SPOTLIGHT ON…

KATHARINE BRANCH, RECEPTIONIST, BOHUNT WORTHING

What does a typical day look like to you and what are you currently working on?

A very busy start with students arriving at school, staff needing things from the office, taking phone calls and signing in visitors. Recently, I’ve been meeting and greeting the many candidates for interviews for Bohunt Horsham. Training new members of staff; dealing with students, particularly at lunch time – reuniting lost property with owners and collecting students for appointments. We are preparing to welcome the new Y6 parents at the end of March – lots of administration involved.

What 3 words would you use to describe your role?

Busy, varied and exciting.

What is on your wish list for the next five years at BET?

To continue to provide a warm and friendly welcome to our visitors and students.

What’s your favourite line from a film?

What gets you out of bed in the morning?

To seize the day! Plenty of time for rest and relaxation when I get older. Get up and get out there and make the most of the day! Knowing that I do a job that makes a difference and I’m appreciated.

How would you describe your day job to a child?

I’m the first person people see when they visit the school. I make sure they feel welcome and sort out who they need to see. I answer the telephone and deal with emails; I also look after the students who need help with things like lost property and timetables etc.

What is your biggest achievement to date, personal or professional?

Having my son (now at University), a tandem skydive from 10,000 feet on my 50th – I had amazing views over Stonehenge. Also getting a job in a brand new school.

From Forest Gump: ‘Life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you gonna get.’

What do you like most about your job?

There is never a dull moment, I’ve never been bored and I love the variety, no two days are ever the same. And it’s all about the people I work with.

What are your biggest professional challenges?

Dealing with parents who are emotional/unhappy and angry and remaining calm in the face of adversity – most of the time!

What’s your personal mantra?

Success is not the key to happiness, happiness is the key to success.