Headmaster
There’s no denying that Headmaster Mohamed Sahnoun started his Hogwarts career with a bang (or should I say meow?) that lead to an equally exhilarating term. Students were surprised not to see Headmistress Moxley’s presence gracing the staff dias at the start of this term, but the biggest shock of them all came when the new Headmaster transformed from cat to professor right before our eyes. Headmaster Sahnoun joined the Hogwarts faculty through an exchange hosted by the International Confederation of Wizards. From the Uagadou School of Magic, he brought a wealth of worldly knowledge as well as a charming accent to the castle from his very first day! While the students of Ilvermorny enjoyed Professor Moxley’s tutelage, Hogwarts students benefitted from Headmaster Sahnoun’s calm demeanor as a particularly eventful term unfolded.
The Headmaster may hail from the largest Wizarding school in the world, but there’s no way to be truly prepared for the ups and downs of life at Hogwarts. Of course, that's not to say that Headmaster Sahnoun didn’t quickly learn the way into the hearts of the Hogwarts population. That’s right—food. His Mid-Year Feeding Frenzy drew an impressive crowd, creating the perfect opportunity to socialize and exchange ideas across cultures and age-gaps. Even when the event turned somewhat hysterical at the hands of some very questionable brownies, Headmaster Sahnoun kept his cool. His speedy reaction was positively cat-like in its precision as he called on the expert potion master to examine the offending food and procure an antidote in no time at all. With a collected and quick thinker like Headmaster Sahnoun in charge of Hogwarts, no number of nifflers, hags, or even acromantula could cause the school fall apart. His expertise as a leader truly had no boundaries. Headmaster Sahnoun’s admirers now span multiple countries and populations of young wizards, and the students of Hogwarts are so grateful for his guidance this term!
The Headmaster may hail from the largest Wizarding school in the world, but there’s no way to be truly prepared for the ups and downs of life at Hogwarts. Of course, that's not to say that Headmaster Sahnoun didn’t quickly learn the way into the hearts of the Hogwarts population. That’s right—food. His Mid-Year Feeding Frenzy drew an impressive crowd, creating the perfect opportunity to socialize and exchange ideas across cultures and age-gaps. Even when the event turned somewhat hysterical at the hands of some very questionable brownies, Headmaster Sahnoun kept his cool. His speedy reaction was positively cat-like in its precision as he called on the expert potion master to examine the offending food and procure an antidote in no time at all. With a collected and quick thinker like Headmaster Sahnoun in charge of Hogwarts, no number of nifflers, hags, or even acromantula could cause the school fall apart. His expertise as a leader truly had no boundaries. Headmaster Sahnoun’s admirers now span multiple countries and populations of young wizards, and the students of Hogwarts are so grateful for his guidance this term!
Groundskeeper
Mr. McLeod returned to Hogwarts this term, acting as Groundskeeper and Slytherin Head of House. No stranger to keeping a watchful eye, the former snake took to his newest role with ease and managed to keep those cunning Hogwartians out of harm’s way for the entire term. Having no deaths on your watch is certainly something to be proud of, especially at this school. We had the chance to sit down with Mr. M to hear a bit more about his term.
1. You had double responsibilities when you returned to Hogwarts this term. Did you find it easy to connect to the Slytherin students you’d be responsible for looking after?
Of course. Once a Slytherin, always a Slytherin so the connection was easy having been in their shoes before.
2. When you were a student here, what was your favorite spot on the grounds and why?
That treehouse has many fond memories for me, away from classes and seeing the sights with friends. It's not going anywhere under my watch.
3. If you could chat with any witch or wizard from history, dead or alive, who would you pick and why?
Didn't you ever wonder about the secrets to Lucius Malfoy's well-kept hair? Uncovering it would bring a fortune.
4. If you could teach any subject for a day, which would you choose?
Funny, I use to teach Charms to your Professor Hirsch in his student years. So let's go with that.
5. Which magical creature would you say best represents you?
Can't go wrong with a Crup.
6. Which area of the grounds is the hardest to keep up, in your opinion?
The Whomping Willow. The tree certainly tests my fitness.
7. When you were an eleven year old wizard, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A sailor of the sea. That's right.
8. The students at this school just can’t seem to stay away from the forbidden forest. What’s your go-to punishment for those daring trespassers?
Nothing like taking a good chunk of points away. Better than having a certain creature take a chunk out of another Hufflepuff.
9. Working here, you must’ve made some friendships with the other adults in the castle. Do you have any parting words for the members of staff who won’t be returning next term?
It's too bad to see them go, but there are times when moving on is for the best. I wish them luck with their next goal.
10. Last question, Mr. McLeod! Do you have any advice for those Slytherins graduating this term and heading off into the big, wide wizarding world?
Whatever you pursue, if the rewards are worth it in the future, go for it. Otherwise, take what you can get until you know what will.
1. You had double responsibilities when you returned to Hogwarts this term. Did you find it easy to connect to the Slytherin students you’d be responsible for looking after?
Of course. Once a Slytherin, always a Slytherin so the connection was easy having been in their shoes before.
2. When you were a student here, what was your favorite spot on the grounds and why?
That treehouse has many fond memories for me, away from classes and seeing the sights with friends. It's not going anywhere under my watch.
3. If you could chat with any witch or wizard from history, dead or alive, who would you pick and why?
Didn't you ever wonder about the secrets to Lucius Malfoy's well-kept hair? Uncovering it would bring a fortune.
4. If you could teach any subject for a day, which would you choose?
Funny, I use to teach Charms to your Professor Hirsch in his student years. So let's go with that.
5. Which magical creature would you say best represents you?
Can't go wrong with a Crup.
6. Which area of the grounds is the hardest to keep up, in your opinion?
The Whomping Willow. The tree certainly tests my fitness.
7. When you were an eleven year old wizard, what did you want to be when you grew up?
A sailor of the sea. That's right.
8. The students at this school just can’t seem to stay away from the forbidden forest. What’s your go-to punishment for those daring trespassers?
Nothing like taking a good chunk of points away. Better than having a certain creature take a chunk out of another Hufflepuff.
9. Working here, you must’ve made some friendships with the other adults in the castle. Do you have any parting words for the members of staff who won’t be returning next term?
It's too bad to see them go, but there are times when moving on is for the best. I wish them luck with their next goal.
10. Last question, Mr. McLeod! Do you have any advice for those Slytherins graduating this term and heading off into the big, wide wizarding world?
Whatever you pursue, if the rewards are worth it in the future, go for it. Otherwise, take what you can get until you know what will.
Healer
Since 2076, the blonde spitfire known as Healer Cecelia Murdoch and been treating the cuts, bruises, and poisoned of Hogwarts with her spitfire attitude. Known to never eat the food made at Hogwarts unless she supervised it throughout the cooking process due to the history of tainted food at school, several noted that she took on a softer side in recent terms - although never fulling losing her Slytherin attitude. Having gone through acromantula attacks and worse, Cece can't take a simple cold too seriously anymore and dealt with such minor incidents with a passing yawn.
After spending more than a decade as Hogwart’s Healer, she now leaves us for personal reasons. An unnamed source has confirmed this personal reason to be her hatred of all children other than her own. She hates you. Yes you reading this. No, we’re just kidding. Now the mother of two, Healer Murdoch is moving on from Hogwarts to spend more time with family.
After spending more than a decade as Hogwart’s Healer, she now leaves us for personal reasons. An unnamed source has confirmed this personal reason to be her hatred of all children other than her own. She hates you. Yes you reading this. No, we’re just kidding. Now the mother of two, Healer Murdoch is moving on from Hogwarts to spend more time with family.
Librarian
Mr. Kitridge, on top of being an amazing Head of House, has kept the Hogwarts library in tip top shape for years now. Thirteen years, to be precise. To some, that might seem like chump change, but the reality is that this man has become a Hogwarts institution. A MASTER of the TOMES, one might say. And though Mr. Kitridge is bidding us adieu after all this time, we must remember him for the good times he was able to provide, the kindness and friendship with which he treated each student, and joy that was exuded everyday through his work.
1. All I have to say is THIRTEEN YEARS. That is an incredibly long time to be staffed at Hogwarts, given the constant turn over. You obviously hold the secrets to keeping a job as stressful as this one can be. So, out with it, Mr. Kitridge. What has kept you returning to these musty old books (along with your various other titles)?
Has it really been that long? Wow, I guess time flies. Thirteen years is a long time, even if it hasn't felt like it. One secret as to why I come back is that the books never stress. They'll wait for you. And because books have always calmed me, I see the library as a serene sanctuary where I don't need to worry. Thus, I love returning to the “musty old book” as you put it.
2. I can tell that you love what you do! Of course, the library is a pretty vast place. Do you have a most favorite spot within it? Your office excluded.
The front desk area, in the centre of the library. It's at the heart, and also where I get to meet and talk with students when they have questions or simply just want someone to listen to them. Plus, I can keep a proper eye on library happenings.
3. Part librarian, part super spy! This questions has probably been asked many times, but we change with experience and age. So, the answer could've also changed! So, I ask again....What’s the most difficult part of being the librarian?
The most rewarding? Definitely the student encounters and getting the chance to witness children discovering books that they really enjoy. That warms my heart. The most difficult part is still protecting the Restricted Section. There are many dangerous books kept there, as we've come to know.
4. I'm not going to lie, I've thought about sneaking in there….Ahem, what was the biggest challenge you had to face this term?
Juggling all of my responsibilities, and making sure that I gave equal attention and time to both books and students.
5. Switching gears a little, what would you say the "magical" to "muggle" book ratio is in the Hogwarts Library? Do you feel a responsibility to expose students to both types given your role (and seniority)?
I'd say that the ratio would be 80% magical books and 20% muggle; to give an estimate off the top of my head. And yes, I do feel a responsibility. It's my mission to expose all Hogwarts students to both types of books since I feel that both can provide life lessons and knowledge that everyone can benefit from. Also, I've come to realize that all books have the power to touch you in some way.
6. Interesting! After all this particular library has endured, do you live in constant fear for it and your precious tomes?
I don't live in constant fear, no, but I am definitely more peculiar about what types of security and spells are in place. Mainly, on the books and around the sections to ensure that the tomes don't get damaged in any way. After that horrific fire, for instance, I took it upon myself to make sure that every book was both fire and water proofed.
7. Wow. That's….a lot of books to work magic on, sir! Okay, for a man who comes into contact with so many different types of books, has there been any new additions to the library that you're eager to get your hands on? Assuming you have time to enjoy a good book. You seem so busy!
Right now, I'm eager to read some muggle classics that we've recently acquired. For example, Around the World in 80 days by Jules Verne. It seems like an interesting, fun read.
8. Very interesting, indeed! Could you list your current top five?
Oh, I enjoy all genres, and varying languages has never put me off. As for my current favorites, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them definitely makes the top five. Practical Defensive Magic ranks up there, as well, since keeping the library safe is of paramount importance. Enchantments in Baking is another, as I happen to know my way around the kitchen (and a baking pan). That may, or may not, shock you. The Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledore by Rita Skeeter has kept me intrigued these past few months, too. Lastly, The Tales of Beedle the Bard. It's a staple in any magical household and just so happens to be my son’s favorite.
9. I'd have never pegged you for a baking man! Okay, after so many terms, do you feel the library still holds mysteries for you to solve and discover?
I have actually stumbled upon books and niches that I've not yet familiarized myself with. As I did with the “career advice” section. It was a room that I simply found by accident one day. So yes, I believe there are still many mysteries held with these library walls.
10. Nicely put, sir! In conclusion, do you have a process for library book donations? Is that an available option for parents and school patrons? Asking for a friend.
I do! I gratefully accept most books. All I ask, if people are interested, is that they contact me first with any and all information regarding the books they wish to submit to the Hogwarts library. After receiving that information, I'll carefully review it, and then ask for the donations to be owled to me directly. All texts must be carefully observed before they can be put out for the students to read and check out. For safety reasons.
1. All I have to say is THIRTEEN YEARS. That is an incredibly long time to be staffed at Hogwarts, given the constant turn over. You obviously hold the secrets to keeping a job as stressful as this one can be. So, out with it, Mr. Kitridge. What has kept you returning to these musty old books (along with your various other titles)?
Has it really been that long? Wow, I guess time flies. Thirteen years is a long time, even if it hasn't felt like it. One secret as to why I come back is that the books never stress. They'll wait for you. And because books have always calmed me, I see the library as a serene sanctuary where I don't need to worry. Thus, I love returning to the “musty old book” as you put it.
2. I can tell that you love what you do! Of course, the library is a pretty vast place. Do you have a most favorite spot within it? Your office excluded.
The front desk area, in the centre of the library. It's at the heart, and also where I get to meet and talk with students when they have questions or simply just want someone to listen to them. Plus, I can keep a proper eye on library happenings.
3. Part librarian, part super spy! This questions has probably been asked many times, but we change with experience and age. So, the answer could've also changed! So, I ask again....What’s the most difficult part of being the librarian?
The most rewarding? Definitely the student encounters and getting the chance to witness children discovering books that they really enjoy. That warms my heart. The most difficult part is still protecting the Restricted Section. There are many dangerous books kept there, as we've come to know.
4. I'm not going to lie, I've thought about sneaking in there….Ahem, what was the biggest challenge you had to face this term?
Juggling all of my responsibilities, and making sure that I gave equal attention and time to both books and students.
5. Switching gears a little, what would you say the "magical" to "muggle" book ratio is in the Hogwarts Library? Do you feel a responsibility to expose students to both types given your role (and seniority)?
I'd say that the ratio would be 80% magical books and 20% muggle; to give an estimate off the top of my head. And yes, I do feel a responsibility. It's my mission to expose all Hogwarts students to both types of books since I feel that both can provide life lessons and knowledge that everyone can benefit from. Also, I've come to realize that all books have the power to touch you in some way.
6. Interesting! After all this particular library has endured, do you live in constant fear for it and your precious tomes?
I don't live in constant fear, no, but I am definitely more peculiar about what types of security and spells are in place. Mainly, on the books and around the sections to ensure that the tomes don't get damaged in any way. After that horrific fire, for instance, I took it upon myself to make sure that every book was both fire and water proofed.
7. Wow. That's….a lot of books to work magic on, sir! Okay, for a man who comes into contact with so many different types of books, has there been any new additions to the library that you're eager to get your hands on? Assuming you have time to enjoy a good book. You seem so busy!
Right now, I'm eager to read some muggle classics that we've recently acquired. For example, Around the World in 80 days by Jules Verne. It seems like an interesting, fun read.
8. Very interesting, indeed! Could you list your current top five?
Oh, I enjoy all genres, and varying languages has never put me off. As for my current favorites, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them definitely makes the top five. Practical Defensive Magic ranks up there, as well, since keeping the library safe is of paramount importance. Enchantments in Baking is another, as I happen to know my way around the kitchen (and a baking pan). That may, or may not, shock you. The Life and Lies of Albus Dumbledore by Rita Skeeter has kept me intrigued these past few months, too. Lastly, The Tales of Beedle the Bard. It's a staple in any magical household and just so happens to be my son’s favorite.
9. I'd have never pegged you for a baking man! Okay, after so many terms, do you feel the library still holds mysteries for you to solve and discover?
I have actually stumbled upon books and niches that I've not yet familiarized myself with. As I did with the “career advice” section. It was a room that I simply found by accident one day. So yes, I believe there are still many mysteries held with these library walls.
10. Nicely put, sir! In conclusion, do you have a process for library book donations? Is that an available option for parents and school patrons? Asking for a friend.
I do! I gratefully accept most books. All I ask, if people are interested, is that they contact me first with any and all information regarding the books they wish to submit to the Hogwarts library. After receiving that information, I'll carefully review it, and then ask for the donations to be owled to me directly. All texts must be carefully observed before they can be put out for the students to read and check out. For safety reasons.