Staff Spotlight: Musetta Ripamonti

Musetta Ripamonti was been with Villiers Park for over 10 years as a mentor and coach and is currently working on an ambitious project to empower children in care. Read more about Musetta's journey with Villier's Park below. 

How long have you been at Villiers Park and what does your role entail? 

I joined Villiers Park in 2011. I am a Progression Coach and Programmes Support Officer in Hastings and Bexhill. My role is focused on coaching and mentoring teenagers aged 15 to 18, both one to one and in groups . Our coaching model is all about young people mapping their future pathways and learning about all their 'possible selves'. My Programme Support Officer role involves creating course content, doing admin support, project management and programme delivery.

What did you do before coming to Villiers Park? 

I worked for the Excellence Cluster a local educational charity in the behaviour management unit and with gifted and talented children. I also taught English in state schools in Japan for two years, also in China, Paris and language schools in the UK. Before that I worked for The Royal Society. I was responsible for the administration of all scientific exchange groups and delegations between Britain and China.

What is your biggest project at the moment? 

Working on the First Star Scholars Programme. This programme is aimed at supporting and raising aspirations for children and young people growing up in care by offering educational alternatives and experiences to help them realise their potential.

What is the biggest challenge you are currently facing in your role? 

Coordinating the various elements that go towards a First Star webinar taking place and finalising the First Star Leadership Challenge projects which for the first time, have all been planned via online webinars only.  

What is your favourite part about your job? 

When something I’ve dedicated time and thought to comes together as it’s meant to.  How do I know it’s been a success?  I have my internal critic to contend with but positive feedback is always a good indicator.  

What is a book you always will always recommend? 

True Tales of American Life compiled by Paul Auster. 

If you could travel to anywhere in the world where would you go? 

Back to S. E. Asia again. With my children this time around. 

Who are your 2 dream dinner party guests? 

Nikola Tesla and Marilyn Monroe. So many questions....

What would your perfect weekend look like? 

Traditional horse drawn caravan starting in Naples and going South.  Horses driven by Viggo Mortensen!