Every staffroom is unique. Some schools go for the battered but comfortable look, while others stick with minimalist chic. But whichever school you find yourself in, there are two things you can always rely on - a plentiful supply of coffee and the presence of these five teacher stereotypes:
 

1. The activist
   The head has just announced a reduction in PPA time, but you’re not worried. You know that your school’s answer to Fred Jarvis will be on the case faster than you can say “workplace dispute”. Guaranteed to bring a bit of controversy to any staff meeting, this teacher type has considered confrontation down to a fine art.
   
   
   
   
    
2. The gossip
   In the same way that a pig can sniff out a truffle, this teacher type is an expert at sniffing out and extracting information from unsuspecting colleagues. They are siren-like in their ability to make you feel at ease, while probing for your deepest, darkest secrets. Nobody is safe. Not even the students.
   
   
   
   
    
3. The old-timer
   Having been teaching since time immemorial, this teacher type has quite literally seen it all before. Every new initiative is something they’ve already done, just rehashed and under a different name: “Restorative practice? In my day, we called it apologising!” Too many years in education may have worn them down, but they’ve always got the energy for an impromptu rant.
   
   
   
   
    
4. The eternal optimist
   While irritating to some, the positivity and passion of this teacher type is SLT’s dream. A new CPD scheme? They’re up for it. Volunteers needed for the Year 7 disco? They’ll be on the decks. Duke of Edinburgh weekend in a storm? They’re already packing their tent. If you ask them nicely, they may even write your reports for you.
   
   
   
   
    
5. The jock
   Whether they’re into park runs, military fitness, Zumba or all three, this teacher type is into exercise in a big way. If they’re not sweating, they’re not happy. Don’t even get them started on food. Likely to only consume raw vegetables in blended form, they’re the one giving you that disapproving look as you reach for your fourth biscuit of the day.
   
   
   

Chris Powell was talking to Nicola Davison. He is a geography teacher and ITT lead professional at Parmiter’s School in Hertfordshire