The joys of a state funded education in which high performing teachers ensured that learning was engaging, motivational and full of new experiences ignited in me a passion for lifelong learning and inspired me to train as a teacher. Across a career of 36 years, I worked in schools as a teacher, headteacher and leadership consultant. Work in the latter posts allowed me to serve schools of different size, socioeconomic makeup and religious character, building a deep knowledge and understanding of factors that contribute to education that has high impact for all. My experience includes leadership of schools recognised by Ofsted as providing outstanding provision, as well as settings identified as having serious weaknesses which required empowering leadership to bring about rapid and sustainable improvement.

For 15 years I fulfilled the roles of SENDCo and Designated Safeguarding Lead for the schools in which I worked as a leader. Experience accrued in these positions enables me to make a tangible contribution to discussion and action that promotes diversity and inclusion and fosters a culture where no individual or group is disadvantaged or treated less favourably than others.

On retirement in August 2023, I moved to Dorset and am now happily settled in the town of Verwood where I live with my sister and our rescue dog called Wolfie, who come rain or shine, loves forest walks and romps along Dorset’s stunning beaches. I enjoy gardening and have recently acquired a sewing machine with the intention of nurturing my creative skills!

I visited Wimborne St Giles for the 2024 Scarecrow Trail, which I enjoyed greatly and was most impressed by the positive energy that ran through the community. Eighteen months into my retirement and missing contact with children, staff and the communities schools serve, I decided to seek a role in a school once again, but this time as a governor. On the back of the pleasure I gained from participating in the Scarecrow Trail, I was delighted to be offered a position as a Foundation Governor at Wimborne St Giles First School and Nursery where I join an active team of governors dedicated to securing next step developments for a school that is already serving pupils well. With time to give, I am committed to using my knowledge, skills and personal qualities to support the strategic development of the school and, along with my fellow governors, will work closely with the Headteacher in a continuous cycle of raising standards of achievement for all pupils and ensuring that limited resources are effectively used.