The People Behind Ipswich High School – Mrs Suzanne Hockley

At Ipswich High School, each week we will focus on celebrating one member of our community. This initiative will highlight the diverse contributions of both teaching and support staff, offering students, parents and colleagues a deeper appreciation for the people who make the school flourish. This week, we learn more about Mrs Suzanne Hockley, who is our Head of Maths and Head of Year 9 at Ipswich High School.
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN AT IHS?
Since September 2023.
WHAT INSPIRED YOU TO JOIN THE IHS COMMUNITY?
The supportive yet aspirational ethos of the school, the caring family community, wonderful positive staff who want the best from everyone, and who go above and beyond to support every individual. Also, the wonderful kind, resilient, and hard working pupils and of course the beautiful setting.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT WORKING AT IHS?
Passionate staff who truly care about the pupils and each other, the friendly, positive pupils who always say good morning and embrace all their learning challenges, the wonderful facilities, the feeling of community and high standards, and of course the lunches! I particularly enjoy being on lunch duty as I get to speak to so many pupils about their day.
TELL US ABOUT A PROFESSIONAL SUCCESS STORY THAT YOU’RE PROUD OF?
Winning the Pearson Education School of the Year award, such a proud, emotional evening.
WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE MEMORY FROM WORKING AT IHS?
So many to choose from: the day I met my Year 11 Year group last year and/or their results day in the summer seeing all their hard work had paid off; the Year 11 dinner, meeting IHS parents for the first time; the Prom after exams, such a glamourous celebration! Meeting my wonderful Year 9 year group in September.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY DOING OUTSIDE OF WORK?
Reading and going on holiday somewhere sunny, seeing my friends and family, and wearing my slippers!
WHAT IS A DREAM THAT YOU WANT TO MAKE COME TRUE ONE DAY?
For all our pupils to be happy and successful in their careers.
WHAT ARE YOU MOST LOOKING FORWARD TO AT IHS?
The journey the whole school is on with our core values and shared aspirations for the future, developing our community and curriculum, while ensuring everyone is Inspired, Happy and Successful.
WISE WORDS: IS THERE A QUOTE OR SAYING YOU LIVE YOUR LIFE BY?
Regarding Maths – don’t practice until you get it right, practice until you don’t get it wrong!
YOUR FAVOURITE SUBJECT AT SCHOOL:
Maths (obviously!) but also DT.
WHAT TYPE OF BOOKS/MOVIES DO YOU ENJOY?
Happy stories set somewhere sunny.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE LUNCH AT IHS?
Fish and chips with curry sauce.














