Leadership Team

I studied Classics and Law at the University of London. I joined West Heath School 16 years ago, having enjoyed a successful career in Private Banking and Corporate Law. Education has been where I have found my true vocation and passion. My roles at West Heath have included, Strategic Head of KS2 and KS3, Vice Principal Corporate Operations and Acting Deputy Principal, which has afforded me an extensive and detailed perspective of our SEND provision.

My special interest has been pupils who have experienced relational trauma and loss, which inspired me to qualify as an Attachment Lead. As Principal, my vision is to embed this knowledge within our school, to form the bedrock from which we deliver our provision, underpinned by therapeutic practice.

My interests include visiting museums and art galleries, creative writing, sailing in the Aegean, swimming, tennis and walking in the countryside. I enjoy exploring archaeological sites and absorbing the diverse cultures of other countries with my family.

I initially studied Silversmithing at the Kent Institute of Art and Design, before entering a career in teaching. During that period I had a range of very diverse jobs within the art and construction Industry, however the vocational nature of teaching and the fulfilment that is derived from empowering young people through education has given me my greatest sense of pleasure.  

Following this, I taught in a wide range of alternative curriculum settings, before finally joining West Heath School. 

In addition to my role as Head of Creative and Technical Faculty, I was West Heath School’s Quality Assurance Officer and a lot of my papers have been used for standardised training by examination boards. Additionally, I have been the curriculum lead within the therapeutic wing for learners with complex needs and conditions.  

My interests outside of work include live music, visiting art galleries, walking, and playing badminton. I enjoy socialising with my family and friends over food. I also very much enjoy creating art and jewellery in my workshop at home.  

I am a CIMA qualified Finance professional with over 15 years of experience gained in commercial organisations and charities alike.

I have dealt with complex financial matters and analysis of multi-million pound contracts.

For me people are organisations' greatest asset and looking after them will ensure business success.

In my free time I love spending time with my family. I am also a great supporter of mental health and run (non commercially) boot camps to promote physical and mental health as I love sport. I also support charities which help homeless people.

After studying English at the University of Sussex, I knew that I wanted to work with young people in education. I was accepted onto the TeachFirst programme in 2010 and I have spent the majority of my ten-year career working in challenging inner-city London schools in a variety of positions such as Head of House, Head of ITT and NQTs and Head of English.

Through this experience, I have learnt that forming nurturing relationships with students is key to creating a positive mindset that enables students to access their learning. I believe that a student-centred, personalised curriculum not only promotes academic success but encourages students to develop their unique talents and strengths and enjoy their learning. I look forward to working with students and staff to both continue and develop the outstanding curriculum at West Heath School.

Before starting TeachFirst, I spent two years working in a literary agency and I continue to develop my own creative writing, including several weird and wonderful dinosaur/ mythical beast themed short stories for my son. I also try to indulge my passion for reading and visiting the theatre as often as I can.

Coming soon ......

Following 20 years in marketing (a significant percentage at senior management level), a change in career direction led to me retraining as a Child and Adolescent Psychologist.  This involved gaining a BSc (Hons) in Psychology, an MSc in Developmental Psychology, and a Doctorate in Child and Adolescent Mental Health Disorders (specialising in childhood trauma).

In addition to over 20 years of working in a variety of schools (mainstream and specialist, primary and secondary) including over 13 years at West Heath, I also gained experience of working in clinical settings whilst completing my doctorate.  Having held various roles within West Heath, I am currently the Head of HEART and Therapy, overseeing both our specialist mental health department, and our extensive multidisciplinary therapy team.

In addition to my role at West Heath, I am an occasional guest lecturer on mental health disorders, and a consultant on several external research projects. I have presented my research at a number of UK and European conferences, and I am also a published author in both national and international publications.

I started my career at West Heath School as a teaching assistant, before qualifying to become a Maths teacher.  Prior to training as a SENCo I was also the schools’ Exams Officer and the Chair of the Staff Consultation Group.  As well as my SENCo responsibilities, I am involved in the Initial Teacher Training programme at the school.

I believe West Heath School really does “Rebuild Lives Through Education”, and am proud to be working with a fantastic staff team to help improve the lives and opportunities of so many young people.