Staff Profile: Mrs Haniak

Mrs Haniak is an Assistant Headteacher and a member of the Maths department in school. Let’s find out a bit more about her!

What is your role at Our Lady’s

I’m one of the Assistant Headteachers

How long have you worked here - Can you remember your first impressions, how do they compare to your feelings now?

I first started in September 2010. I had only just turned 22 and I remember thinking the year 10 and 11s all looked and acted older than me! I definitely don’t look young anymore (though still act it from time to time ��)

What is your favourite thing about working in secondary education?

Seeing our students arrive as children and leave as mature young adults ready to face the real world

What does a typical day for Mrs Haniak look like?

I’m up at 5am everyday to see my kids and get them ready before I head in to work for 7am. I tend to have meetings before school, I usually teach 2 or 3 periods a day and have meetings in between. Plus duty at lunch time. And more meetings after school.

Where is your favourite place you have visited? Do you have any other destinations you would like to visit?

Oslo in Norway. The city is beautiful and the fjords took my breath away! I love the Norwegian saying ‘there’s no such thing as bad weather just bad clothing’.

I’d love to go to New Zealand. I’ve not spent much time travelling that side of the world!

What do you consider your greatest achievement to date?

Running my first half marathon. I’m not a natural runner and I had to work really hard at my stamina and fitness to complete it

Favourite film or TV show?

The Matrix – I was 12 when it came out and it blew my mind

Favourite song or piece of music?

The Sound of Silence - Disturbed

Favourite cuisine or meal?

Italian

What are your hobbies outside of school?

I’m into running, climbing, yoga and Pilates but my main hobby is roller derby.

Who would you most like to meet and why?

Michelle Obama – I’ve just finished reading her autobiography and she is truly inspiring.

Best bit of advice for students at Our Lady’s

Be yourself. Only when you accept and love yourself can you truly flourish and that’s when you’ll succeed in life.