Get to know the people behind Edge Grove
What is your name?
Justine Saville
What is your role at Edge Grove?
Currently Drama teacher - prior to which I was a Learning Assistant in the Pre Prep (both maternity cover!)
How long have you been at Edge Grove?
Since September 2020.
What did you do before joining Edge Grove?
Before joining Edge Grove I taught drama/music and musical theatre (singing, tap, jazz dance, acting) at independent stage-schools in London whilst balancing professional auditions and productions alongside. Since graduating from Drama School I have appeared in a number of professional shows including two musical theatre concerts at Cadogan Hall. I also spent my 2019 Christmas period touring around residential homes and care centres in the South-West of England performing in 'Jack and the Beanstalk'. In 2015 I was offered the privilege to perform the part of Anne Frank in a one-woman 60 minute dramatization as part of the National Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration in Liverpool.
Due to the unfortunate shutdown of the industry as a result of Covid-19 my life became all teaching and no performing - however I believe when I am teaching I am just on 'another stage' and love it just as much which I feel very lucky about.
What do you love most about your job?
The list is endless! I feel so grateful during such strange times to have landed at such a wonderfully, high-spirited school like Edge Grove. I get such joy and uplift teaching a subject I am so passionate about whilst getting the opportunity to inspire students to grow both as confident, assured performers and people. I am so excited about directing the Year 6 and Year 8 play, to get creative and and to watch the terms unfold now we're back at school in the theatre!
What do you love most about Edge Grove?
Despite only working at Edge Grove during a global pandemic... I can still feel the strong sense of community within the school. I went to a small, communal school in my hometown and Edge Grove often reminds me of that. Everyone is so friendly, encouraging and supportive. The opportunities presented are incredible and I cannot wait to hopefully make more wonderful school memories when this crazy period is over and get to know the Prep school students and faculty as well as I got to know the Pre Prep.
Who is your favourite colleague and why?
Ooh tough one! I cannot deny that the Pre Prep team were amazing to work alongside during my first term and a half at Edge Grove. I loved being a part of their 'bubble'... pardon the pun! The kindness, support and care was so appreciated but now I guess it would be rude to not say the Creative Arts team who certainly share my profound love of the arts. ;)
If you could live anywhere, where would it be?
Well as I am from and grew up in Liverpool my dream was to always live in London. I have family down here so often visited especially for the Jewish Festivals. I loved the bright lights, big city feel from such a young age so I guess my dream has come true! I have never visited NYC (yet!) so that is definitely on the bucket list when restrictions are lifted!...
What is your biggest fear? Being underprepared! I am certainly a planner and write everything down to ensure nothing will be forgotten however I do love this quote "Start by doing what's necessary, then do what's possible, and suddenly... you're doing the impossible". Nothing can beat aspects of spontaneity and this crazy 12 months has certainly taught me that it's vital to live in the present and relish in it. What did you want to be when you were little?
An actress/singer and a teacher so I think it has all worked out pretty well! My late Grandma was an English and Drama teacher before becoming a Headteacher. I often remember conversations with her regarding our mutual love for the arts and teaching. She inspired me and so many students. I hope I am making her proud!