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.  

Coming soon ...

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.

After studying Social Work at Cardiff Metropolitan University, I moved back to England and joined Kent Social Services working within Children’s Services. I remained with Kent for over 7 years working within a variety of Children’s Social Work teams including the Looked After, Court, Child Protection and Child In Need Team before progressing as a Team Manager working with Child In Care and Unaccompanied Minors.

I moved to Croydon Social Services as a Manager for a Post Court Children Looked After Team and remained for 3 and a half years before taking the opportunity to move to West Heath School as Head of Care and Safeguarding.

I am looking forward to working with students and colleagues to provide a safe and thriving environment for young people to learn, grow and progress their life journeys.

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.