Meet Deputy Head of Prep, Helen Roe

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Helen Roe as our new Deputy Head of Prep School. Mrs Roe brings a wealth of experience, dedication, and a strong commitment to excellence in education. Please join us in warmly welcoming her to this role and wishing her every success. To help everyone get to know her a little better, we asked her a few questions.

Welcome Mrs Roe! How long have you been at Lingfield? 

I have been at Lingfield for seven years. I initially joined the school part-time, teaching Year 1 before moving to Year 6. In 2021, I became Head of Upper Key Stage 2. During my time at Lingfield, I have also held the roles of Computing Lead, PSHE Lead and Assessment Lead. In addition, I am currently a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Looking back at your time at Lingfield so far, what are you most proud of? 

I am particularly proud of helping to introduce and develop Seesaw as a tool for learning and communication and Crumble which we have used to catch Father Christmas(!) as well as leading exciting initiatives such as STEM Week and Enterprise and our amazing annual residential trip to Bowles with Year 6. I have also enjoyed being involved with Little and Loud Choir, Year 6 Leavers Assemblies and anything musical! These opportunities have helped enrich the pupils' learning experiences and encouraged creativity, collaboration and confidence across the school.

What are you most looking forward to about being Deputy Head of Prep?

I am most looking forward to working closely with staff, pupils and families to ensure we continue to provide the very best possible experience for every child. It is an exciting opportunity to help shape and develop the Prep School while maintaining the values and sense of community that make Lingfield so special.

Having taught in the school already, what do you think makes the Prep experience here particularly special?

The people. We have wonderful pupils who are enthusiastic, kind and eager to learn, alongside a highly dedicated and collaborative staff team. There is a genuine sense of community throughout the school, with strong relationships between pupils, staff and families that create a warm, supportive and welcoming environment. It is a fantastic place to work and a wonderful community to be a part of - I feel very privileged. 

From your experience in the classroom, what do you think matters most during a child's Prep years?

For me, the most important thing is nurturing a lifelong love of learning. The Prep years are about helping children develop confidence, resilience, curiosity and independence, while ensuring they feel supported and valued as individuals. If children enjoy learning and believe in themselves, they are well placed to succeed both academically and personally.

Are there any particular areas you're looking forward to championing or developing in your new role?

I am looking forward to continuing to promote pupil wellbeing alongside academic excellence. I am particularly passionate about providing enriching opportunities beyond the classroom, supporting innovation in teaching and learning, and ensuring every child feels known, supported and encouraged to reach their full potential.

 

What do you think you will miss about not having your own class?

I will miss the daily routines and the special relationships that develop when you spend every day with the same class. There is something very rewarding about watching children grow over the course of a year and having a direct impact on their learning and development. However, I am excited that my new role will allow me to work with and support children across the whole Prep School.

If you could join one Prep club or activity as a pupil, which would you choose?

Definitely Musical Theatre. I love the creativity, teamwork and confidence it encourages, and it's such great fun!

And most importantly… what's your favourite Lingfield school lunch?

The soups - they are always soooo tasty!