I worked as a SENCO for 15 years, as well as leading as Headteacher in two previous schools, before joining Fen Rivers three and a half years ago.  During this time I served as a Chair of Governors in a Primary school as well as being on the PGCE Management Committee at UEA and supporting with Safeguarding as part of Safer Recruitment of PGCE Students. I am also a Mental Health and Youth Mental Health First Aider and a Fellow of The Chartered College of Teaching and have recently completed a Level 5 Diploma in Trauma and Mental Health Informed Practice. I have previously been a governor of a local primary school, firmly believing in giving something back.

I am a passionate advocate for positive mental health and wellbeing, firmly believing that my staff team and the pupils we serve will all thrive and achieve great things if we care for their wellbeing and they are able to be their authentic selves; feeling seen, heard and held in mind. I have, this year completed Masters Level study in Leadership of Mental Health and Wellbeing in schools, as well as in therapeutic and trauma informed practice and a Post Graduate Level 7 Certificate in Careers Leadership. This school year I am part of the new NPQEL (National Professional Qualification for Executive Leaders) cohort of leaders.

As a practitioner, I am keen to maximise creative learning opportunities, including practical Maths, outdoor teambuilding and also the building of core life skills and communication. I am passionate about unlocking the best in our children and supporting them on their journeys towards becoming confident, thoughtful, valued members of society.

As a leader, I am focused on supporting the wellbeing and continuous professional development of our team by providing tailored, evidence-based CPD, which is specifically designed to meet the needs of our students and teachers. I joined the team at The Fen Rivers Academy in 2019 and have recently begun studying for my National Professional Qualification for Headship.

I have a passion for advocating for the rights of children with special educational needs and as such I completed The National Award for SEN Coordination in 2017. Since joining Fen Rivers in September 2020, I have worked as a KS2 class teacher, Staff Development Lead and in July 2021, was appointed as SENCO and Assistant Head. I am currently undertaking the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership. I have recently qualified as a Level 7 Assessor, which qualifies me to carry out all the assessments for the exams access arrangements for our students.

I strive to ensure the very best outcomes for our pupils through working as a team with staff, pupils, parents and carers; viewing this as essential to pupil progress and well-being. It is no surprise, therefore, that the most rewarding part of my job is seeing our pupils succeed and taking pride in their successes and achievements.

I am responsible for providing support for staff and students through 1:1 and small group targeted sessions that offer advice, guidance, practical help and mentoring to appropriately meet their needs. I am also the lead on recording data for behaviour including physical interventions and related health and safety incidents.

In my spare time, I am continuing with my Post Graduate studies in Youth and Childhood Studies as well as making memories of adventures with my young family and two naughty dachshunds. I am also undertaking a Level 7 Post Graduate Certificate in Careers Leadership this year as well as continuing therapeutic training. I also have a keen interest in further developing the therapeutic offer to students as part of my work.