DR SARAH JL PAYNE

After completing A-levels, Sarah went straight on to study Medicine at UCL, achieving a first class Honours in her Intercalated BSc and final MBBS exams. She went on to complete her junior doctor training in a number of London hospitals, during which time she made a decision to specialise in Oncology. She started her specialist registrar (SPR) training in Medical Oncology at St Bartholomew’s Hospital in 2003. She was awarded an MRC grant to complete a PhD in breast cancer during her training, which she successfully completed in 2010.

Sarah most recently transferred to Guys and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in March 2014, to gain valuable experience working in another centre of excellence. Sarah successfully completed her training in January 2015 and was appointed a post CCT fellow at Guys and St Thomas’ Hospital with a specialist interest in education. She was simultaneously appointed as undergraduate lead in clinical skills development for the Trust and oncology lead for undergraduate curriculum development. Sarah is currently an Honorary Medical Oncology Consultant at Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital and Medical Affairs Manager at Pfizer.

Sarah is married to Iain Soulsby, a local dentist, and they have two daughters, Charlotte who is still at nursery, and Emily, who is at Blackheath High Junior School. Both Iain and Sarah are very active on the BHS Parents Association and Sarah is also Vice-Chairman of our Old Girls’ Association.

“My interest in teaching and education has very much been influenced by my time as a pupil at BHS, and the extensive opportunities I had to lead and teach. I particularly remember organising the Science Society and seeing the enjoyment of the other pupils when we ran sessions on “Bubbles” and the “Science of the Flame”.

“It is lovely to see that the atmosphere is still warm, friendly and personal as well as supportive of individual development and achievement. It has been fantastic to stay connected with the school and watch Emily, and soon Charlotte to have the opportunity to be part of such a wonderful school community” says Sarah.