Who has been your biggest influence?
My father had an amazing work ethic. He probably worked too hard but he had real pride in his work, which has rubbed off on me.
What has been your career high so far?
Taking on the role of Anne Boleyn’s mother at a joust last October and seeing friends in the audience and being confused momentarily as to what they were doing in my Tudor life. The joy of catching the wonder in children’s faces as you appear in costume is another high.
What was your worst moment in teaching?
Taking a Year 6 class where one child attempted to put a chair on a table to escape through a window while another hid under a table shouting that someone had looked at him. The rest of the class alternated between encouraging the escapee and taunting the one under the table.
What was your worst field trip experience?
It was a visit to the British Museum with a mother of “generous proportions”. She did not see the low step around a display case containing priceless historic relics and fell into it. The secure glass did not stand a chance.
What is the best advice you have been given?
Consider things carefully before making a decision or taking action and then do not spend time regretting it if things do not work out. This, along with not holding on to unforgiveness or anger, has influenced my life greatly.
Describe the most outrageous thing a colleague has done
I remember watching in amazement as a nun lifted up her long black gown and danced around the classroom.
What would you be if you weren’t a teacher?
I wanted to be an actress and dancer but my father would not allow it.
What do you do on a Friday evening?
When my sons are home it is family evening. They cook, we catch up on news and either play board games or watch a film. When they are away at university, I either go Ceroc (modern jive) dancing or spend it with friends.
Where did you last go on holiday?
We went to Morocco on a three-site trip - mountains, beach and then Marrakech. It was a perfect combination of outdoor activity, culture and relaxation.
Sally McHutchon taught English and drama before joining Past Pleasures as a live costumed interpreter. She works at Hampton Court Palace and the Tower of London.
