Biography of Marian

Marian trained to become a teacher in Roehampton. Her main subject was music.

Marian’s first job, teaching reception children, was in Redhill, Surrey in 1978. She then worked in a primary school in Tonbridge.

She ultimately became Head of Sedlescombe School and was there for 25 years. She never expected to become a Head. She had to work long hours, and over time, she says, the paperwork became more onerous. But she always enjoyed the children and still found time to do music production at school.

When she became a Head Teacher there were fewer women in the role. ‘When I was appointed there was a bit of a shock to the school environment, the staff, and I remember the cooks thinking, we don’t want a woman… and I think the parents probably had a bit of adjustment to do, to think there was a woman Head Teacher and was this person going to be as strong as a man…but overtime that changed.’

Marian is now retired from her role but she still teaches music three days a week – she teaches piano at Hurst Green, and works at Frewen College in Northiam and also works teaching adults and children piano and singing at home. She also teaches community singing for children at Rye Creative Centre. The children take part in productions and sing for residents at a number of care homes.

Audio of interview with Marian