SPOTLIGHT – RUPERT DEANE
The Spotlight shines on Rupert Deane, Teacher of PE & Games & Prep Sport Co-ordinator.
Rupert was born and grew up in Twickenham before attending Southampton Solent University to study for a BSc (Hons) in Sports Coaching. By that time, he was already coaching multiple women’s, men’s, and county teams. He subsequently became a Community Rugby Coach for England Rugby and returned to further his education by obtaining a PGCE at St Mary’s University, Twickenham.
In 2021, Rupert moved to Bath to pursue a career in teaching, and he relocated to Warminster in 2023. In addition to teaching PE and Games at Warminster, he also serves as a coach with Bath Rugby for the Developing Player Programme and Regional Academy. He coaches an elite invitation Rugby 7s team called The Godfathers, raising money through competition prizes for Young Lives Vs Cancer. Since 2022, he has been the backs/attack coach for Jamaica U19s Rugby, traveling to North and Central America during the summer holidays to coach the team in the Rugby America North competition, which will be held in Mexico this year.
How long have you worked at Warminster?
Since September 2023.
Describe a typical Warminster day for you?
I start the day with a morning catchup with the PE staff, before heading to the top floor of School House for tutor time with my Year 7 Finch tutor group. We share good news stories and play games when we have the time! After this I head back to the PE office where I usually will have a little snack before teaching on the Astro or in the Sports Hall. My favourite part of the day is lunch, especially on a Friday when we have southern fried chicken. In the afternoon I am often outside on the fields teaching rugby, cricket, or hockey with the senior or prep pupils, and maybe some tennis too.
What do you think makes Warminster a special place to live and learn?
The people make Warminster School. The days start and end with smiling pupils and staff, filled with friendliness and the willingness to go the extra mile.
What other Warminster role would you like to try for a day and why?
I’d love to spend a day being a part of the Grounds Team so that I can have a go at driving the Polaris – it looks like so much fun!
What would surprise us about you?
I was once in a school jazz band playing the spoons and also cannot stand sweets!
As a child what did you want to be when you grew up?
A sports commentator, or a bus driver!
What did your school reports say about you?
That I had verbal diarrhea, a very enthusiastic learner who sometimes needed to remember to listen, rather than speak.
Your note/advice to teenage self?
Take every opportunity that feels right, and go with your gut.
Your mantra/motto or favourite quote?
No egos, just amigos!
Any hidden ambitions still to achieve?
To be Head Coach of Harlequins, not sure how realistic it is, but it would save money on my season ticket!
A favourite possession you would save from a fire?
Pokemon cards or my Xabi Alonso signed Liverpool shirt.
Biggest bugbear?
Getting wet socks. It’s the worst, also when people chew gum.
Favourite musician/group?
Oasis.
Guilty pleasure?
Playing PlayStation or Nintendo Switch.
What is your MasterChef signature dish?
‘Three pot pasta’ (simply pasta, tomato sauce, and some veggies… I just use three pots!)
Favourite TV programme?
Bob’s Burgers.
Last book you read?
The Hobbit by J.R.R Tolkin.
Last movie watched?
Hot Fuzz.
Which actor would play you in a movie about your life?
According to Mrs Redwood-Loud, Ryan Reynolds.
Favourite tipple?
Guinness in the winter, a Corona in the summer.
Favorite place/city in the world and why?
Rock, North Cornwall. It’s where I spent every summer of my childhood with family and I have many happy memories from that time. I used to work in a kitchen and on safety boats on the Camel Estuary; best place in the world.