaching was becoming one of the first female sommeliers in Britain, which has had its uses on various social occasions. I am an avid reader of almost all types of fiction – except romantic fiction and a keen welsh rugby supporter. In addition to my role at school I am also the Chief Examiner for Biology, developing the papers and running the marking of GCSE and A level papers for a prominent examination board.
Mrs J Potter | Finance Manager Mrs J Potter Finance Manager [email protected]
Mr S McCallion | Head of Sixth Form Mr S McCallion Head of Sixth Form [email protected]

I am married to James and we have two sons, called Euan and Kyle. I have always been a teacher, but with dreams of writing one day. 

I began my career at Eaton Square Schools in Belgravia, before moving to High March School in Beaconsfield, where I worked for five happy years; and then onto Pipers Corner, in the Chilterns, for over eight wonderful years. When I had my first son, I felt moving to a boys’ school would make a refreshing change, following thirteen years of teaching girls. I had, up until that point, recognised what I considered to be unique and spectacular learning traits in Euan. However, he fitted right in at Thorpe House, and I realised it was just that boys are very different learners to girls! 

As the school enters its next phase of development, I am thrilled to be Head of Lower School. I look forward to uniting the younger boys of all ages, in collaborative learning opportunities, growing Forest School and facilitating leadership opportunities for the boys.  

Fun Fact
I met the REAL Father Christmas at the North Pole

I joined Thorpe House School in 2007 to help to implement the Senior Science curriculum during the first year we expanded to include Year 9.  This was a very exciting opportunity as it allowed me to develop the Science curriculum from the start for the whole school.  At the time the only Science laboratory was the junior laboratory.  By the start of the school year in September we will have three bespoke purpose-built laboratories, one for each of the sciences in addition to our original junior laboratory.  My role encompasses Head of Curriculum throughout the school and Head of Science. 

Prior to Thorpe House I worked as the Deputy Headmistress at Sylvia Young’s Theatre School in Marylebone, London. During this time, the school appeared in the top 50 independent schools in Britain for academic achievement – quite a feat for a theatre school.  I thoroughly enjoyed my time there and would not have left had they had not been expanding and moving to a different part of London.  Prior to this I worked at a diverse set of schools including Eton College and Westgate in Slough.

I love my job here at Thorpe House, the class sizes are small enough for you to really give the boys the support they need to achieve the highest possible grades and get to know them as individuals.

Fun Fact
My minor claim to fame before teaching was becoming one of the first female sommeliers in Britain, which has had its uses on various social occasions. I am an avid reader of almost all types of fiction – except romantic fiction and a keen welsh rugby supporter. In addition to my role at school I am also the Chief Examiner for Biology, developing the papers and running the marking of GCSE and A level papers for a prominent examination board.

Heads of Department

Mrs P Asher, Head of Geography - [email protected]
Mr C Blango, Head of RS - [email protected]
Mr P Britton, Director of Sport - [email protected]

I have worked at Thorpe House school now for 10 years. I started as an NQT, was promoted to Head of Junior PE and Games in 2012 and have recently taken on the post of Director of Sport. My main passion is rugby and I am a avid Leicester Tigers fan. Having played rugby at a semi-professional level in both England and Holland, now my focus is more towards coaching. Most recently I have been forwards coach for Ruislip Mens 1st XV, I have also coached Bucks County age groups from U15's - U18's. I have a keen interests in other sports including swimming, football, table tennis and basketball.

Fun Fact
I am very allergic to Hyacinth tulip bulbs (Discovered while working at a tulip factory in Holland).
Mr A Hoar, Head of English & Year 9 Form tutor - [email protected]

Kia ora! Welcome to Thorpe House School; a wonderful and vibrant place in which to work and learn. My varied teaching career has seen me work in both State and Independent sectors in a variety of schools in the UK and New Zealand, and I can safely say that I have had my share of interesting and exciting cultural experiences!  Teaching students from a range of ethnic and economic backgrounds, from Pakeha to Pasifika, from South Asian to those from the many regions of the UK, has been enormously rewarding.  It is my passions to help students’ from a wide range of backgrounds explore and engage with our world through the magic of the English language. Having taught English, Psychology and Philosophy, I know that human beings are capable of communicating amazingly complex things in very exciting ways, and I try to bring that sense of enthusiasm and enjoyment to bear within the department. Helping students explore the incredible depth of human feelings, experiences and thoughts that both inspire and amaze is our vocation. Our aim is simple, to help students recognise and celebrate the world around them, so they can find their own talents and successes in doing so. 

Fun Fact
I have two! I used to live close to Mount Doom in Mordor (In fact, just south of Mt Ruapehu in the North Island volcanic plateau in NZ). I am not an agent of Sauron! Taumatawhakatangi hangakoauauotamatea pokaiwhenuakitanatahu (in Hawks Bay, New Zealand) is the longest place name in the English speaking world.
Mrs L Hughes, Head of Drama - [email protected]

I joined the school in 2016 and have worked tirelessly to provide a well rounded and varied Drama curriculum specifically for our boys from Year 3-11. I love nothing more than putting on challenging school productions, they’re always the highlight(s) of the year and I’m always blown away by the incredible talent and commitment shown by the boys! 

Thorpe is it’s boys and it’s staff, a real community of people doing their best for one another, that’s what brought me here and it’s what keeps me here, too!

Fun Fact
Can do almost any accent and can impersonate many singers!
Ms C Kerton, Head of Spanish & Year 9 Form Tutor - [email protected]
Mrs L Macken, Pastoral Head of the Upper School and Geography Teacher - [email protected]

I have been Head of Geography here at Thorpe House since January 2020. I believe all young people should have the opportunity to study this subject as it provides an appreciation and awareness of the world around them. The development of students understanding and develop an informed opinion of places, respect for differing cultures and empathy within our society are vitally important skills to learn in our ever changing world. Outside of the classroom I love to travel and gain an ever growing appreciation for the richness and diversity of the world in which we live.

Mr T McDonough, Head of Music & Year 7 Form tutor - [email protected]
Ms K Soltys, Head of French - [email protected]
Mrs S Saif, Head of Science & Year 11 Form Tutor - [email protected]
Mr N Tomlinson, Head of Art - [email protected]

With twenty years teaching experience, I still do not consider myself a teacher as there is always something new to learn especially from the students. 

My previous experiences include negotiating high value contracts in the City of London as a broker, dealing with VIP clients in Interior Design even the Queen, and working in the Film and TV industry taught me to have a high level of professionalism, to lead and inspire others with a positive vision and to strive for success. Also military service includes Volunteer Reserve RAF and Oxford OTC (Guards regiment)

I have always endeavoured to make Art relevant to the needs and interests of the students, and constantly strive to provide an invigorating experience for all students. Students experience considerations of an aesthetic nature and develop their creative skills to create individual responses to concepts and themes. They engage in drawing, painting, printmaking, multimedia projects, sculpture, ceramics, photography and filmmaking.

I have organised various art trips over the years including Spain, Paris, London, Oxford, contemporary and national galleries and special exhibitions.

Art is used academically to underpin intellectual pursuits and also as a release as a much needed expressive outlet. The Art department operates an open door policy to all to provide an extracurricular activity, Art Clubs, GCSE after school groups and other students wanting to make a visual impression in other subjects.

Over the past years, my students have produced the most amazing work, most receiving A or A*, or 7+ and it has been an honour and privilege to help them.

Thorpe House is an extremely exciting and fulfilling place to work; developing the senior school, helping with a range of extra curricula and providing high quality art education to all. Art has been recognised as being ‘a strength’ of the school since its inception.

Other roles

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Manager

Advisor to students applying for Art Colleges/Universities, Oxford & Cambridge 

Experienced Rower/Coach winning various cups 

Consultant in Art and Creativity

Artist

Fun Fact
I often stay and have dinner in the Great Hall at Hogwarts and if anyone else wants to join me you are all welcome.
Miss A Wrobel, Head of DT and Year 7 Form Tutor - [email protected]
Mr A Worth, Head of History - [email protected]

I found my way into teaching through a rather bizarre route; having first worked with children whilst at university, helping them to excavate a medieval manor house in South Devon and English Civil War era modifications to an Oxfordshire Norman motte and bailey castle. Giving young people a physical and hands on experience of objects from the past moved my career aspirations from spending my life outside in rain and mud digging up bones to being in a dry warm classroom getting young people to understand and care about the importance of the past and how it explains where we are as a nation and planet today.

I joined Thorpe House in 2012, theoretically on a one year maternity cover and have been around ever since; with the exception of the Autumn Term 2019 when I disappeared off to Japan, South-East Asia, Australia and New Zealand for a few months to experience different places, food, languages and people. It was quite a coincidence that the Rugby World Cup happened to be on at the same time.

Outside of the classroom I spend my free time putting on my best Devonian accent (from 4 years experience) whilst supporting Exeter Chiefs at rugby matches in and around London. I enjoy looking at maps, both historical and modern (as any boy who has been in one of my history classes will attest) and listening to a range of rock and jazz music; or any recommendations from the boys who attend music club in school, who have, on rare occasions, found something good to listen to.

Fun Fact
Is undefeated in 1vs1 games on the school table football table for 3 academic years.
Mr D Degun, Head of Maths and Year 8 Form Tutor - [email protected]
Mrs P Kaur, Head of Learning Support - [email protected]
Mrs V Krishnappan, Head of Computing - [email protected]

Middle & Upper School

Mrs P Asher, Head of Geography - [email protected]
Dr J Bates, Chemistry Teacher - [email protected]

I have loved chemistry since I was very young. The magic that anything is possible has really only been surpassed in the world of technology.

I did the sciences at school, Chemistry and Food Science at university and a PhD in alcoholic fermentation to support my professor's home brew magazine. After teaching science for 10 years I switched to IT and have returned to my roots this year.

Fun Fact
Unfortunately my wine is rarely drinkable.
Mrs K Beevor, English Teacher - [email protected]
Mr J Brawn, Pastoral Head of the Middle School & PE Teacher - [email protected]

I joined Thorpe as a PE teacher straight from the university of Brighton in 2017. Since then, I have taken up many extra roles such as Head of Rugby, Duke of Edinburgh Lead and ski trip organiser. In 2021 I was newly appointed as the Head of Middle school which is a role i have always strived to achieve. My aim is to provide the Middle School with both challenge and support throughout their transitions into the next years and senior school.

Fun Fact
At the university of Brighton I was a part of the dance company Kickstart. We performed a show each term and also competed and won several dance competitions.
Mr D Correia, Lower & Middle School Teacher & Year 4 Tutor - [email protected]

I really, really wanted to be a secondary PE teacher when I started my degree. Then one day a colleague suggested that I experience education within the Primary age range before making any decisions. Initially I laughed out loud, but then I took his advice and went on a work placement at my old primary school. After a few months I was a changed man.  The fun, the creativity, the curiosity and the love for learning had me instantly hooked.  16 years later and here I am, still enjoying teaching for the same reasons.

Fun Fact
I’ve met Voldermort!
Miss L Chapman, Science Teacher - [email protected]
Mrs J Delve, Learning Support - [email protected]

After spending some time in the worlds of publishing and theatre, I taught English and Drama in London schools for several years before being appointed a SENCO in Harrow in 1995. I came to Thorpe as a part-time Learning Support teacher in 2011, after having my own children, and have managed to combine my three loves: working alongside my fabulous Learning Support colleagues, supporting some outstanding teaching in the English department and stage managing the Senior school play.

Mr D Degun, Head of Maths and Year 8 Form Tutor - [email protected]
Mrs I Devlin, Interim Pastoral Head of the Middle School and English Teacher - [email protected]

Moi!
I grew up in Finland and still have very fond memories of my schooling there with PE lessons including ice-hockey and downhill skiing. My love of sports lessened to simply watching ice-hockey but the love of the challenge remained: after completing my Master's Degree in English, as well as a double degree in teaching, I decided to move to England to work and have not looked back since. My passion for English Literature, the eagerness of Thorpe House students and the school's family-like atmosphere have only confirmed that feeling.

Fun Fact
As a young child, I wanted to become a formula 1-driving princess and got as far as sitting behind the steering wheel of the former F1 champion, Keke Rosberg's, race car. Since the two aspirations didn't quite seem to mix that well together, I became an English teacher instead...
Mr B Eaton, PE Teacher, Year 10 Form Tutor and PSHEE - [email protected]
Mr M Heppner-Logan, Games Coach & Year 7 Tutor - [email protected]

I have always enjoyed working with young people and coaching sport. I joined the Thorpe community in 2009 as a parent and in 2010 as a member of the PE dept. Having played and coached rugby for most of my life, I now also lead youth rugby for Bucks RFU and manage a county squad. For many years I was a coach and the chair of the junior section at Gerrards Cross Cricket Club.  It is so rewarding to work with young people, encouraging them to take part and achieve their potential. Initially working with young offenders, I learnt how to listen, engage and support them to be their best and the importance of mutual respect and making things fun. These values have stayed with me through my many years of coaching sport and this is a good fit with Thorpe, with its friendly and supportive culture.

Fun Fact
I met my wife when we were both volunteers at a Romanian orphanage.
Mrs J MacMillan, Learning Support - [email protected]
Mrs L Nicholson, Art/DT Technician -
Dr T Nandhra, Science Teacher and Year 11 Form Tutor - [email protected]
Mrs S Saif, Head of Science & Year 11 Form Tutor - [email protected]
Mrs R Swede, Diagnostic Teacher - [email protected]
Mrs M Wade, Lower School Learning Support - [email protected]
Mr A Worth, Head of History - [email protected]

I found my way into teaching through a rather bizarre route; having first worked with children whilst at university, helping them to excavate a medieval manor house in South Devon and English Civil War era modifications to an Oxfordshire Norman motte and bailey castle. Giving young people a physical and hands on experience of objects from the past moved my career aspirations from spending my life outside in rain and mud digging up bones to being in a dry warm classroom getting young people to understand and care about the importance of the past and how it explains where we are as a nation and planet today.

I joined Thorpe House in 2012, theoretically on a one year maternity cover and have been around ever since; with the exception of the Autumn Term 2019 when I disappeared off to Japan, South-East Asia, Australia and New Zealand for a few months to experience different places, food, languages and people. It was quite a coincidence that the Rugby World Cup happened to be on at the same time.

Outside of the classroom I spend my free time putting on my best Devonian accent (from 4 years experience) whilst supporting Exeter Chiefs at rugby matches in and around London. I enjoy looking at maps, both historical and modern (as any boy who has been in one of my history classes will attest) and listening to a range of rock and jazz music; or any recommendations from the boys who attend music club in school, who have, on rare occasions, found something good to listen to.

Fun Fact
Is undefeated in 1vs1 games on the school table football table for 3 academic years.
Mrs E Giordan, Maths Teacher - [email protected]
Mr J Honour, Maths Teacher - [email protected]
Mrs V Krishnappan, Head of Computing - [email protected]
Mr G Clark, Physics Teacher - [email protected]
Mr C Campbell, Science Teacher - [email protected]
Mrs V Aggarwal, Maths Teacher - [email protected]

Lower School

Mrs E Apuzzo, Reception Teacher - [email protected]
Mrs H Bangs, Year 4 Teacher (Maternity Leave) - [email protected]
Mr D Correia, Lower & Middle School Teacher & Year 4 Tutor - [email protected]

I really, really wanted to be a secondary PE teacher when I started my degree. Then one day a colleague suggested that I experience education within the Primary age range before making any decisions. Initially I laughed out loud, but then I took his advice and went on a work placement at my old primary school. After a few months I was a changed man.  The fun, the creativity, the curiosity and the love for learning had me instantly hooked.  16 years later and here I am, still enjoying teaching for the same reasons.

Fun Fact
I’ve met Voldermort!
Mrs N Francis, Lower School Classroom Assistant - [email protected]
Mrs S Haddow, Year 2 Teacher - [email protected]
Mrs J Hazell, Lower School Classroom Assistant - [email protected]
Mr C Hipwell, Year 6 Teacher and Lower School Numeracy Coordinator - [email protected]
Mr M Jenkin, Year 5 Teacher - [email protected]

I joined Thorpe House in 2010 immediately after finishing a masters degree in English. I started here rather belatedly as a gap year student, testing the water and seeing if teaching was what I wanted to do. After having opportunities to assist with lessons throughout the school I realised that I wanted to teach in primary education, very specifically, here. After being given the chance to gain another year of experience, the school funded and helped to train me, before hiring me as a Year 2 teacher. Due to my love of the school, its ethos and the boys, I have stayed since, the only change being to move into Year 4  and I continue to maintain that I hope to end my career here as well. Along with classroom teaching, I'm regularly involved in writing and lighting for productions, and have for 9 years have coached chess within the school.

Outside of school, I like to chess at a club level, catch up with as much reading as I can and enjoy spending plenty of quality time with my Playstation 4.

Fun Fact
I once represented the UK in the world championships of the video game Guitar Hero 3.
Mrs S Jones, Forest School Leader - [email protected]
Mrs V Pidwell, Year 3 Teacher and Lower School Literacy Coordinator - [email protected]
Ms K Nicholls, Year 1 Teacher and Acting Head of Lower Curriculum - [email protected]
Mrs G Reisinger, Music Teacher - [email protected]
Mrs M Wade, Lower School Learning Support - [email protected]

Peripatetic Teachers

Ms Helen Bartlett, Peripatetic Music Teacher (Violin) -
Ms N Hands, Woodwind and voice -
Ms F Hill, Piano -
Mr P Mallyon, Drums -
Mr A McLean, Perioatetic Music Teacher (piano) -
Mrs G Reisinger, Music Teacher - [email protected]
Mr G Sculpher, Electric Guitar -
Ms K Stallabrass, Piano -
Mr M Talks, Cello -
Mr J Woodward, Percussion and Drums -

Administration

Mr R Andrews, Chef -
Mr S Barber, Facilities Manager - [email protected]
Mrs J Bevan, Receptionist - [email protected]

I have been at the school for 10 years, and my son came here too so I speak with great experience. The reception area is the hub of the school and I love my job because I have the pleasure of talking to the boys, parents and visitors every day.

Fun Fact
Way to my heart is chocolate and George Clooney!
Mrs R Bentley, Kitchen Assistant -
Miss L Butt, Lower School Office Manager - [email protected]

I joined Thorpe House in September 2011 having spent two years previously working as a school secretary in an independent girls school.  I am the first point of contact for boys and parents in the Lower School and am also a first aider.  Prior to working at Thorpe I had been working as a PA in the business world but had always wanted to work in a school environment.  I love the fact that no day is ever the same when you work in a school!  It’s an incredibly satisfying job where you really do feel that you’re making a difference. 

Fun Fact
When I’m not at school I enjoy hiking, getting out on my bike and generally keeping fit and active. I’m a purple & white belt in Shotokan Karate and have run two London marathons. I am also a big football fan and support Chelsea (sorry to all the non-Chelsea fans).
Mrs J Gaine, Head of Marketing & Alumni - [email protected]

My background is PR and Brand sponsorship and before joining Thorpe House I used to be part of the team that organised the Isle of Wight Festival. It was an absolute passion of mine and I just loved the excitement and buzz around the Festival. After having my two boys I wanted to find something closer to home and Thorpe House was a great fit. Since joining I have really enjoyed the new challenge and everyone has been incredibly welcoming. 

Fun Fact
I used to be a Synchronised Swimmer and was trained to be a national judge.
Mrs N Khawaja, Lab Technician -
Mrs Y Mullally, After School Club -
Mrs M Mosley, Assistant Chef -
Mrs F Obamakin, HR Officer - [email protected]
Mrs J Potter, Finance Manager - [email protected]
Ms M Sehra, Kitchen Assistant -
Mrs J Tyler, Registrar and Headmaster’s PA - [email protected]

As Registrar I am one of the first point of contacts for both parents and boys and it’s so lovely to get to know everyone at the start of their Thorpe House journey.

I really enjoy working with staff at Thorpe House and I have been here 9 years, it is such a warm family feel school.  If we haven’t yet met I very much look forward to meeting with you.

Fun Fact
I got married on Live Aid Day!
Mrs C Young, Finance Manager's Assistant - [email protected]

Governors

Mr Richard Tufft , Chair, chair of Finance/Estates and Risk Committee
Mr Richard Coward , Risk Committee, ICT group

Governor since 2003 (Chairman from 2005 to 2015). He is an old boy of the school and both sons also attended Thorpe in the 1990s and went to Oxbridge. Richard has recently retired from running a consultancy company which dealt with energy and telecommunications solutions.

Mrs Rennie Raja , Safeguarding and Health and Safety

Governor since January 2019. I am a mother of three children, two girls and one boy. My son is a current student in year 7 at Thorpe House. I am currently Chair of the Parents' Association and have been since 2015. I thoroughly enjoy my role, as it gives me great pleasure to be able help make a difference to the school. Before I had my children I used to work in credit control as a debt collector. I am currently director of RMJ properties.

Mr Mike Wakefield , Finance/Estates Committee, Alumni and Marketing Steering Group

Governor since September 2018 and until recently working world-wide in the logistics industry.

Mrs Ruth Webber , Education Committee, Health and Safety and Risk Commitee

Governor since September 2016. A former primary teacher and a non-executive director of her husband's family engineering business. Ruth is heavily involved in many community-based projects in the local area. Ruth's son went through the school and left in 2015 to go to Berkhamsted.  Currently the governor responsible for staff welfare.

Mr Andy Bristow , Staff Welfare Governor, Education Committee

Governor from September 2021.  Andy has more than 30 years of teaching experience, the last 20 of which have been at  Dr Challoners’s Grammar.  As both Head of Science and Sixth Form Tutor during this time, he has overseen numerous ex-Thorpe boys successfully progress on to the next stage of their educational journey.