My career in education began as a Learning Support Assistant, working directly alongside young people and supporting them in their learning, before I progressed into roles as a Teacher, SENDCo and now Assistant Headteacher. Over more than 10 years in education, I have worked across a range of settings, gaining a broad understanding of education and the diverse needs of young people. These experiences continue to shape my approach to leadership, teaching and supporting pupils to thrive.
Having previously worked as a primary teacher, I have strong subject knowledge across a wide curriculum, with particular strengths in curriculum development and leadership. At the heart of my approach is something I have always encouraged pupils to do: ask questions, be curious and seek the truth. In a world where young people are surrounded by information, opinions and influence, developing critical thinking and discernment is more important than ever. Education should give young people not simply knowledge, but the confidence to question, consider evidence, explore different perspectives and think for themselves.
Central to my practice is the understanding that behaviour is a form of communication, and that exploring the ‘why’ behind behaviour is often the starting point for meaningful change. My approach is naturally calm, gentle and patient, with relationships, empathy and consistency at its heart, alongside clear boundaries and high expectations. I have a strong pastoral background and a particular professional interest in trauma, mental health, learning and relational psychology. I hold a degree in English, a Master’s degree in Psychology, the NPQ for SENDCOs, QTS and a PGCE. My background in psychology has strengthened my understanding of the factors that influence behaviour, relationships and learning, and the importance of continuing to ask ‘why’, particularly when something is not working for a young person.
I am also passionate about learning extending beyond the classroom and have enjoyed developing extracurricular, creative and enrichment opportunities throughout my career. Real-life application and experiential learning are an important part of my approach, allowing pupils to learn through their own experiences and from the experiences and perspectives of others. One of my greatest aims is to spark an interest in something a young person has never encountered before, or help them uncover a strength or talent they never knew they had. For me, education is about creating those moments where a young person discovers the light within themselves – sparking curiosity, a sense of purpose and a new understanding of their own potential.
As Assistant Headteacher at Pierview Academy, I am committed to creating a nurturing, aspirational environment where young people feel safe, understood and valued while recognising what they are capable of. I want our pupils to leave us with knowledge and skills, but also with curiosity, confidence, critical thinking and discernment to navigate the world around them and make informed choices about their futures.