Rob Harrison is the Housemaster of Tradescant House and teaches Spanish, French and Life Matters. He joined King's in 2017.

Tell me a little bit about your background before King’s.

Having attended Tonbridge School as a boy I knew what I was getting myself in for before joining King's and it has been nice to work in a similar environment as the one I enjoyed so much as a boy. After school I attended York University to study Spanish and French, which involved me lecturing at a university in Argentina and teaching in a primary school in the Alps in France. I then moved straight into teaching working at Tonbridge Girls' Grammar School for two years before moving to Canterbury.

What do you do when you’re not at work?

When not working I spend most of my time playing sport, seeing family and friends and walking my dog. Whilst in Argentina I started playing Padel and I loved it! I joined a club in London when I returned and have since kept playing at various different clubs. Equally I am a huge Crystal Palace fan and indeed my dog is named after Wilfred Zaha! My friends and family are largely based around the South East so free time is also dedicated to seeing them, especially my 7 nephews and nieces.

Why did you want to become a housemaster?

I think I wanted to be a Housemaster as that's where I think you get to experience all of King's the most! From supporting boys in sport and music to attending plays at the Malthouse, as well as encouraging their other passions, you genuinely feel at like you're at the heart of the school making a difference on a daily basis. Similarly, no day is ever the same!

What is the best thing about being housemaster of Tradescant House?

That is a difficult question as there is so much to choose from! I think it is probably just the daily interactions with the boys. Making jokes, having jokes made at my expense, picking them up when they're low, encouraging them when they're flying high and being there for them when they need someone. Seeing the difference you can make is special and really makes it all worth while.

Finally, what is your favourite event/fixture in the school calendar?

Given that we won House Football this year for the first time in a very long time, it would be that for this year! But I think more generally it has to be House Song and Cross Country. Seeing all the King's community out in force cheering each other on and working together to achieve such high standards is truly inspiring.