Gryffindor Head of House
Gryffindor got a new Head of House this term and almost everyone in the WHOLE school likes Charms class, so we were super lucky that the Charms professor wanted to be our Head of House! Most Gryffindors were really happy to welcome Professor Marchand to our House, and the few who weren’t happy at first may have been cheered up A LOT by the cool pool party he let us have in the common room after the start of term feast. I was lucky enough to have sat down with Professor Marchand to see how his first term as Head of Gryffindor House went.
1.Good morning, Professor sir! Thanks for answering a few questions today. I guess my first question is: how did you feel when you first knew you got the Head of House job?
You're very welcome, Miss Sparkes; it's my pleasure. Oh, goodness. That was... a lot of emotions. I think I was shocked more than anything else. There were a lot of other professors who deserved the Head of House position, and I didn't think Headmistress Hawthorne had that much confidence in me. Then there was the worry that the Gryffindors wouldn't accept me as their Head of House, but there was also some excitement there too and an eagerness to help these kids any way I can.
2. What was your favorite memory ever with Gryffindor kids this term?
Definitely the end-of-term feast! Everyone worked so hard this term to lead Gryffindor to a House Cup victory. It was a well-deserved moment of celebration, and I was honored to be a part of it.
3.I bet being a Head of House is REALLY difficult. How did you deal with the hard parts of the job?
Loud angry rock music and lots of chocolate helps! Haha. But, seriously, I deal with the challenging parts of the job the same way I deal with any other challenge, by writing songs. I'd be an emotional wreck if I couldn't channel everything into my songs... well, more of a wreck than I already am anyway! It's how I've always dealt with negative feelings. That and spending time with my cat, Phantom. She never fails to make me laugh, and there's just something comforting about the unconditional love of an animal.
4.What did you think about the IMPS tournament? And and, how did you think the Gryffindor champions did in their challenges?
I'm so proud of Dora and Levi! I knew they'd rise to the occasion, but they surpassed even my expectations. The strength and courage they showed is just amazing! I'm glad they and the other IMPS competitors got the chance to show off their skills and that one of them got a scholarship, and I'm especially relieved that no one died in the competition - that was my greatest fear going into this thing, that it would turn out like the 1994 Triwizard Tournament!
I'd be lying if I said I didn't have reservations, though. Some of the things those kids were subjected to, that third challenge in particular, were inexcusable! Seeing their reactions to their loved ones freezing in cages isn't something I'll soon forget, and I couldn't help but think how I'd feel if it were my loved one in that cage. Yes, I know it was for a competition. I know there were precautions taken, but that doesn't make it any more forgivable. As far as I'm concerned, there are some things you just don't do to people, and that was one of them!
5. What sort of fun things or parties or events are you planning for Gryffindor for next term?
Well, there's the start-of-term party that we have every year. That's always fun. I don't want to give too much away just yet, but I've been toying with the idea of an end-of-term party, as well as a few smaller activities in the common room throughout the year. I hope these smaller parties will help the Gryffindors get to know each other better and give them the chance to voice any ideas or concerns they have. I want them to know they can come to me for anything.
1.Good morning, Professor sir! Thanks for answering a few questions today. I guess my first question is: how did you feel when you first knew you got the Head of House job?
You're very welcome, Miss Sparkes; it's my pleasure. Oh, goodness. That was... a lot of emotions. I think I was shocked more than anything else. There were a lot of other professors who deserved the Head of House position, and I didn't think Headmistress Hawthorne had that much confidence in me. Then there was the worry that the Gryffindors wouldn't accept me as their Head of House, but there was also some excitement there too and an eagerness to help these kids any way I can.
2. What was your favorite memory ever with Gryffindor kids this term?
Definitely the end-of-term feast! Everyone worked so hard this term to lead Gryffindor to a House Cup victory. It was a well-deserved moment of celebration, and I was honored to be a part of it.
3.I bet being a Head of House is REALLY difficult. How did you deal with the hard parts of the job?
Loud angry rock music and lots of chocolate helps! Haha. But, seriously, I deal with the challenging parts of the job the same way I deal with any other challenge, by writing songs. I'd be an emotional wreck if I couldn't channel everything into my songs... well, more of a wreck than I already am anyway! It's how I've always dealt with negative feelings. That and spending time with my cat, Phantom. She never fails to make me laugh, and there's just something comforting about the unconditional love of an animal.
4.What did you think about the IMPS tournament? And and, how did you think the Gryffindor champions did in their challenges?
I'm so proud of Dora and Levi! I knew they'd rise to the occasion, but they surpassed even my expectations. The strength and courage they showed is just amazing! I'm glad they and the other IMPS competitors got the chance to show off their skills and that one of them got a scholarship, and I'm especially relieved that no one died in the competition - that was my greatest fear going into this thing, that it would turn out like the 1994 Triwizard Tournament!
I'd be lying if I said I didn't have reservations, though. Some of the things those kids were subjected to, that third challenge in particular, were inexcusable! Seeing their reactions to their loved ones freezing in cages isn't something I'll soon forget, and I couldn't help but think how I'd feel if it were my loved one in that cage. Yes, I know it was for a competition. I know there were precautions taken, but that doesn't make it any more forgivable. As far as I'm concerned, there are some things you just don't do to people, and that was one of them!
5. What sort of fun things or parties or events are you planning for Gryffindor for next term?
Well, there's the start-of-term party that we have every year. That's always fun. I don't want to give too much away just yet, but I've been toying with the idea of an end-of-term party, as well as a few smaller activities in the common room throughout the year. I hope these smaller parties will help the Gryffindors get to know each other better and give them the chance to voice any ideas or concerns they have. I want them to know they can come to me for anything.
Gryffindor Prefects
From my personal interaction with her, Noelle Summers is one of a kind. She sets a good example to the youngsters, motivates her peers and basically helpful to everyone -- qualities that have enabled her to become an extremely successful prefect. She's very ambitious too, training for the past few years to become an animagi and looking to achieve her goal next year. The Gryffindor prefect was lovely enough to take some time out to answer a few questions for us.
1. What have you learnt, as a person, from being a prefect for two consecutive terms?
I've learned to grow in myself. That it takes confidence to do the job. Confidence is key
2. The advice that you would like to give to all the younger kids who aspire to take on the role of a leader?
You can do it. Keep your chin up, raise your head proudly, and you can do anything you set your mind to. You'll be surprised that your limitation are all in your head.
3. What did you think of all the staff changes that happened this term?
Changes happen every year. There is nothing you can really do about it but accept and embrace it. Make the most of the changes.
4. Now that you’re going to be starting your final year at Hogwarts, what are your expectations? What do you most look forward to?
I look must forward to being able to transform this year as an animagi. I've been training for the last three years and I can't wait to see what I transform into. I expect this year to be a lot of hard work. I also expect my head to see that finish line up ahead and want to start slacking off, but I know I can't. NEWTs are this year too.
5. What are your thoughts on IMPS? And were you a little disappointed that your name wasn’t called out?
I loved the IMPS challenges. You could tell a lot of effort was put into it. I did get on my edge about some of the things, but there are always professors around. I have full confidence in Professor Hirsch to stop anything. I wasn't disappointed because I didn't sign up. I had too much on my plate to deal with. Although, I wish I had because those challenges are eye opening and push you to your limits from what I saw.
6. Which professor do you look up to the most? Who has been a source of inspiration for you?
Professor Hirsch has been my rock since second term. When I came back to school that term, it was about the middle of the term. I was only a shadow of the person I am today. He helped me to break me from my fears and gave me confidence every step of the way. I definitely owe him a lot.
7. Tell me something about your co-prefect, Ace. Why do you two work well together?
Ace is like the peanut butter to my jelly. Hes the fun loveable guy everyone enjoys, full of jokes. And Im kinda not as bubbly as him so our personalities go well with each other. He feels more like Ive known him forever.
8. What is the most valuable lesson that you’ve learnt at Hogwarts so far that would help you in the years to come?
You can overcome anything. You just have to get out of your head. You HAVE to quit worrying about what others think. It does matter what they say. You can show them otherwise. Because you are worth it.
9. Which Gryffindor trait do you most identify with?
Umm... I'm not sure. Sometimes I wonder if I was placed in the wrong house. I am definitely not like my little brother who is so Gryffindor in everything. But I can be hot-headed. Also I can be daring.
10. Finally.. well, summer is just around the corner! Any plans?
I am starting an internship with the Ministry! I'll be in the auror group. I've very excited about it. Dreams are happening! Hopefully I'll get to meet Alexa Cambridge. She was the auror that pulled me from the dungeon. She's one of my heroes. Plus I plan on spending as much time as possible with Noah, Olly, and Ava.
1. What have you learnt, as a person, from being a prefect for two consecutive terms?
I've learned to grow in myself. That it takes confidence to do the job. Confidence is key
2. The advice that you would like to give to all the younger kids who aspire to take on the role of a leader?
You can do it. Keep your chin up, raise your head proudly, and you can do anything you set your mind to. You'll be surprised that your limitation are all in your head.
3. What did you think of all the staff changes that happened this term?
Changes happen every year. There is nothing you can really do about it but accept and embrace it. Make the most of the changes.
4. Now that you’re going to be starting your final year at Hogwarts, what are your expectations? What do you most look forward to?
I look must forward to being able to transform this year as an animagi. I've been training for the last three years and I can't wait to see what I transform into. I expect this year to be a lot of hard work. I also expect my head to see that finish line up ahead and want to start slacking off, but I know I can't. NEWTs are this year too.
5. What are your thoughts on IMPS? And were you a little disappointed that your name wasn’t called out?
I loved the IMPS challenges. You could tell a lot of effort was put into it. I did get on my edge about some of the things, but there are always professors around. I have full confidence in Professor Hirsch to stop anything. I wasn't disappointed because I didn't sign up. I had too much on my plate to deal with. Although, I wish I had because those challenges are eye opening and push you to your limits from what I saw.
6. Which professor do you look up to the most? Who has been a source of inspiration for you?
Professor Hirsch has been my rock since second term. When I came back to school that term, it was about the middle of the term. I was only a shadow of the person I am today. He helped me to break me from my fears and gave me confidence every step of the way. I definitely owe him a lot.
7. Tell me something about your co-prefect, Ace. Why do you two work well together?
Ace is like the peanut butter to my jelly. Hes the fun loveable guy everyone enjoys, full of jokes. And Im kinda not as bubbly as him so our personalities go well with each other. He feels more like Ive known him forever.
8. What is the most valuable lesson that you’ve learnt at Hogwarts so far that would help you in the years to come?
You can overcome anything. You just have to get out of your head. You HAVE to quit worrying about what others think. It does matter what they say. You can show them otherwise. Because you are worth it.
9. Which Gryffindor trait do you most identify with?
Umm... I'm not sure. Sometimes I wonder if I was placed in the wrong house. I am definitely not like my little brother who is so Gryffindor in everything. But I can be hot-headed. Also I can be daring.
10. Finally.. well, summer is just around the corner! Any plans?
I am starting an internship with the Ministry! I'll be in the auror group. I've very excited about it. Dreams are happening! Hopefully I'll get to meet Alexa Cambridge. She was the auror that pulled me from the dungeon. She's one of my heroes. Plus I plan on spending as much time as possible with Noah, Olly, and Ava.
Ace is one of those people that can get along with anyone, really. Having an ever-present smile on his face and a tendency to look out for others, he has proven himself to be a very successful leader as well. Not to mention the fact that he's an extremely talented musician too! From playing the piano to the drums and the guitar, combined with a gifted voice, he can do it all. Luckily for us, he was able to take out a bit of his time to answer a few questions for us.
1. What have you learnt, as a person, from being a prefect for two consecutive terms?
Prioritization and Organization. There's a lot going on being Prefect, taking care of fellow Lions and then having to handle my own stuff too. It’s a challenge. But its also an honor, cant beat that feeling nope.
2. The advice that you would like to give to all the younger kids who aspire to take on the role of a leader?
I always felt theres a big difference between being a leader and being a boss. To some people its interchangeable-- its not. Being a leader means striding the delicate balance between someone people can look up to and someone people can relate to or communicate with like an equal. There should not be any gap between them, unlike what a "boss" can be, which emphasizes that gap, that superiority of one or the inferiority of others. That is not my leadership style at all. There's an old saying-- with great power comes great responsibility. A lot of people with power forget the responsibility part, and that’s where the next old saying comes up-- absolute power corrupts absolutely.And well.... nobody wants to be called corrupt innit?
3. What did you think of all the staff changes that happened this term?
Well... it never gets easy does it, Professors leaving? The shock and sadness of mentors no longer being there when you hoped to re-establish those bonds when you return to Hogwarts-- yeah its tough trying to take that in stride, I will readily admit that. But then Dad and Mum always tell me that the only thing constant is change. I try to keep that in the back of my mind always, kinda helps dealing with the feelings yknow?
4. What are your thoughts on IMPS? And were you a little disappointed that your name wasn’t called out?
I think the IMPS were super exciting and interesting! That’s the best kind of adventure yknow? And yeah not gonna deny it, I was hoping to rep the Lions and all of Hogwarts. But hey they selected some really good candidates for Gryffindor yknow. I'm super proud of them!
5. Which professor do you look up to the most? Who has been a source of inspiration for you?
Awww maaaan..... Pass!
Listen a lot of Professors have inspired me, and to connect from your previous question, some of them have already left Hogwarts, but some are still here. There isnt that one Professor I would credit everything to because all Hogwarts Professors-- correction, all of Hogwarts Faculty,--past and present, have made such an impression on me and I carry those to this day.
6. Tell me something about your co-prefect, Noelle. Why do you two work well together?
Chemistry? I dunno, we just do. I guess its because I have my strengths and she has her strengths and together we cover most if not all the bases yknow?
7. What is the most valuable lesson that you’ve learnt at Hogwarts so far that would help you in the the years to come?
I gotta give a shout out to Professor Hirsch for this-- he helped me harness and control my patronus. It got pretty crazy for a bit at the beginning yknow, cuz its an Abraxan and gosh trying to control it once I've generated it-- yikes! But yeah he didn’t give up on me, gave me lots of really helpful advice which also helps me with my other spellwork so yeah, definitely something I'm forever thankful for.
8. Which Gryffindor trait do you most identify with?
The trait for attracting trouble? 'Nerve' I suppose, I mean I notice a lot of Hogwartians hold back at certain situations and I'm like 'Full Speed Ahead!'
9. I’ve heard that you’re a musician! What instrument do you play? Do you sing as well?
Ahaha well I love music, I dunno if that qualifies me as like a "real" musician, but yeah music is a big thing in my family. I learned to play the piano first-- cuz yknow parents, plus my grandpa was a classical composer and conductor. Then I got my folks to sign me up for drum lessons and then guitar. I know how to play the kazoo-- I learned that on my own. And theres also my voice-- that’s an instrument too right? Yeah you could say I can sing a bit.
10. Finally.. well, summer is just around the corner! Any plans?
I got some out of town trips lined up. Been also thinking of dropping by that Paradise shop at Diagon Alley for some.... inspirational designs yknow.
1. What have you learnt, as a person, from being a prefect for two consecutive terms?
Prioritization and Organization. There's a lot going on being Prefect, taking care of fellow Lions and then having to handle my own stuff too. It’s a challenge. But its also an honor, cant beat that feeling nope.
2. The advice that you would like to give to all the younger kids who aspire to take on the role of a leader?
I always felt theres a big difference between being a leader and being a boss. To some people its interchangeable-- its not. Being a leader means striding the delicate balance between someone people can look up to and someone people can relate to or communicate with like an equal. There should not be any gap between them, unlike what a "boss" can be, which emphasizes that gap, that superiority of one or the inferiority of others. That is not my leadership style at all. There's an old saying-- with great power comes great responsibility. A lot of people with power forget the responsibility part, and that’s where the next old saying comes up-- absolute power corrupts absolutely.And well.... nobody wants to be called corrupt innit?
3. What did you think of all the staff changes that happened this term?
Well... it never gets easy does it, Professors leaving? The shock and sadness of mentors no longer being there when you hoped to re-establish those bonds when you return to Hogwarts-- yeah its tough trying to take that in stride, I will readily admit that. But then Dad and Mum always tell me that the only thing constant is change. I try to keep that in the back of my mind always, kinda helps dealing with the feelings yknow?
4. What are your thoughts on IMPS? And were you a little disappointed that your name wasn’t called out?
I think the IMPS were super exciting and interesting! That’s the best kind of adventure yknow? And yeah not gonna deny it, I was hoping to rep the Lions and all of Hogwarts. But hey they selected some really good candidates for Gryffindor yknow. I'm super proud of them!
5. Which professor do you look up to the most? Who has been a source of inspiration for you?
Awww maaaan..... Pass!
Listen a lot of Professors have inspired me, and to connect from your previous question, some of them have already left Hogwarts, but some are still here. There isnt that one Professor I would credit everything to because all Hogwarts Professors-- correction, all of Hogwarts Faculty,--past and present, have made such an impression on me and I carry those to this day.
6. Tell me something about your co-prefect, Noelle. Why do you two work well together?
Chemistry? I dunno, we just do. I guess its because I have my strengths and she has her strengths and together we cover most if not all the bases yknow?
7. What is the most valuable lesson that you’ve learnt at Hogwarts so far that would help you in the the years to come?
I gotta give a shout out to Professor Hirsch for this-- he helped me harness and control my patronus. It got pretty crazy for a bit at the beginning yknow, cuz its an Abraxan and gosh trying to control it once I've generated it-- yikes! But yeah he didn’t give up on me, gave me lots of really helpful advice which also helps me with my other spellwork so yeah, definitely something I'm forever thankful for.
8. Which Gryffindor trait do you most identify with?
The trait for attracting trouble? 'Nerve' I suppose, I mean I notice a lot of Hogwartians hold back at certain situations and I'm like 'Full Speed Ahead!'
9. I’ve heard that you’re a musician! What instrument do you play? Do you sing as well?
Ahaha well I love music, I dunno if that qualifies me as like a "real" musician, but yeah music is a big thing in my family. I learned to play the piano first-- cuz yknow parents, plus my grandpa was a classical composer and conductor. Then I got my folks to sign me up for drum lessons and then guitar. I know how to play the kazoo-- I learned that on my own. And theres also my voice-- that’s an instrument too right? Yeah you could say I can sing a bit.
10. Finally.. well, summer is just around the corner! Any plans?
I got some out of town trips lined up. Been also thinking of dropping by that Paradise shop at Diagon Alley for some.... inspirational designs yknow.