I took up the role of Chair of Governors for Thames Valley School the day before its most recent Ofsted inspection and at the same time became a trustee for NASAT.

I have spent almost thirty years working in education with the vast majority spent in specialist school and alternative provision.  I have worked across the sector leading pupil referral units, SEMH / ASD schools for both primary and secondary pupils and also within secure settings for some of the most challenging and vulnerable learners, many of whom have significant undiagnosed and unmet needs.  For the last five years I have worked in multi-academy trusts, firstly as Executive Director of Education, Standards and Safeguarding and, most recently, as CEO of a small primary mainstream trust in South East London.  I remain committed to ensuring the educational offer and entitlement for all children and young people is exciting, engaging and of the highest standards, always focusing on preparing pupils for the next stage in their lives and igniting the spark of curiosity to support them as lifelong learners.

I was approached by the NASAT to take up the role of Chair of Governors of Thames Valley earlier this academic year and have found the experience both stimulating and challenging, particularly in the context of the Ofsted inspection within the first twenty-four hours!  However, I have seen the commitment of staff to the pupils under the leadership of the Principal which is resulting in rapid progress being made.  

On a personal note, as a late diagnosed autistic adult, this is a cause which is close to my heart and about which I feel passionately.  My own experience has taught me that barriers can be overcome, ambitions achieved and specific strengths found in the autistic lived experience which emphasise the importance of the educational offer being both broad and aspirational for all learners.  Our society is enriched by the diversity of difference and being part of NASAT and Thames Valley School is an opportunity to contribute to this.