Chronicle 687

14 ST EDWARD’S CHRONICLE

Vienna Osborne-Ricketts You joined us as Director of Safeguarding in the Autumn Term. Tell us a bit about your career so far. I have a Masters in Social Work and started my career working for Birmingham City Council and then Oxfordshire County Council as a Child Protection Social Worker. My career then took me into Law Enforcement where I worked as a Child Protection Advisor for the National Crime Agency in the Child Exploitation Online Protection (CEOP) command. In more recent years I have worked in the professional football industry for the Football Association as a Safeguarding Case Officer, supporting safeguarding investigations and then for two Premier League football clubs as the Safeguarding Manager. Tell us a bit more about the safeguarding culture at St Edward’s? There is a such a positive safeguarding culture at the School and staff and pupils understand that safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility. The School promotes a speak-up culture in relation to safeguarding. The safety and wellbeing of all pupils is our highest priority and no concern is considered too small. There is an open culture in which raising concerns is the normal and right thing to do. What do you enjoy about working at St Edward’s? I really enjoy when pupils just pop into the Beehive (my office in the Quad) to have a catch up. Working with pupils at the School is incredibly rewarding – I am passionate about teaching young people to recognise their own strengths and capabilities and building their self-belief and confidence. Small moments of guidance, support and encouragement can shape individuals’ paths for years and at St Edward’s I get a chance to be a part of that which is extremely fulfilling. Do you have a favourite place in Oxford? It is hard to try and pick a favourite place but, having grown up in Oxford, I have very fond memories of Shotover Country Park, going on bike rides, punting on the river and the pedalos at Hinksey Park. Do you have a favourite quote or piece of advice? ‘Control the controllables’ – it’s easy to become overwhelmed by things we cannot control but focusing on what we, as individuals, are able to change can be empowering. What are three things you can’t live without? Music, sleep and pizza. Which book do you think everyone should read? The Secret by Rhonda Byrne. I like the message that by maintaining a positive mindset, individuals can attract positive experiences.