Boyup Brook teacher steals show in re-enactment of tyrannical Matilda principal Mrs Trunchbull

A Boyup Brook teacher transformed herself into the tyrannical principal from a classic novel-turned-movie, playing the part of a “grumpy, mean” leader for a whole day. Boyup Brook District High School celebrated the annual Book Week with a dress-up day and parade on August 20 for all year groups and staff. Principal Melissa Reimers said the aim of Book Week was to promote a love of reading and encourage imagination and creativity through literature. “It’s an opportunity for students to engage with books in a fun and interactive way, fostering a lifelong passion for reading,” she said. “Additionally, the event helps to strengthen literacy skills, build confidence and create a sense of belonging within the school community. “The students showed incredible creativity, coming dressed as characters from a wide range of stories, including Mario Brothers, Where’s Wally, Inside Out, Bluey, Alice in Wonderland, Grandpa’s Great Escape, Little Red Riding Hood and many more.” Staff members also embraced the spirit of Book Week by forming groups and dressing up as characters from beloved books such as Matilda, Harry Potter, Possum Magic, The Little Mermaid, The Gingerbread Man, and The Gruffalo. “A stand-out moment was Mrs Kelly Mader’s hilarious re-enactment of Miss Trunchbull from Roald Dahl’s novel Matilda, which truly stole the show and had everyone laughing heartily,” Ms Reimers said. Mrs Mader told the Times her inspiration for Miss Trunchbull came from her “amazing colleagues” and their shared love of author, Roald Dahl. “I was lucky enough to be able to choose Miss Trunchbull because I love a character with a bit of spunk,” Mrs Mader told the Times. “The illustrations and movies made it really easy to put together a costume. “I loved playing Miss Trunchbull because she is such a strong character and I got to be grumpy, mean, dominating teacher all day. “You don’t usually get away with threatening students with corporal punishment anymore.” Ms Reimers said the success of the event was a testament to the dedication of the staff, students and parents, who all put in a tremendous effort to bring the characters to life.