SPOTLIGHT – DEBBIE MUIR
The Spotlight shines on our well-travelled, football loving, energetic Head of Pre-Prep & Head of Prep English, Debbie Muir
Debbie was born and raised in the Midlands and she still calls it home despite not having lived there for nearly 30 years! Debbie moved to Canterbury to study Geography and Professional Education and from there began her teaching career. She has been teaching for more than 20 years and has worked in both the state and independent sectors, additionally spending nearly 5 years working for Service Children’s Education in Germany. Both her children were born in Germany and so she has very fond memories of living there. The big plus being the appeal of outdoor life, and guaranteed weather. Plenty of snow for skiing in the winter months and long, warm summers for family walks and days by the municipal pools!
How long have you worked at Warminster?
Since September 2019.
What’s the best thing about your role?
Being there for the ‘light bulb’ moments. In the Early Years these moments come thick and fast as the children make rapid progress. These moments make everything worthwhile.
Describe a typical day?
Busy, busy, busy! Life in Pre-Prep is always a hub of activity and excitement. There is never a dull moment.
What do you think makes Warminster a special place to live and learn?
I know it’s been said before, but it really is the sense of community. I remember attending an Open Day with my son with the intention of him joining within 2 years. We left with him signed up to join that academic year leaving me with the mammoth task of finding a house and a new job! Warminster had a lot to answer for that year. Thankfully it was meant to be, and our plan was realised. It was the best decision we have ever made.
It’s exciting news about our Courtyard Nursery are you excited to be at the helm?
I am very aware how difficult it is to juggle work and family life and by extending our opening hours I am hoping that we can alleviate worries about childcare that many of our families face. Our aim is to continue to provide high quality provision, all year round, with a range of flexible sessions that give working parents exactly what they need. This new venture is hugely exciting for all of us here at Warminster and it is a privilege to be part of the process that is initiating change. We have a fantastic team of dedicated staff leading this project and we can't wait to facilitate a love of learning with our current cohort and future pupils.
What would surprise us about you?
I’ve moved house 13 times. One of the joys of being a military wife. My grandfather was also an international footballer. My children still enjoy looking at his medals and caps. Football really was a huge part of my upbringing and my family held season tickets for Coventry City for many, many years.
What other Warminster role would you like to try for a day and why?
A Sixth Form teacher. Currently, I spend most of my week with younger pupils and I would love to spend time with older pupils too.
As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?
A teacher! My mother worked in a school and so too did many of my aunties and uncles. It was always going to happen.
What did your school reports say about you?
Be more vocal in class – have faith in your abilities. I was a naturally shy child and happy to sit back and stay out of the spotlight.
Your note/advice to teenage self?
Don’t overthink things and dwell on what you could or should have done. Enjoy the present and make the most of it.
Your mantra/motto or favourite quote?
The only time you should look back is to see how far you have come. Live life to the full.
Hidden ambitions still to achieve?
I would love to play the piano. It’s on my list of things to do when I retire. I attended music school as a child and played in the Coventry Youth Orchestra but never got to learn the piano. I will make sure this happens at some point. Perhaps I will get my daughter to teach me!
Most treasured possession?
Family photos. I could spend hours looking at these.
Biggest bugbear?
Poor manners. I always remember my parents saying that good manners cost nothing. It is something that has always stuck with me.
Favourite musician/group?
The Script or The Killers. Both groups are incredible live. Bryan Adams is also a guilty pleasure of mine. I’ve lost count how many times I have seen him live. I have an eclectic taste in music!
Guilty pleasure?
Chocolate. White, milk or dark – I really don’t mind!
Signature MasterChef dish?
Delia’s Chicken Basque. A one pot wonder that is easy to execute.
Favourite TV programme?
At present, it’s New Amsterdam. A hospital drama that is highly addictive. An easy watch.
Last book you read?
Lady in Waiting: My Extraordinary Life in the Shadow of the Crown by Anne Glenconner. A fantastic read that gives you an insight into the world of royalty and Harry Potter to my daughter.
Last movie watched?
Aladdin at the cinema. I’d recommend it.
Which actor would play you in a movie about your life?
Julie Walters. We are similar heights, share the same birthday month and are both Midlands girls. However, my accent has disappeared over the years. A product of living down South!
Favourite tipple?
Gin and tonic.
Favourite place/city in the world and why?
Rome – I went there to celebrate my last big birthday. It really is a city full of wows. I have travelled a lot and this is still my favourite place of all time. It’s going to be hard to find anywhere that beats it, but I’m willing to give it a go.
Twitter or Facebook?
No preference. However, I’d have many more hours in the day without either of them!
*Exciting news from our Courtyard Nursery We are growing!