Developing Our Staff In-House – Growing Talent and Leadership at Downe House

At Downe House, we believe that investing in our staff is just as important as investing in our students. Through tailored in-house development programmes, mentoring, and CPD opportunities, we give our staff the tools, skills, and confidence to grow within the School. By nurturing talent internally, we foster leadership, innovation, and a vibrant, supportive community.

This month, we’re delighted to highlight three members of our team who have thrived through these in-house development opportunities.

Mrs Lizzie Broyd – Housemistress (AGN), Teacher of PE

Lizzie joined Downe House in 2004 as a PE teacher and progressed to Housemistress of AGN. Along the way, she held roles as Head of Hockey, Head of Department, and Assistant Director of Sport.

I’ve been really lucky to work in two great teams. Lydia Rayne in PE challenged and inspired me, and the Upper School House Team has supported me as I moved into pastoral care. It was a role I had aspired to back in my interview in 2004, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.

Lizzie completed the in-house Middle Leaders course, which gave her confidence to take on new responsibilities and step outside her comfort zone. Alongside ongoing CPD to refresh teaching skills and enhance pastoral care, she has been able to develop as both a leader and mentor.

Advice for new staff: get involved in all areas of school life, say yes to opportunities even outside your comfort zone, and find a good work/life balance. Downe House life is busy but incredibly rewarding.

Lizzie’s proudest moments include becoming a Housemistress and celebrating achievements with her teams, such as the 1st XI Hockey team qualifying for Regionals after defeating Wellington College in the County Tournament.

Mr Josh Goodall – Head of Racquet Sports

Josh joined Downe House shortly after retiring from a professional tennis career. Starting as a part-time tennis coach, he gradually took on more responsibility, progressing to Head of Racquet Sports, overseeing tennis, squash, badminton, and pickleball, and managing a team of four coaches.

One of the most challenging parts of my role is managing a team with different personalities, each brilliant in their own way. Attending several CPD courses has helped me develop the skills to lead effectively. It’s also invaluable to attend teaching-focused sessions, as it helps me balance coaching and PE lessons.

Josh enjoys seeing students of all levels progress, from complete beginners to advanced players, and he particularly values events that build community spirit. A standout moment for him was the family tennis tournament last summer, which blended social and competitive elements perfectly.

Feel confident reaching out to anyone within the staff, everyone is approachable and willing to help you achieve your goals. The School values individuality, so there’s no need to always follow a rigid textbook approach.

Josh’s expertise and enthusiasm for tennis are also showcased in the Downe House podcast. In the episode “Tennis at Downe House,” host Simon Jones speaks with Josh and Upper Sixth pupils Cindy and India about the sport’s popularity at the School. Around two-thirds of students participate in tennis throughout the year, and Josh shares insights into coaching strategies, student progression, and fostering a love of the game in players at all levels.

Miss Emma Stonebridge – Assistant Housemistress (AGS), Teacher of Learning Skills

Emma, a Downe House alumna, returned to the School in 2020 as Assistant Housemistress. She now teaches Learning Skills and Latin, heads up the Anti-Bullying Committee, and acts as an academic tutor.

Coming back has been such a pleasure. No one day has been the same since starting back, and seeing students grow is something you can’t beat. Being part of multiple departments has allowed me to gain perspectives from across the School and be involved in many aspects of students’ lives.

Emma has taken full advantage of in-house development opportunities and external CPD, completing a Level 5 Diploma in Teaching Learners with SpLDs, a Master’s in Psychology (conversion), Mental Health First Aid, Lifesaving Qualification, and the Aspiring Middle Leaders Programme. She also continues to explore new areas, including Lego Therapy.

My advice for anyone starting their career here: get involved in House as much as possible. The support across departments and leadership has been incredible in helping me grow and achieve my goals.

Her journey shows how combining pastoral responsibilities with teaching allows staff to develop holistically, enhancing their skills in multiple areas while making a real difference to students’ lives.

Investing in Our People

At Downe House, we are committed to nurturing talent from within. Through structured in-house programmes, bespoke mentoring, and opportunities for leadership, our staff gain the confidence, skills, and support they need to thrive. From coaching on the sports field to guiding students in classrooms and Houses, every member of our team contributes to the growth, wellbeing, and success of our community.

By celebrating these journeys, we hope to showcase the breadth of opportunity available at Downe House and inspire current and future staff to take full advantage of our in-house development initiatives.