I have been a primary school teacher for the last 15 years and, over this time, I have taught children from as young as nursery, all the way up to Year Six. This has given me a great insight into school life and a passion for ensuring that all children are given the opportunities to achieve.

My own daughter attends Grendon Primary School and I think it is important, as a parent, to have an impact on the school that my child attends, not only for her but for all the children in the community.

I hope to use my time as governor to have a positive impact on learning outcomes for all children.

Since the time my son joined Grendon in 2020, I have seen how he has thrived in his learning and development and I wanted to be part of making a difference to the children and wider community by putting myself forward to be a governor. I have been in this role now since late 2022, bringing my skills and experience to contribute to robust governance and to the supportive and positive environment of the school.

I am a registered counsellor with over 20 years’ post-qualifying experience, as well as several years previously working with Childline. In addition to a strong interest in the mental health and well-being of children and young people, safeguarding and pastoral support, my training and experience also mean that I bring knowledge and understanding of how best to support good mental health within organisations and staff teams.

My current professional role is as Head of Research for a large professional body for counselling and psychotherapy, which means that I can bring knowledge around data analysis and critical evaluation of evidence to support the school and governing body. In addition, I have a good knowledge of the need for compliance and governance processes.

Outside work and family life, I have regularly played the flute and piccolo in local amateur orchestras for many years. I am passionate about the value, enrichment and opportunities that all the creative arts can offer children.

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