Staff Spotlight: Joanne Tordoir

The Staff Spotlight series was introduced to both recognise the hard work of our staff who go above and beyond throughout the year, as well as introduce them to the wider school community, outside of their respective stream or department.

Each issue of Le Bulletin will shine a light on our talented and supportive staff from across the entire school (Leadership, Early Years, Primary, Secondary, French Stream, International Stream, Administration) with some “fun facts” and a Q&A that will allow the community to get to know them on a more personal level.

In this issue, we have Ms Joanne Tordoir.

Fun Facts

Job Title: English Teacher
Department: International Stream
Campus: Blue Pool Road
Subjects taught: English and Drama
Nationality: British
Languages Spoken: English

Q&A

1. How long have you worked at FIS?

This is my second year at FIS and seventh overall in Hong Kong.

2. In a few words, what’s the most rewarding thing about working at FIS?

I love the variety that happens week to week at FIS; in just April alone I’ve celebrated final days with our year 13 students, volunteered at production rehearsals and jetted off to Borneo on a CAS trip. Yet one this is consistent – our students – their curiosity, energy and enthusiasm is the best thing about working at FIS.

3. What is the best thing that has happened to you this year (at FIS)?

I’ve just returned from Borneo and it was a pleasure seeing our students tackle new experiences and challenges outside of the classroom. From abseiling and rafting to renovating a community centre they took it all in their stride with smiles on their faces.

4. What hobbies / interests do you have?

I enjoy training and dance classes as well as reading, going to the theatre and socialising.

5. Best thing about living in Hong Kong?

The best thing about living in Hong Kong is the freedom it allows to experience different cultures with my young family; the different nationalities that make up our friendship groups are amazing.

6. Favourite type of food or cuisine?

I love Thai, Indian and Lebanese food – not all at once of course – and I’d pick a cheese board over a desert on most days.

7. Favourite book or movie?

My favourite movie is Billy Elliot – it is set near my home town so the accent makes me feel nostalgic. The storyline involves a young boy breaking down stereotypes to become a ballerina, set against the backdrop of the miner’s strike in the North of England in the mid 1980s.

As an English Teacher I could talk for a long time about favourite books – so I’ll narrow it down to a less well known children’s book that sticks out in my memory; ‘Goodnight Mister Tom’ by Michelle Magorian is a beautiful story of parental love in unconventional circumstances.

8. If you could pick any superpower, what would it be and why?

If I could have any superpower it would be teleportation – I love living in Hong Kong, but I would love to visit my family in England more often.

Trevor WILCOX
Senior Creative Marketing Manager