Oakham School Welcomes New Senior Deputy Head

As we welcome our new Senior Deputy Head Qin (pronounced ‘kin’) Wiseman to the Oakham School community, we talk to him about his love of education, boarding, and all things sport.

 

Tell us a little bit about yourself.

First and foremost, I regard myself as a schoolmaster. My role is to help young people on their educational journey, whether in the classroom, on the sports pitch or in House. Over the years I have had the pleasure of being a Boarding Housemaster, a Head of Geography, a Sports Coach, Master in Charge of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme, and latterly Deputy Head (Pastoral) and Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Having been to boarding school myself, I have experienced first-hand the huge benefits that a boarding environment can bring to boarders and day pupils – the sense of a home from home, the strong friendships that you make and the skills you develop as an individual.

I also love all sports, particularly rugby, hockey, and cricket. I am willing try my hand at most sports, the only exception being skeleton – I don’t think I could cope with the downhill speed!

What attracted you to this role?

I have always admired Oakham School from afar for the fantastic all-round education it offers boys and girls. I also know the School well from my role as sports coach – indeed several times my teams have ended up on the wrong side of an encounter with Oakham!

When the job of Senior Deputy Head came up, I jumped at the chance to join this tight-knit boarding and day community.

Who inspires you?

From an educational perspective, it’s the pupils: seeing them grow and develop. When past pupils get in touch to say thank you and knowing that I have made a difference to that person’s life, that’s the most inspirational thing of all.

On a personal level, my wife inspires me. Her passion for equality in women’s sport (Cassie is Partnership Manager for SportsAid) is truly amazing.

 

What are your impressions of Oakham so far?

Oakham is such a warm, vibrant and welcoming place. Everyone is so friendly. I’m really enjoying getting to know the rhythms and routines of the School and working out how I can support and nurture everyone.

What are you most looking forward to experiencing at Oakham?

I am looking forward to getting to know the staff, pupils and parents and for them to know me. I want to earn everyone’s respect and lead by example. I’m not a careerist – I am fully committed to being here at Oakham and I want to be the best possible Senior Deputy Head I can be.

What are your plans as Senior Deputy Head?

I want to be the calm and steady hand on the tiller, allowing everyone to do their jobs to their full capacity. I am looking forward to helping others – pupils and staff – to flourish. I will be there to adapt, where necessary, and to listen.

One of my first jobs will be to appoint next year’s Decem Prefects and I look forward to working with them to lead the School.