I served as a SENCO for 17 years and held Headteacher roles in two schools before joining Fen Rivers six years ago. My governance experience includes Chair of Governors at a primary school and membership of the PGCE Governing Board at UEA, where I also supported safeguarding and safer recruitment for PGCE students.

I am responsible for the strategic leadership of the school, including financial management, admissions and tribunals, and the development of the strategic monitoring plan. This plan is closely aligned with the school’s self-evaluation and priorities under the Ofsted framework. I also oversee attendance, which has improved year on year. Beyond the school, I represent the Trust as the NASSH representative for the Norfolk Safeguarding Children Partnership and serve as part of the group who together are the Non-Statutory Safeguarding Partner for Education on the safeguarding board. I am also a Trustee at Open Road Norfolk.

I am a qualified Mental Health First Aider and Youth Mental Health First Aid Instructor, a Fellow of The Chartered College of Teaching, and hold a Level 5 Diploma in Trauma and Mental Health Informed Practice. I also hold a Master’s degree in Leadership of Mental Health and Wellbeing in Schools, alongside qualifications in supervision, therapeutic and trauma-informed practice and Careers Leadership (Level 7).

I am a passionate advocate for positive mental health and wellbeing. I believe that when staff and pupils feel safe, valued, and supported to be their authentic selves, they thrive—personally, socially, and academically.

In my role, I place great emphasis on the wellbeing and continuous professional development of our teaching team. Employing tailored, evidence-based CPD, I ensure that both teachers and students receive targeted support to foster their growth. My responsibilities also encompass strategic management of teaching and learning, alongside operational oversight of the school, which includes line management of teachers, coordination of enrichment activities, and assessment oversight.

I have a strong focus on the induction and probation of new staff, mentoring PGCE students, and managing behaviour data for reporting to the Local Governing Board. My strategic oversight extends to the audit of SEN funding to ensure students’ needs can be met. I am proud to

I remain committed to enhancing the educational experiences of our children and the professional lives of our staff, monitoring subject leaders to ensure consistent high standards are maintained throughout our institution.

Since joining Fen Rivers in September 2020, I have embraced multiple roles, serving as a KS2 Class Teacher, Staff Development Lead, and, as of July 2021, I proudly hold the position of SENCO and Assistant Head. I am currently undertaking the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership, and am recently qualified as a Level 7 Assessor, empowering me to oversee assessments for exams access arrangements for our students.

In my leadership capacity, I strive to ensure the best possible outcomes for all pupils through collaborative teamwork with staff, pupils, parents, and carers, recognising that this collective approach is essential for pupil progress and emotional well-being. The most rewarding aspect of my role is witnessing our pupils’ achievements and taking immense pride in their successes.

My responsibilities also encompass strategic management of Teaching Assistants, oversight of bespoke learner provisions, the implementation of Behaviour Support Plans and Individual Learning Plans, and compliance with Education, Health and Care Plans. Additionally, I lead the induction and mentoring of Early Career Teachers, coordinate the School Council, and oversee the timetabling of our Sensory Room and Academic Interventions, all of which significantly contribute to our school’s commitment to inclusive, high-quality education.

Leading the Therapeutic Team, I am responsible for providing tailored support to both staff and students. Through supervisions and small group professional development sessions, I offer guidance, practical help, and mentoring, enabling our learners to progress in a supportive environment. My strategic management of the Multi-Disciplinary Team further enhances our holistic approach to education, with a focus on safeguarding compliance and quality assurance for bespoke alternative provisions.

In addition to these responsibilities, I oversee the recording of behaviour data, including incidents requiring physical intervention, ensuring thorough analysis and reporting for continuous improvement. I am also the Careers Lead and Deputy Exams Officer, facilitating opportunities for our students to explore their options beyond school.

I have a post-graduate in Youth and Childhood Studies and a Level 7 Post Graduate Certificate in Careers Leadership form part of my continuous professional development.

Through my multifaceted role, I strive to foster a safe, inclusive and thriving educational environment for all members of our community, committed to the highest standards of practice and care.