SPOTLIGHT – JILL CHEETHAM
The spotlight turns to Jill Cheetham, our world cruising, London loving, honorary OV and PA to the Deputy Heads'.
Jill was born just inside the Greater London boundary bordering Kent so is proud to be a ‘Londoner’. After gaining secretarial qualifications, Jill spent a few years working at the Ministry of Defence in Whitehall. Life then took her on a short stint to Glasgow. On returning to London, she worked for 10 years at the Daily Express on Fleet Street, working in various departments and for the Editor and other well-known journalists. Following a move to Warminster, Jill joined Warminster School as Senior School Secretary and has since been given her current title, after various changes in her role and working for 6 Deputy Heads during her time here. She also enjoyed 10 years of matron duty in Stratton House. Jill is married with 2 adult daughters who she loves to spend time with.
How long have you worked at Warminster?
22 and a quarter years. I am proud to say I am an honorary Old Verlucian and wear my scarf with pride.
What’s the best thing about your role?
Variation, I never get bored as every day something happens that changes the whole format of the day. I love it and would not have it any other way.
Describe a typical day?
As soon as I arrive in the office someone appears with some question/dilemma to be sorted and before I know it we are at the end of another school day. We have visits from numerous pupils and staff for a whole variety of reasons which keeps me on my toes. The Foundry, where I work is a hub and sometimes it feels like I am in the midst of Charing Cross station!!
What do you think makes Warminster a special place to live and learn?
Many of the staff, especially the long serving ones, have the School in their heart. I can relate to this, it's not something tangible but something felt. Warminster School is a special place and staff and pupils make it such.
What would surprise us about you?
I am a big fan of being on the sea and cruising holidays. I have cruised on the Cunard Queens and over the past 7 years, have visited 19 countries and 32 cities with hopefully many more to come.
What other Warminster role would you like to try for a day and why?
I would enjoy spending a day tending the beautiful grounds that we have here, out in the fresh air. It would have to be a sunny, summer day though as that is my favourite time of year.
As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?
A journalist – ironically, I ended up working for a national newspaper but on the other side of the fence!
What did your school reports say about you?
Jill always works hard and tries her best.
Your note/advice to teenage self?
Believe in yourself and you can achieve anything.
Your mantra/motto or favourite quote?
You sleep long enough when you are gone so why sleep now!!
Hidden ambitions still to achieve?
To walk the whole of the UK coastal path.
Most treasured possession?
My photographs of my daughters, husband and past family members.
Biggest bugbear?
Dishonesty.
Favourite musician/group?
Zero 7, a London band whose music helps me to drift off to another place.
Guilty pleasure?
Kettle Chips – the black pepper and salt variety.
Signature MasterChef dish?
Key Lime Pie.
Favourite TV programme?
Silent Witness.
Last book you read?
Elinor Oliphant is Completely Fine by Gail Honeyman, a very thought provoking story.
Last movie watched?
1917.
Which actor would play you in a movie about your life?
Helen Mirren – I can be quite stern I am told!
Favourite tipple?
Champagne.
Favourite place/city in the world and why?
London my hometown, a place of multi culturalism, history and stunning architecture.
Twitter or Facebook?
Facebook for keeping tabs on my family and friends.