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News | 03 June 2024

Who is Deborah Potts?

It's time to get to know all the teachers and staff who will meet the students at IES Norrtälje in the autumn! Next up is our School Economist/HR Deborah Potts.

What did you do before you started at IES Norrtälje?
After moving to London at age 20, I worked for lawyers as an executive PA and then as a document production specialist before transferring to the education sector, where I worked as a school business manager at three inner-city primary schools in London.

What will you work with and be responsible for this autumn?
As a School Economist/HR, I will support the principal in overseeing the school's budget and capital expenses, aligning with IES guidelines. I will also support accounting, budget management, and handle HR duties including payroll. In other words, I keep the numbers—and our team—happy and thriving.

What’s the best thing about your job?
The best part is collaborating with an amazing team to build a school from scratch, creating a place where both staff and students can flourish.

What are you most looking forward to when the school has opened?
The smiles on everyone’s faces. There’s nothing more rewarding than spreading positivity and building what I hope will be our best school yet.

Which one is your favourite song right now?
“Fight Song” by Rachel Platten because it empowers me to keep keeping on!

Do you have any pets?
No pets yet, but I’m campaigning hard to adopt a little dog—just need to win over my partner first!

Tell something about yourself not many people know.
I’m the baby of the family with five older siblings—yes, that meant a lot of hand-me-downs!

What was your favourite subject in school?
English Literature because it allowed me to explore creative writing and bring my imagination to life.

Do you have any dreams for the future?
I’m already living my dream in the Swedish countryside, but if I could add a cherry on top, it would be mastering Swedish so well that I could fool a native speaker!

What do you do outside of work?
When I’m not wrestling with Swedish verbs, I love being out in nature, regardless of the season. Whether it’s boating through the archipelago in the warmer months, or up-cycling old treasures in the winter, I’m all about making the most of every moment. Plus, there’s the endless challenge of gardening without a green thumb!