At the end of this term, we will sadly be saying goodbye and good luck to our Deputy Head (Pastoral) Mrs Maddison, who will be leaving after 21 years at Blackheath High School. 

We caught up with Mr Alaru who will be joining us in the new year as our new Deputy Head (Staff and Students).

Tell us a bit about the school and role you’re coming from.

The school I am coming from is South Hampstead High School, another GDST school based in North West London. I started there in September 2017 as Drama Teacher and Head of Year 8. I soon became Assistant Head Teacher, with overall pastoral responsibility for students in Years 9 - 11, and continued on as Head of Year, taking them through to Year 11. My primary focus was the social and emotional well-being of the students and implementing pastoral strategies such as wellness week and the 'whole school busy scheme', alongside directing multiple school productions.

What are your first impressions of Blackheath High School?

As soon as I walked into Blackheath, it felt very warm and welcoming. Despite being a London school, it definitely had a community feel, with a great sense of belonging. I loved its positive energy, the smiling faces and caring atmosphere throughout the school.

What are you most looking forward to at Blackheath High School?

I’m looking forward to taking on the role of Deputy Head in a school that embraces diversity, celebrates creativity and welcomes people from all walks of life.

Tell us about a challenge you have overcome / your proudest achievement.

Along with many people, facing the challenge of teaching online has been something we’ve all had to overcome. The added challenge of teaching a practical subject like Drama online really made me think outside the box. We’ve learnt to adapt quickly and use technology in a creative way. My proudest career achievement would, without a doubt, be getting Deputy Headship at Blackheath High School.

Tell us something interesting about you.

I love escape rooms. I enjoy the challenge of solving puzzles while working in a team and having fun.