About Us

I have worked in the education sector for over 20 years, with more than 12 years as an Executive Headteacher leading multiple academies. I feel privileged to have taken on the role of CEO at Orchard Multi Academy Trust, a trust I created from the ground up and have grown into the well-established and popular organisation it is today.

In my current role, I focus on the strategic leadership of the Trust, ensuring that the quality of education and school improvement remain our highest priorities. Compliance is a critical part of my work, as I am committed to making sure all children are kept safe at all times.

A key passion of mine has always been Special Educational Needs (SEN). I am dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment across the Trust where every child can thrive. Equally important is ensuring that both our fantastic pupils and our wonderful staff are central to all decision-making processes.

Through collaborative leadership and a clear vision, I strive to support and inspire our schools to deliver the best outcomes for every child in our care.

I have worked in the education sector since 2011, bringing a wealth of experience in school operations, finance, and governance. I began my career at Stretton Sugwas Academy, where I transitioned from administrative support into the role of school office manager, overseeing daily operations and supporting finance and HR processes.

My expertise expanded through governance roles across several academies, where I gained valuable insight into school leadership and compliance. In 2021, I was promoted to school business manager for two academies, later adding a third to my portfolio. During this time, I studied for a CIPFA Level 7 Diploma in School Financial and Operational Leadership and participating in an ESFA CFO mentorship programme. These experiences have equipped me with the strategic financial skills needed to support the future growth of Orchard Multi-Academy Trust with confidence and clarity.

I have worked in the education sector for over a decade, with extensive experience in early years provision, particularly within pre-school and nursery settings. Over time, my role has evolved to include school administration and leadership, and I now serve as the School Business Manager at Stretton Sugwas Academy.

My journey into governance began several years ago, working as a clerk to multiple academy boards. This experience gave me a strong foundation in governance processes and compliance, which I now apply in my role as Governance Professional for Orchard Multi-Academy Trust. I am passionate about ensuring robust governance across our schools and supporting effective decision-making at board level.

Combining my operational knowledge with governance expertise allows me to contribute strategically to the Trust’s development. I am committed to supporting our schools with integrity and a strong understanding of both the educational and business aspects of our work.

I have worked in education for over a decade, with a focus on school business and office management. During this time, I completed the Level 4 School Business Management Diploma, which gave me a strong foundation in the operational and strategic aspects of running a school. I’ve always enjoyed the variety and challenge of supporting schools to run smoothly and efficiently, and I take pride in contributing to environments where staff and students can thrive.

More recently, I’ve taken on a wider role across the Trust as HR Manager. This has allowed me to support our schools in developing people-focused approaches to recruitment, wellbeing, and staff development. I completed a Level 5 CIPD Associate Diploma in People Management to strengthen my knowledge in this area, and I’m passionate about creating positive, supportive workplaces where everyone feels valued and empowered to do their best work.

With over 30 years of experience in education, I have held a wide range of roles including SENDCo, Designated Safeguarding Lead, teacher, and Head of School. My background in Early Years Education, with a specialism in Special Educational Needs, has shaped my inclusive approach to leadership. I’ve worked closely with pupils, families, and professionals to remove barriers to learning, coordinate targeted interventions, and ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive. I’m committed to staying current with best practice and legislation, and I actively engage in professional development to strengthen my impact.

Drawing on this breadth of leadership experience, I have recently taken on the role of Safeguarding Manager across the Trust. This role allows me to support schools in maintaining high standards of safeguarding practice, while also providing assurance to directors that regular checks, compliance, and statutory responsibilities are being met. It’s a role rooted in collaboration, consistency, and a deep commitment to pupil welfare.

With over 20 years of safeguarding experience across education and social care, I bring a deep and strategic understanding of child protection to my role as Lead DSL for Orchard Multi Academy Trust. My background includes leadership as a registered manager for children’s homes in Herefordshire and Powys, where I developed and embedded robust safeguarding frameworks. I am committed to creating a culture where safeguarding is not just a statutory duty but a shared ethos across all levels of school life.

My leadership style is rooted in support and coaching, ensuring staff are confident and well-equipped to fulfil their safeguarding responsibilities. I work closely with external agencies to maintain high standards of communication and intervention, and I stay up to date with evolving legislation to ensure compliance and best practice. This role allows me to provide assurance to Trust directors that safeguarding systems are consistently monitored, effective, and responsive to need.

With over 12 years of experience in Early Years and Key Stage 1 education, I have developed a strong reputation for raising standards and leading innovation in early learning. My expertise lies in Reception and Year 1, where I’ve successfully led teams through Ofsted inspections, achieving Outstanding outcomes. I have a deep understanding of child development and curriculum design, and I’ve led on planning, assessment, and transitions into Key Stage 1, always ensuring provision is inclusive, engaging, and rooted in best practice.

As EYFS Lead for Orchard Multi Academy Trust, I work across schools to support high-quality early years provision through coaching, curriculum development, and data-informed improvement planning. I’ve delivered CPD, led moderation, and provided school-to-school support across Herefordshire, helping colleagues refine their environments and pedagogy. I’m passionate about collaboration and committed to ensuring every child receives the strongest possible foundation for lifelong learning.

As the Compliance and Health & Safety Officer for Orchard Multi-Academy Trust, I’m committed to ensuring that every pupil, colleague, and visitor feels secure and protected across all our schools.

With a keen eye for detail and a strong ability to analyse data, I ensure our policies and practices meet the highest standards of compliance and safeguarding. My role involves working closely with school leaders, staff, and external partners to promote a culture of safety, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Communication is central to my approach – whether organising training, reporting to trust leadership, or supporting staff on the ground, I aim to make compliance clear, accessible, and meaningful. For me, this work is about more than regulations; it’s about protecting wellbeing and enabling every child to learn in a safe, nurturing environment.