What is your role at Blackheath High School? 

I am a Computer Science Teacher, with a passion for inspiring students to see technology as both creative and empowering. 

How long have you been teaching for? 

I have been teaching for 15 years, and I still find it just as rewarding as when I first stepped into the classroom. 

 Where and what did you study? 

I studied Communications and Audio-Visual Production at London Guildhall University, driven by a strong interest in technology within broadcasting and media. In my fourth year of teaching, I completed a Master’s degree in Leading Innovation and Change in Education at St Mary’s University, Twickenham, which allowed me to further develop my leadership skills and passion for educational innovation. 

How did you know that teaching was the profession for you? 

After university, I pursued opportunities in TV, film, and radio, followed by a role in banking, where technology was always at the centre of my work. No matter the role, I seemed to naturally fall into helping others understand and use technology.  

My turning point into teaching came when I became a Schools Network officer, supporting teachers and students with Computing lessons and delivering training across the borough. I realised that the parts of my previous roles I enjoyed most - creativity, leadership, and engaging an audience - were at the heart of teaching. With encouragement from family members already in education, I trained as an ICT teacher and never looked back. 

Why Blackheath High School? What sets the school apart? 

I was born and raised in Greenwich and still live locally, so teaching at Blackheath High School feels very special to me. I attended local schools myself, and being so connected to the area gives me a strong sense of belonging and nostalgia. 

Before joining Blackheath High School, I worked in state schools and most recently in an all-girls grammar school, where I loved teaching highly motivated students. I wanted to continue making a positive impact by encouraging girls to be confident, curious, and excited about computing and technology, and Blackheath High School felt like the perfect place to do that. 

What inspires you and gets you out of bed in the morning? 

My love for technology and creativity is what motivates me most. Teaching allows me to combine both, whether that’s through innovative lessons, unplugged activities, or role play that helps students understand complex ideas away from the screen. I enjoy creating real-life, meaningful contexts for learning and helping students grow into confident, well-rounded digital citizens and tech ambassadors. 

What kind of leader are you? 

I am a supportive and collaborative leader who believes in leading by example. I value creativity, openness, and continuous learning, and I aim to empower both students and colleagues to feel confident trying new ideas and taking positive risks. 

Who are your role models? 

My biggest role model is my mum. She arrived in the UK from India as a young newlywed and built her life through resilience, determination and hard work. She has always believed in giving your best and completing every task to a high standard. She’s also shown me that it’s never too late to learn something new or start a new adventure. Her love of sewing and design has influenced my own passion for sewing and design. 

Professionally, I have been inspired by two leaders I worked with earlier in my career - my Senior Network Manager and then my Head of Faculty at my first school, a mixed comprehensive. They showed me how to build honest, supportive teams, empowering individuals by valuing their strengths while encouraging the development of new skills. 

Both approached challenges from different perspectives and thinking outside the box with an almost oracle-like wisdom - calm, insightful, and forward-thinking - and were deeply committed to empowering women, creating environments where confidence, opportunity, and ambition could flourish.  

Tell us a fun fact about yourself?

I took part in the 2012 Paralympic Opening Ceremony, representing Benin. The costume I wore is now displayed in a museum - a truly unforgettable experience. You can see me in the ceremony here (41 mins and 33 secs in!).

What are you most passionate about in life? 

My family means everything to me. I am passionate about doing the right thing, leading by example for my daughter, and helping to create a fair, kind, and inclusive society. 

What are you favourite hobbies? 

Sewing, crafting, and upcycling - I love giving things a second life. I also enjoy watching all kinds of sport, driven by my competitive nature, and supporting my family-run hot sauce business, where we produce four varieties based on a treasured family recipe. I also love dancing and playing the dhol [a percussion instrument] - anything that brings energy, movement, and joy. 

If someone made a film of your life, who would play you? 

Archie Panjabi - an Emmy-winning actress from the UK. 

Who are your favourite musicians? 

A taste for both lively Western and Bhangra beats and the reflective piano works of Ludovico Einaudi. Music that makes me want to dance, especially anything with rhythm and energy.