Our SLES/ALES

School:
Sandringham School, St Albans

Current Role:
KS3 Coordinator for English

About Me:

At the heart of my role, I am an outstanding practitioner. I have worked hard in eight years to develop a range of teaching and learning strategies that support my students in their progress. Working in two schools other than Sandringham has also allowed me to draw upon a wide range of behavioural and academic experience.

In 2014, I was a core teacher in an English faculty that delivered 96% A-C in English Language and 86% Literature. 100% of my class achieved their target grade in Language. At A-Level this year, my Year 12 English Language class secured an ALPS score of 2 and in my outstanding OFSTED inspections in 2013 and 2014, my lessons were referenced for their exemplary assessment procedure and their high levels of progress.

In terms of curriculum, my role as Assistant Head of English and KS3 Coordinator has offered opportunities to respond successfully to range of changes that have taken place in education. Most recently, I have been part of the working party developing “life without levels” which has resulted in a model implemented in September 2016. This work has been used to support other schools in the process. As KS5 Coordinator early in my career, I have used my knowledge and experience to inform other parts of my role as a manager and leader of curriculum across the faculty.

Within the context of the wider school, I identified an area of development regarding teacher and TA collaboration and successfully completed a HertsCam TLDW research project last year. I was able to feedback to whole staff about my findings. I developed my skills as trainer of outstanding TAs with Olevi in May 2016. Not only will this training impact our own school, I will be delivering Inset within the Teaching School Alliance and beyond.

Furthermore, as Gifted and Talented Coordinator, a large amount of reading and research around talent lead me to believe that this area needed to evolve and modernise to suit our school needs. I successfully re-branded “Gifted and Talented” in its entirety which encouraged a more inclusive approach, an ethos of “gifted and talented for all.”

I am also a trained coach (Olevi, The Power of Coaching) and successfully created and implemented my own coaching programme for post-NQTs. I also currently coach at Sandringham.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• KS3 English Curriculum and Assessment
• Utilising TAs effectively in the classroom
• Coaching

Other areas of expertise:

• Gifted and Talented
• The School’s Direct programme (Lead Tutor)

Recent training:

• Olevi’s “Outstanding Teaching Assistant Programme – Training the Trainers”

School:
St Albans Girls’ School

Current Role:
Specialist Leader in Education, Curriculum Leader for Geography

About Me:

I have been working at St Albans Girls’ School for nearly three years and have previously worked in a large mixed school in North West London and in the independent sector. These schools have varied greatly in terms of ability, catchment and ethos. Through my ten years in teaching I have taken on a range of roles within these schools and have been a middle leader for seven years as both a head of department and head of faculty. I have gained a lot of experience in managing the challenges that come with these roles in order to create a department/faculty that is able to work together effectively to the benefit of the students and the staff. I have led several staff training sessions on middle leadership and dealing with key issues e.g. difficult conversation with staff.

Recently I have had the opportunity to work with departments in other schools with middle leaders that were facing a range of challenges. I have found this to be a thoroughly fulfilling and reflective experience. Through my experience of coaching and mentoring (both ITTs/NQTS and new Middle Leaders) I have been able to support the middle leaders within these department in making short and long term goals, and creating strategies for them to use to meet these.

I am very interested in the development of middle leaders and helping them to establish thriving departments with quality teaching and learning at their core. Through working as a Head of Humanities with a main focus on behaviour for learning, I am also interested in developing strategies to support with BFL and how curriculum design is crucially important to this. I am currently involved in working with the Head of 6th Form in leading the 6th Form teaching and learning working party at STAG’s, I am very interested in effective 6th form teaching and how this can be further developed through strategies such as flipped learning.

Examination boards Teaching:

• Edexcel B Geography GCSE
• Edexcel A level Geography

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Middle Leadership

Other areas of expertise:

• Geography- teaching and learning
• Mentoring- NQT’s/ITT’s and new Curriculum Leaders

Recent training:

• A level (Edexcel)– Marking mock examinations and using feedback effectively
• GCSE (9-1)- Mock Marking Training
• Marking NEA A level Geography
• Effective Middle Leadership

From September 2019 School: Katherine Warrington School, Harpenden

From September 2019: Inclusion Lead

About Me:

I am a skilled and experienced teacher and senior leader with a clear vision of what successful learning is.
I was employed as an Assistant Principal at the ULT Totteridge Academy from Dec 2014 until 2017.  I led on Teaching and Learning, ITT and NQT induction, Careers and was also responsible for CPD in the school. CPD needs are based upon my detailed working knowledge of both teachers and pupils and I target training and support in many different ways. On an individual level, I worked closely with teachers, using support plan structures and coaching techniques to improve performance and as a result pupil attainment. I also worked with departments, conducting full department reviews and designing appropriate development strategies, which are then monitored through line management procedures.

On a whole school level, I was responsible for the monitoring of effective teaching and learning, through lesson observation, work scrutiny and detailed analysis of planning materials. I frequently led whole staff CPD. I have also delivered CPD to middle leaders to enhance their own CPD as well as that of their teams.

Previously I was employed for 18 years at the highly successful Central Foundation Boys School in central London and held the roles of Head of French, Exams Officer, NQT induction tutor, and Lead practitioner, as a member of the extended senior leadership team. I have been a professional learning mentor for both new and experienced staff and have much experience of professional coaching. I was responsible for creating a thorough yearlong induction programme for both NQT and experienced teachers, as well as a School Direct partnership with 2 other schools in Islington, and have also delivered CPD on behalf of Islington LEA.

I have completed extensive training on what constitutes effective lesson observation and have participated in shared observations in 3 Ofsted inspections within the schools that I have been working in. I am also a trained Challenge Partners reviewer and have most recently participated in a review of a middle school.

I was appointed an SLE in 2013 and have worked within the Alban Teaching School Alliance to support the delivery of modern foreign languages across both key stages 3&4. Furthermore I have worked with other SLE colleagues from within the Alban Teaching School Alliance and we successfully secured national funding to design and implement  the MFL teacher subject specialism programme for delivery from September 2016 to date.

I took a career break in 2018-19 and am currently completing my NASENCO training before taking up a new position in September 2019 as Inclusion lead at Katherine Warington School, Harpenden.

Specialist areas of expertise

• Modern Foreign Languages (French specialism)
• Teaching and Learning
• CPD

Other areas of expertise:

• NQT Induction
• Mentoring
• Teaching and learning

Recent training:

• Effective Lesson Observation (3 days)
• Challenge Partner Reviewer training
• Prevent and safeguarding training

Exam Boards taught:

AQA

School: Sandringham School

Current Role: Assistant Headteacher

About Me

I have currently worked at Sandringham since September 2018 and am responsible for a number of areas including NQTs and RQTs, reporting and assessment without levels, parental engagement, coaching, catch-up funding and the student leadership team.

Previously I worked at Canons High for 7 years where I had a number of roles, the main being Head of English and Media, responsible for the progress of students at KS3-5 in these subjects. In this role, I made a number of changes to the way in which the curriculum was organised, namely reducing the number of areas studies to focus on depth as well as redesigning the KS4 curriculum to include more spacing and interleaving and introducing split classes to improve student experience.

I also held a number of other responsibilities during my time there, the majority focusing on curriculum development, assessment without levels and CPD. A very large project which I worked on in school was introducing a new assessment framework at KS3 which is based on SOLO Taxonomy. This project took 3 years and I was involved from research and development, undertaking a pilot study, review and evaluation before implementation across school. I have also been a coach both in school and, for the last three years, on the DfE Women Ed programme.

My personal interests within education include coaching, teaching and learning and challenge. I have recently worked with NACE on a project around KS3 transition which involved producing an Essentials Guide and delivering CPD including a webinar. I have also worked with NACE in a number of schools on Challenge to help colleagues develop provision and practise. I have found my work in coaching particularly rewarding and very much enjoyed working with women across a number of different schools and with different levels of experience.

Exam Boards taught:

• AQA English Language and English Literature GCSE.
• Previously taught OCR English Literature A’Level at Canons High.

Specialist Areas of expertise:

• CPD

Other areas of expertise:

• Assessment
• Teaching and Learning
• English
• Coaching

Recent Training:

New to Assistant Headteacher Programme

School:
Robert Barclay Academy, Hoddesdon

Current Role:
Specialist Leader in Education, Assistant Headteacher

About Me:

I have been Assistant Headteacher at the school since 2017, responsible for standards, raising attainment, monitoring and internal quality assurance. During my tenure, I have been responsible for implementing numerous strategies which have enabled us to track progress and react to concerns when identified.
I have completed a Masters Degree at the University of Cambridge in Education, focusing mainly on assessment. I have developed methods to increase the efficiency of marking, helping pupils to learn better from the feedback they receive whilst also helping staff to manage their workload. I have implemented these strategies within my faculty and have presented my work to numerous schools at networking events. I am particularly interested in how the information gleaned from marking can be used in a better way to benefit pupils and teachers alike. I am adept at creating systems which work well, whether paper based or using database solutions.
I am also competent in assessment at department/faculty level, particularly in MFL. I have developed a good understanding of what needs to be put in place to enable pupils to make the best progress that they can. Thorough long-term planning and careful consideration of options before changes are made are my key strengths in this regard.
I have supported several NQTs, GTPs and staff during my career. I have also been part of the ‘Life after Levels’ consultation group which supported secondary schools in their move away from National Curriculum levels.

Specialist areas of expertise

• Assessment and marking
• Modern Foreign Languages teaching

Other areas of expertise:

• Curriculum design
• New curriculum updates
• Supporting new staff

Recent training:

• SLE (2016)
• M.Ed (2016) Leadership

Exam Boards taught:

AQA (GCSE and A-Level French and German)

School:
Sir John Lawes School, Harpenden

Current Role:
Assistant Headteacher

Responsibilities:
Teaching and learning;Teacher led development work; SMSC; Assemblies; Harpenden Secondary Schools Trust liaison; Staff cover; Senior link for Year 7, Maths, Media and PSHE/Citizenship

About Me:

I first arrived at Sir John Lawes in 2007, as second in English. After spending four years as head of department, I joined the senior leadership team as assistant headteacher in 2014. Since then, my main focus has been on teaching and learning, and I have led school improvement work, staff development and events in this area. As part of this, I also lead on SMSC education, which has included community cohesion and links with other schools, as well as WRAP training. I am responsible for our HertsCam Teacher Led Development group and am currently in my first year of the HertsCam MEd in Leading Teaching and Learning. Their philosophy of non-positional teacher leadership has had a great influence on the teaching and learning initiatives I have led within our school.

My experience as an English teacher goes back to 2002. I spent the first few years of my career in South London, where I worked as second in English, gifted and talented co-ordinator, and head of year 11. Since becoming an SLE in 2013, I have supported schools with non-specialist English teachers, helped with mock exam moderation, and collaborated with schools to review English provision through a process of meetings, work scrutiny, lesson observation, student voice, and collaborative planning for schemes of learning.

I am most passionate about the benefits of teachers working collaboratively to improve students’ education. I am also interested in ways we can challenge students of all abilities, develop young people’s curiosity, use questioning effectively, engage hard-to-reach families, and find ways to address emotional barriers to learning. I have developed projects on many of these areas and also delivered workshops on other areas, such as: literacy, encouraging students to take pride in their work, and teacher’s use of voice in classroom settings.

Specialist areas of expertise

• I was appointed SLE for English when I was Head of English in 2013.

Other areas of expertise:

• Teaching and learning across the school, including staff development in leading learning and improving teaching, and developing middle leaders.

Recent training:

In the past 12 months I have participated the following CPD activities:

• I have started a Masters in Education with the University of Hertfordshire
• I have been on the reviewing team for 2 Challenge Partners QA reviews, where I led on teaching and learning (Jan 2016) and achievement and outcomes (Oct 2016).
• ‘Crossing the Bridge’, which focused on transition from primary to secondary (July 2016).
• I have led SJL Academies Trust training for middle leaders, as part of our Trust Leadership Conference 2016-17, but also for ATSA (Jan 2016). I also led and participated in the SJL Trust conference for senior leaders in November 2016.
• I have led and attended two Sir John Lawes staff training sessions: learning groups 2015-16 and the annual staff conference (March 2016).

School:
Sir John Lawes School

Current Role:
Assistant Head of Modern Foreign Languages, Lead Coordinator of Have You Met

About Me:

I have been at Sir John Lawes School, Harpenden, since January 2016. Having returned to the UK from France in 2011, I spent almost 4 years teaching at Verulam School in St Albans before moving to Sir John Lawes to take up the position of Assistant Head of Faculty. As a teacher of MFL, I have taught French to KS3, KS4, and KS5, Spanish to KS3 and KS4, as well as German to years 7 and 8. I have developed a range of successful teaching and learning strategies that support our students’ learning and progress. I am interested in continuing to develop strategies to improve MFL teaching and learning without adding to staff workload.

I was Assistant Head of Faculty when the changes were made to GCSE and A level examinations and in terms of curriculum I have had the opportunities to develop new schemes of work and assessments that respond successfully to the recent changes in education.

I have worked with the University of Hertfordshire to subject mentor several PGCE students. I have also mentored NQTs and supported more experienced colleagues with aspects of their teaching such as behaviour management.

I have always enjoyed my pastoral role as a form tutor and have led several initiatives within my year team producing resources to help improve resilience or to provide students with the skills they need to successfully revise for exams. I have also led several training sessions on being an outstanding form tutor at both Sir John Lawes and at my previous school and in 2016 I completed a TLDW on form tutoring and the use of the form tutor board. This work has allowed me to recognise the importance of collaborative work between teachers to make improvements within schools.

Within the context of the wider school, I am lead coordinator of Have You Met, a project aimed at raising student profile of our quieter, more discreet students. I have been the lead co-ordinator for this project for the last two years and have developed the project to now include a Have You Met your teacher event.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Modern Foreign Languages

Other areas of expertise:

• Support for those new to teaching (PGCE trainee and NQT mentoring)

Recent training:

• Hacking the receptive skills and enhancing metacognition in the MFL classroom.
• Becoming a pastoral leader
• Emerging Middle Leaders.

Examination boards taught:

• AQA (GCSE and A Level)

School:
Leventhorpe School

Current Role:
Head of English and Drama Faculty

About Me:

I am currently Head of the English and Drama Faculty at Leventhorpe and also provide support to other middle leaders. I am an outstanding practitioner and, over many years under my leadership, the English department has achieved outstanding results at both Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5.

I have vast experience in leading and managing people and feel that one of my greatest strengths is my ability to motivate and energise a team and lead them with a common purpose. I am passionate but tolerant and strongly believe that everyone has a valuable contribution to make. Along with my support work at three other schools, this has helped me develop the necessary empathy and understanding to get the best out of colleagues. I have developed my coaching skills and been well received by the schools and teachers I have supported.

I have also been involved in driving improvement in the middle leadership through focused training, one-to-one mentoring and implementing intervention strategies. One of my biggest successes was planning and delivering an INSET session for all the middle leaders and SLT on raising student achievement. I also deliver annual training on Managing a Successful Department for our Middle Leadership Programme.

I have full understanding of the KS2 English Curriculum.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• English at all key Stages.

Examination boards taught:

• EDUQAS at GCSE
• OCR at A Level

School:
Roundwood Park School

Current Role:
Head of KS3 & 5 French

About Me:

I have been teaching MFL for over 18 years and have been working at Roundwood Park School as co-lead for French since 2016. Prior to this I worked at Verulam school for 14 years; during which time, I held several posts of responsibility within the MFL faculty, including Head of Languages, as well as working as part of the Sixth Form leadership team for 3 years.

As a strong and experienced classroom teacher, I enjoy seeing my students develop their knowledge and love of languages. However, I am equally motivated by sharing my teaching ideas, resources and experiences with others and enjoy mentoring and supporting colleagues to recognise and build on their strengths.

I am particularly interested in incorporating thinking skills and cross-curricular elements into lessons and have developed an approach to teaching MFL which engages students of all abilities. I have considerable experience and a keen interest in developing Schemes of Learning and Assessment with MFL.

Since joining Roundwood Park School, I have co-ordinated our support for local Primary MFL teachers, providing formal and informal CPD opportunities. I am part of the team that delivers the MFL TSST, working with non-specialist and overseas trained teachers to improve their subject knowledge. It is rewarding to see participants increase in confidence and experience.

My motivation stems from a belief in the importance of sharing good practice and developing knowledge within teaching. I appreciated the support and encouragement I received, at the start of my career, and see an immense value in collaboration.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• MFL

Recent training:

• Coaching for Leaders
• AQA training:
  A Level French – Success with Literature
  A Level French – Getting to grips with grammar
  A Level French – Effective exam preparation

Examination boards taught:

• I have experience working with Edexcel GCSE and AQA A Level exam boards.

School:
St Albans Girls’ School

Current Role:
Curriculum Leader for Spanish

About Me:

I have worked at St Albans Girls’ School since July 2011 and held the position of Curriculum Leader for Spanish since September 2013. Having worked in a range of comprehensive secondary schools as well as the primary and FE sectors, I am a highly experienced MFL practitioner. I am passionate about teaching languages and this is reflected in the consistently engaging and high quality lessons that I deliver.

In my current role I have raised the profile of MFL across the school through organising trips to Spain, cross curricular projects and enrichment opportunities. Numbers at both KS4 and KS5 have increased significantly and our examination results are excellent. For example 62% of the 2019 GCSE cohort achieved grade 7-9 and 79% of the A level cohort achieved a grade A/A*.

I have led on adapting the approach to teaching and assessing languages from Year 7 onwards to meet the demands of the new GCSE. This involved creating Schemes of Learning/Assessments and delivering CPD. New working practices are now firmly established within the department. The implementation of a new working practice enabled me to gain much experience in coaching/mentoring, a role that is challenging but also highly rewarding.

I understand the challenges that language practitioners face in the classroom today and am therefore interested in continuing to create and implement innovative ways to motivate students and raise achievement.

Currently I am working on a project to develop leadership skills among students through the Languages Ambassadors and Languages Prefects programme (Year 8 and Year 12 respectively).

Specialist areas of expertise:

• MFL (Spanish and French from KS2-KS5)
• Monitoring
• Moderation and Assessment
• Examiner for Edexcel
• Organising and leading overseas trips

Other areas of expertise:

• Mentoring

Recent training:

• Prevent and Safeguarding training

Examination boards taught:

• I have experience teaching the Edexcel GCSE and A level courses

School:
The Stockwood Park Academy

Current Role:
Head of Year, Teacher of Humanities and Physical Education

About Me:

I have been teaching for eight years, in four different schools across England. I started my teaching career in Greater Manchester, working in two inner city secondary schools. I have also worked in Hertfordshire and have taken on a range of roles and responsibilities in this time. I am currently studying the Herts Cam Masters in Education, Teaching, Leadership and Learning. My passion in educational pedagogy are around growth mindset, grit, student voice and its correlation with academic excellence.
I have been heavily involved in the development of whole school pastoral structure design and implementation, I have completed projects which are focused on whole school deep dives and the development opportunities which come from it, I have led inset sessions and created staff and student support networks in school. I have significant experience in dealing with external agencies when dealing with pastoral support for students with a wide range of needs.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Leadership and Management
• Geography
• PE
• Pastoral and Academic Progress

Other areas of expertise:

• Mentoring colleagues
• Growth mindset

Recent training:

• Masters in Education

Examination Boards

• AQA Geography
• WJEC/EDUCAS History

School:
Verulam School

Current Role:
Head of Mathematics, Wider Leadership Group, Teaching and Learning Team

About Me:

This is my third year as Head of Maths at Verulam School. Previously, I worked for 6 years at Beaumont School and am lucky to still be able to work closely with my colleagues there through the BeauSandVer Consortium. Verulam School is part of the Alban Academies Trust which means I also get the opportunity to work with Sandringham and Ridgeway Schools.

I am committed to helping others develop, both within my own department, and across the wider school. I am a member of Verulam’s Wider Leadership Group and I play a crucial role in Verulam’s Teaching & Learning team. My motivation for both of these groups is the same as, at their very core, both of these groups have one priority: providing the best possible experience for all students, through the advancement and improvement of staff and school.

In my role as Head of Maths, I have achieved excellent GCSE results over the past two years. I lead my department with a very successful collaborative and collegiate approach, where every member of the team knows they are valued and is encouraged to contribute. This has been a significant factor in accomplishing these results.

I hold a keen interest in teacher training and mentoring, and have had many positive experiences of mentoring through both subject and pastoral routes.

I regularly evaluate my own practice and identify areas for progression, primarily through attendance at network meetings and conferences, and collaboration with other leaders. I aim to keep up to date with educational trends and ideas through twitter, blogs, and lots and lots of reading!

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Curriculum leadership – Maths.
• Teaching and Learning.

Other areas of expertise:

• Initial Teacher Training.

Recent training:

• Head of Maths Network Meetings – Alban TSA.
• Secondary Maths Conference – Intelligent Practice to Raise Student Achievement.
• Recent reads: Teaching for Mastery (Mark McCourt), When the Adults Change, Everything Changes (Paul Dix).
• In school CPD: Leading and attending twilight T&L sessions.

Examination boards taught:

• Edexcel for GCSE and A Level.
• Edexcel Award in Algebra
• AQA Core Mathematics

School:
The Marlborough Science Academy

Current Role:
Head of Maths, Associate Leader

About Me:

I joined The Marlborough Science Academy in 2015 as Head of Maths, having previously worked as Head of House, Head of KS3 and KS4 Maths at Monk’s Walk School.

In the last four years exam results have significantly improved within the maths faculty with the GCSE C/4+ measure increasing by 23%. I have developed strategies to support revision and outcomes for students and spent a significant amount of time with my team ensuring lessons are planned and well-structured as well as focusing on exam specific questions.

I have introduced a bespoke intervention programme targeting individual students as well as specific programmes for groups of students and with a focus throughout on making sure exam practice is at the forefront of all planning. We use a variety of resources and I lead discussions during faculty time about making best use of the time in lessons and ensuring lessons are well thought out and delivered effectively.

In order to promote student leadership and to engage students from older years I have developed a programme where sixth formers tutor year 11 students, working through targeted revision material created to support the students’ individual learning needs. I also mark for Pearson GCSE so am able to share my knowledge with my faculty.

As maths is a subject many parents are unsure or in some cases anxious about, I have created a “Core subject evening”, which is an opportunity for year 11 students and parents/carers to come into school and to answer exam questions together, with the children teaching their parents and carers how they would answer the question. In order to support parents lower down the school I have run “I always hated maths at school” evenings for year 9 and 7, where parents and carers are able to learn how we teach different topics. Both events have had positive feedback from all involved.

As an outstanding practitioner I have supported staff with their teaching and learning and worked alongside staff from various faculties, as well as leading lesson observations and learning walks and feeding back to staff. I encourage my faculty to work together, and I have managed to create an atmosphere of collaboration which has enabled staff to share good practice and discuss pedagogy for particular year groups.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Curriculum
• Faculty Leadership

Other areas of expertise:

• Lesson observations and learning walks
• Marking GCSE Mathematics (Pearson)
• Revision for GCSE targeted students
• Supporting non-subject specialists

Recent training:

• Getting to grips with A level Statistics
• Post results breakfast briefing, H4L (for Heads of Maths)
• Examiner training (Pearson)

Examination boards taught:

• A level: OCR Mathematics A
• GCSE: Pearson

School:
Leventhorpe School

Current Role:
Deputy Headteacher – Curriculum, Self-Evaluation, Ofsted

About Me:

I have worked at Leventhorpe School for fourteen years as Deputy Head and have been responsible for most areas of leadership in that time. Recently, I have been responsible for teaching and learning, teacher training, self-evaluation, data and curriculum.

I have led the accreditation process and first inspection of a new School Centred Initial Teacher Training provider and so have expertise in this area.

I have been an SLE for five years. I am also an experienced Ofsted Inspector and inspect in both the primary and secondary phases.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• School Self-Evaluation
• Initial Teacher Training

School:
Bishop’s Hatfield Girls’ School, Hatfield

Current Role:
Head of Humanities
Head of Geography
Global Dimension Co-ordinator
Specialist Leader in Education for Geography

About Me:

I am an enthusiastic teacher of over 30 years who leads by example. I have been employed at Bishop’s Hatfield Girls’ School as Head of Geography for 14 years and Head of Humanities for 8 years.  I have been involved in the SLE initiative for 3 years.

I have extensive experience as a coach/mentor for PGCE Geography students and trainees on the Schools Direct programme, as well as NQT colleagues within Humanities. I have worked effectively and supported many colleagues within the teaching profession, both at my current school, in local consortium schools and also wider afield, enabling them to work collaboratively and also share their approaches of best practice with others they lead. A highlight has been the opportunity of working with colleagues in a range of schools to achieve the prestigious Princes’ Teaching Institute award for Geography. I have a wealth of experience in developing and implementing strategies to raise attainment and standards in Geography, including the tracking of underachieving students and putting in place proactive strategies, such as booster sessions, developing more effective differentiated resources and setting up mentoring of students. Teachers involved have found that their own ability to identify and support underachievers has improved.

Since taking on the role of Head of Humanities RAISEonline and IDSR data has put BHGS in the top 3% of schools nationally. My strong leadership and the high expectations I set colleagues within my team have been a contributing factor. I have led successful initiatives to support PP pupils and work to improve their resilience and self-confidence and arranged master classes and workshops for more able students. My teaching and leadership were identified as ‘outstanding’ by OFSTED. I have extensive experience of the assessment of both GCSE and A-Level. I have held the role of Global Dimension Co-ordinator for over 11 years and have run whole school inset as well as supported staff in developing exciting and interactive resources across all subject areas. I have co-ordinated and inspired colleagues to achieve the International Schools Award and have been able to mentor and work collaboratively with teachers in Kenya, Germany, India and Bangladesh. I have planned and run numerous fieldtrips, educational visits and extra-curricular enrichment activities in the UK and in Europe to expand pupil experiences and foster a greater love of learning.

Specialist areas of expertise

• Geography
• Global Dimension
• Mentoring

Other areas of expertise:

• CPD and lesson observation

Recent training:

• Implementing the new GCSE and A-Level AQA specifications
• Princes Teaching Institute Schools Day

Exam boards taught:

• GCSE:  AQA Specification
• A-Level:  AQA Specification

School:
Beaumont School, St Albans

Current Role:
Head of Science

About Me:

I am currently Head of a large Science department at Beaumont school. I have previously held the role of Key Stage 4 coordinator. In previous roles I have been Head of Chemistry, Head of Year and Head of Key Stage 3. I have been teaching for 15 years and have worked in a Boys Grammar school, a mixed independent school as well as Beaumont.

In 2009, I became a Specialist Leader of Education in Behaviour and Attendance and in 2014 was appointed as an SLE for Science in the ATSA.  I have led on a considerable number of whole-school projects, have chaired a learning Improvement team, presented at conferences and Teachmeets on Outstanding Learning, Numeracy in Science, Easy pedagaogy, and been a member of the Beaumont Teaching and Learning Team.  I have also led a number of INSETs for colleagues at Beaumont and other schools ranging from Implementing BLP to Stretch and Challenge in the classroom.

In my SLE role, I have coached colleagues to promoted posts, supported a non-specialist in her first year of teaching Science and set up a Heads of Science network.  My personal interests in Education are teaching and learning and successfully implementing the new Science curriculum.

Specialist areas of expertise

• Science
• Teaching and learning

Other areas of expertise:

• I am an experienced subject mentor and subject knowledge assessor for trainees and am an experienced examiner for GCSE.

Recent training:

• Secondary Science conference
• Secondary curriculum conference

Exam boards taught:

AQA GCSE Trilogy and Chemistry
AQA A-Level Chemistry

School:
Beaumont School, St Albans

Current Role:
Deputy Headteacher with responsibility for curriculum, assessment and school self-evaluation.

About Me:

At Beaumont I have overseen a review of the Key Stage Three curriculum and the initial implementation of a knowledge-rich approach. In doing so I have drawn on my reading of experts like Michael Young, Christine Counsell and Mary Myatt, but have also sought at all stages to lead change through dialogue and to place the subject leader at the heart of the decision making process. The aim has been to ensure that we provide as ambitious a curriculum as possible, establishing a broad entitlement for all learners, while also laying strong foundations for further study in each subject.
I have taken the lead on data and assessment for several years in more than one school, improving systems and sharpening the tools of analysis along the way. As my own understanding of attainment and progress data has developed, I have come to the conclusion that a good deal of work is needed across the system to ensure that assessment is reliable and provides valid judgements about what students know and can do. Most importantly of all, we need to ensure that all assessments flow logically from the curriculum and are based foursquare on what we want students to learn.
In addition to my main areas of specialism, I have read widely on pedagogy, CPD and other educational issues and am convinced that we can achieve better outcomes for students and also reduce teacher workload. The key to this is to make judicious use of research, applying it to the local context, and to be willing to make tough decisions about dropping the practices which may be embedded, but are not supported by the available evidence.
I have been a Specialist Leader of Education since 2012, when I worked at Sir John Lawes School in Harpenden. I have provided support at a variety of schools in the area since then, covering both whole-school and subject-specific matters.

Specialist areas of expertise

• Leadership of Curriculum.
• Assessment.

Other areas of expertise:

• Evidence-informed pedagogy
• School self-evaluation.
• School improvement planning.

Recent training:

• ASCL Curriculum Conference.
• FFT Data Analysis.
• Ofsted Inspection Framework.
• Lots and lots of reading!
• Growth mindsets led by Carol Dweck.
• Assessment without Levels led by The Key.
• Challenge Partners reviewer training.

Exam boards taught:

Edexcel History, GCSE and A-Level

School:
Sandringham School, St.Albans

Current Role:
Associate Assistant Headteacher and Director of Alban Teaching School Alliance
Responsibilities: Strategic work of the Teaching Alliance, Staff Professional Learning and Teaching Learning conference design, EPQ programme, line management of the arts and theatre.

About Me:

I took responsibility for all professional Learning at the Alban Teaching School Alliance for four years before moving up to Director of the organisation.  The nature of my work has resulted in the liaison with over forty different schools in both the alliance and beyond; ensuring the ATSA offers a broad professional provision that both meets the needs of schools and responds to external demands within the profession.  I work to seek grant funding projects to enhance teacher retention and development.  Training experience includes development for middle leaders, working with staff to improve their effectiveness in the classroom and supporting aspiring senior leaders.  I am a lead facilitator for the Olevi Effective Teacher Programme and the Outstanding Teaching Assistant Programme.  As part of the ATSA team I can collaborate with schools to ensure the correct professional learning opportunities are available and also design bespoke professional learning packages to match a school setting.

I have supported schools in a range of ways including middle leadership development, supporting new middle leaders, working with teachers to improve classroom practice and in raising accountability for tracking and systems as a middle leader.  I have led training for whole staff and middle leaders on a range of topics including setting a vision, strategic planning, managing difficult teams and leading effective meetings. I have also supported a wide range of projects in collaborative arts projects and development of an inspiring music faculty. I have successfully completed a Platinum Artsmark submission for Sandringham School.

With over 20 years’ experience as a music teacher and head of faculty, before moving into school leadership.  I have significant expertise in the line management of all arts subjects and I can offer support in the development of a vibrant arts provision and improved uptake in schools.  I have completed two full Artsmark applications, including the acquisition of Platinum status and I have established a vibrant Arts Award programme at the school.  I have supported schools in setting up new art provisions, preparing for Ofsted and setting up meaningful schemes of learning.  I was also the lead trainer in Music for all Hertfordshire NQT teachers for a number of years.

Specialist areas of expertise

• Middle leadership.
• Professional learning.
• Supporting outstanding T&L.
• Observation mentor for ITT and NQT training.

Other areas of expertise:

• Music and the Arts
• EPQ
• Support colleagues in improvement classroom practice, management of teams.

Recent training:

• National Teaching Schools Summit 2016
• Recently qualified as facilitator for Olevi OTAP

Exam boards taught:

AQA GCSE, Edexcel A-Level

School:
Monks Walk School, Welwyn

Current Role:
Head of Year. PE teacher with experience teaching A level, GCSE and BTEC.  Also teacher of Science to GCSE level.

About Me:

I have worked at Monks Walk School since September 2017 as a Head of Year. I am a PE teacher with experience teaching A level, GCSE and BTEC, however I also teach Science to GCSE level. Prior to my current school, I worked at Barnwell School, Stevenage, progressing from the position of PE teacher in 2013 to Assistant head of year in 2014, to Pupil Premium Lead in 2016. During this time I also worked within the Teaching and Learning team, and as the School Sports Coordinator for primary schools in the local area.

During my time at Barnwell School, I led a TLDW project through the HertsCam to investigate the factors impacting disadvantaged students’ attendance and punctuality to school, this led to the creation of a breakfast club to support students in engaging with registration time. The focus of my work as part of the teaching and learning team was targeted at supporting staff in a positive and honest way. My underpinning principal is that teachers are experts, and that the greatest resource for school improvement is sharing good practice between colleagues.

In 2017 I graduated with an MEd in leading Teaching and Learning from the University of Hertfordshire. My master’s project was published as a chapter of ‘Teachers as Agents of Change’ (2018) and demonstrated the impact of empowering teachers to lead strategies to improve disadvantaged students’ outcomes. I was able to embed a new structure within the school, a PP rep from each department, meeting to improve the provision for the most vulnerable in school. I have continued with this model of sharing good practice in 2019, aiding trainee PE teachers in their professional development.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Middle leadership
• Pastoral
• Teaching and Learning

Recent training:

• SLE (2019)
• MEd Leading Teaching & Learning (2017)

Examination boards taught:

• Edexcel A level PE
• Edexcel GCSE PE
• Edexcel Combined Science
• BTEC Technical Award in Sport, Activity and Fitness
• BTEC First Award in Sport

School:
Samuel Ryder Academy, St Albans

Current Role:
Head of Mathematics

About Me:

In recognising the challenges facing our young people in response to the increased rigour of the revised GCSE curriculum, I am keen to ensure all students begin their study with robust mathematical foundations. As a mathematics teacher, I have consistently delivered outstanding student outcomes based upon numerous benchmarks. As Head of mathematics, I have developed a high performing team achieving student progress far above the National Average.

As Head of mathematics, I have utilised a coaching approach: recognising and building on areas of strength alongside identifying and developing areas of weakness in a collaborative manner, to develop the efficacy and autonomy of colleagues in a rapid and sustainable manner. This has resulted in student progress substantially exceeding National expectations.

As Head of mathematics for students aged 4-19 in addition to delivering a programme of mathematical enhancement and enrichment at a partner Primary School, I have experience of mathematics teaching and learning across the full spectrum of age ranges and prior attainment levels. This work builds upon earlier success with a project through the National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics.

I have an intrinsic desire to share my passion for mathematics with all students and colleagues. I believe everyone has an innate ability as a competent mathematician; it is our role and responsibility as teachers, to nurture and develop this ability over a number of years. Through personalised support and effective coaching, I am temperamentally optimistic all classroom leaders can develop the skills necessary to realise the mathematical potential of all students.

Head of mathematics / SLE
Samuel Ryder Academy (All-Through Academy, St Albans) September 2014-Present

Additional Responsibilities: Head of Year, Mathematics Across the Curriculum Coordinator, Head of Student Leadership, Primary/Secondary Phase mathematics link, Primary-Phase enrichment delivery at partner Primary academy, Secondary-Phase learning-review support at partner Secondary academy, SLE support at local Secondary school

Teacher of Mathematics
Icknield High School (Secondary School, Luton) September 2013-August 2014

Additional Responsibilities: Numeracy Across the Curriculum Coordinator, School lead for Hungary for Calculation Project (NCETM)

Edexcel GCSE marker May 2016-Present

GCSE – Edexcel
A Level – Edexcel

Specialist Areas of expertise: 

• Secondary Mathematics

Other areas of expertise:

• KS2-3 Transition
• Behaviour Management

Training recently attended:

• Coaching Skills for Leaders
• Maths No Problem Teaching – Yeap Ban Har
• Getting to grips with A-Level Statistics
• Strategies to support raising achievement across KS3, 4 & 5

School:
Simon Balle All-through School, Hertford

Current Role:
Head of English Department, with a team of 9 teachers and 3 dedicated subject TAs

About Me:

I am an experienced teacher who has been in the profession since 1985. I have taught English at Simon Balle All-through School for 12 years. Prior to that I taught English and Drama at St Mary’s High School, Cheshunt. I have had experience of Second in Department and Acting Head of Department roles. Currently, I am Head of the English Department.

I am skilled at curriculum development: a current priority is building richness and variety into the curriculum to provide robust subject knowledge, development of skills, and subject engagement. In common with many schools, AQA is the exam board we we study and I have been an examiner for English Language 8700/1 for two years.

Through my work with Osiris Outstanding Teaching Intervention, I have developed a keen interest in ways classroom practice can be adapted to increase levels of challenge, engagement and impact.

I line-manage the departmental ASAs, working closely with them to ensure vulnerable students have best targeted provision in all key stages.  I have led development of different forms of intervention to ensure that teaching methods are effective and have sustainable impact.

My areas of interest and expertise include:

• Improving the learning environment to facilitate engagement and progress
• Effective use of iPads and other digital technology in English,
• Behaviour for Learning to ensure engagement and progress
• Whole school literacy, with an emphasis on written accuracy and key terminology
• Transition from KS2 to KS3
• Challenging high attaining students
• Improving progress and engagement in reading, including use of the library and effective deployment of ‘Accelerated Reader’
• Standardisation and moderation at all key stages
• Creative writing, including
• Promoting cultural capital with disadvantaged students

Using feedback effectively to maximise impact and progress

Specialist areas of expertise

• English

Other areas of expertise:

• Drama

Recent training:

• AQA Whole School Literacy
• OSIRIS Education ‘Outstanding Teacher’ Intervention’
• Leadership East NPQML Level 1

Exam boards taught:

AQA

School:
Roundwood Park School, Harpenden

Current Role:
Head of MFL
Professional Coach

About Me:

I have been teaching MFL for 10 years and currently lead the MFL faculty at Roundwood Park School.  My lessons are recognised as outstanding and students are enthused by my creative and innovative teaching.

I am a Subject Mentor for MFL trainee teachers and I also enjoy working with more experienced colleagues to help them recognise and build on their strengths.  I have been a Professional Coach since 2011 and run the Coaching for Leaders training programme for the Alban TSA.

Recently I have been working with other SLE colleagues within the TSA to develop the languages subject enhancement course for teachers, a programme supported by the National College. This TSST course is now being successfully delivered by us as a team.

I have set up and developed a strong support network for PMFL colleagues in the area and lead training sessions to allow a smooth transition from KS2 to KS3 French.  I see the value in networking and creating support structures between schools.

I have experience working with Edexcel GCSE and AQA A Level exam boards.

Specialist areas of expertise

• MFL strategies for primary and secondary colleagues
• Training Year 9 pupils as language leaders.

Other areas of expertise:

• Leading a team
• KS2-KS3 transition
• Coaching

Recent training:

• Carol Dweck on Mindset
• DfE training on setting up a TSST course

Exam boards taught:

Edexcel GCSE, AQA A-Level

School:
The Ridgeway, Welwyn Garden City

Current Role:
Assistant Headteacher – Director of Mathematics

About Me:

I have been working at The Ridgeway since January 2020 and prior to this I worked at The Priory School in Hitchin from 2005. I was Head of Mathematics for five years before becoming a Lead Practitioner in 2013. I have been an SLE since 2016 and am currently working jointly with North Herts Teaching Alliance.
I have previously worked closely with the University of Hertfordshire, as a mentor for PGCE and GTP students, and quality assuring the work completed by mentors in other schools.
My previous role was based around teaching and learning with a focus on behaviour. Part of this involves supporting teachers with their classroom behaviour management and delivering CPD to whole staff or smaller groups offering practical strategies for the classroom. I have also been sent to support a failing school and worked with colleagues from other schools who need support in moving to outstanding teaching.
In 2017 I was seconded to Stevenage ESC to support my understanding and develop my skills with students who have behavioural barriers to learning.

Specialist areas of expertise

• Mathematics (support for HoD)
• Teaching and Learning
• Behaviour for learning and rewards systems
• High/Low ability teaching
• Support for those new to teaching
  

School:
Sir John Lawes School

Current Role:
Head of Art Faculty

About Me:

I have worked at Sir John Lawes School since 1994, before that I taught in Sheffield. Experience of teaching Media Studies, IT and Technology alongside Art and Design have given me a broad base to draw on and a belief that the visual creative process is not limited to a small set of materials or approaches. I believe that student personal response through Art is crucial, this has informed our teaching across the Faculty, particularly around GCSE and A Level with individual sustained projects and outcomes. As HOF and Second in Department I developed our A Level Curriculum to include A Levels in Graphics and Photography alongside Art and Textiles, embracing digital technology alongside more traditional approaches to both subjects. I have a long relationship with Photoshop and other digital manipulation software, as a creation and editing tool for Art, Graphics and Photography. As an early embracer of the internet as a forum, I am a strong believer in the transparent classroom, using digital platforms to share student work as well as a way of gathering information.

Teaching at all key stages has meant I have extensive experience of facilitating students working on sculpture of all scales, from the macro to the monumental, print making, digital media and photography alongside the traditional fine art media. Art lessons are experience or skill orientated, rather than about students being guided towards a carefully defined outcome. Students experience this first at KS3 and then again at GCSE and A Level when outcomes are dictated by the line of enquiry rather than automatically leading to one pre-defined media or process. I have also been heavily involved in Teacher training as a subject mentor through our Teaching School status.

Specialist areas of expertise:

Art and Design, Photography and Graphics

School:
Sandringham School

Current Role:
Director of Learning: Computer Science
Hub Leader and Master Teacher for Computing at Schools

About Me:

In my current role as Director of Learning: Computer Science at Sandringham School, and whilst working at Roundwood Park school, I have worked with a number of Primary and Secondary staff and schools in leading CPD opportunities; working to design curriculum models for individual schools, supporting staff in enhancing their subject knowledge and most recently, proposed ideas surrounding assessment without levels within Computer Science.

During and since my degree level studies I have undertaken research surrounding Computing within education across the North West of England and Hertfordshire; I later used findings from this to deliver CPD opportunities within this region as well as a road show in the Channel Islands and other events in Hertfordshire.

I am a practitioner who never settles for anything less than the upmost excellence in all that I do. This is something that has informed my leadership style, I am someone who is motivated to continual improvement, always seeking out the next opportunity and trying to make what may seem impossible, very much reality.

A key motivator for me surrounds the principles of outcomes. Whether through my leadership I am shaping a new initiative or overcoming a small hurdle, my ultimate goal is to improve outcomes for each individual student it will impact upon, as well as the wider school or educational community. As an advocate of continual learning and professional development myself, I thoroughly enjoy helping and sharing insights with others in developing areas of their own practice, subject knowledge and other areas of difficulty.

I have a firm belief that any project, training or initiative that I offer or take part within needs to be fulfilling in the first instance, provide clear guidance and motivation to stimulate a change, but most importantly have maximum impact upon student outcomes and wellbeing.

Specialist areas of expertise

• Computer Science Subject Knowledge
• Curriculum Design and Pathways
• Securing Student Success at KS4 and KS5
• Blended Learning
• Assessment Without Levels
• Flipped Learning

Other areas of expertise:

• Level 2 Google Certified Educator

Recent training:

• SLE training

Exam boards taught:

I currently deliver OCR GCSE and A Level Computer Science. I am also currently work as a Specialist Examiner for these qualifications

School:
St Albans Girls’ School

Current Role:
Curriculum Leader of English

About Me:

Being originally from Newfoundland, Canada, I trained in Eastern Canada in 2010 and began my teaching career in Essex in 2011. Since then, I have taught in a range of mixed schools in a variety of contexts. I started at St Albans Girl’s School in 2014 and am currently Curriculum Leader for English.

Outside of the school context, I have been an examiner for AQA English Literature and English Language for over 4 years. I am also a Consultant Pathway Tutor for TES Institute and have been since 2017. As part of this role I deliver the Subject Knowledge Enhancement course, supporting teachers online through their development of subject knowledge prior to, or at the beginning, of their teaching career.

In 2017 I had the opportunity to deliver the LRTT (Limited Resource Teacher Training) course to teachers in several schools in and around the Siem Reap area of Cambodia which has afforded me great insight into international development and working in unique contexts in a wide range of scenarios. This has furthered developed my understanding of how to plan and organise CPD but also increased my knowledge of teaching EAL students as well.

I strongly believe in the Department for Education aim that “every child and young person can access high-quality provision, achieving to the best of their ability regardless of location, prior attainment and background.” I also believe that all teachers and leaders can be successful when the right support and strategies are put into place at the right time and I thoroughly enjoy sharing my knowledge and experience. In my line management role, I regularly coach and support members of staff and feel strongly that collaboration is the key to developing a strong team as well as balancing the ever important element of wellbeing. I believe firmly in lifelong learning and the continuation of developing subject knowledge in the ever changing world around us.

I feel grateful for the many experiences that I have been afforded at my current school to develop professionally, and wish to extend this knowledge and experience to others, with the aim of working collaboratively and supportively across the county to build sustainable and positive changes, while also building strong working relationships with local schools.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Middle Leadership
• English

Other areas of expertise:

• Whole-school Literacy

Recent training:

• EIF overview session (2020 Ofsted)
• SLE Core training
• AQA Examiner training for both English Literature and Language

Examination Boards Taught:

• AQA GCSE English Language and Literature
• OCR A Level English Literature

School:
Samuel Ryder Academy

Current Role:

• Teacher of Mathematics
• Head of Year 9
• Apple Teacher
• Mathematics across the curriculum
• NQT Mentor
• Jedi Teacher

About Me:

Being recognised as consistently delivering outstanding teaching and learning, I am proficient in dividing my time between this and my pastoral responsibilities. Embarking on my third year as a Head of Year, I lead 9 members of the year group team who support my vision for the year group. Utilising a coaching and collaborative approach and recognising and building on areas of strength alongside identifying and developing areas that require improvement, I have rapidly and sustainably developed the efficacy and autonomy of colleagues.

As an Apple Teacher I am at the forefront of successfully implementing the use of new technologies across the school. Empowering and inspiring colleagues with knowledge, information and training in order to embed exciting new initiatives is how we are implementing change. I was the first member of staff to lead a training session on an exciting new app; following this, I deliver CPD sessions, lead discussions at teacher conferences and work with external agencies to develop my practice utilising new technologies.

In recognising the challenges facing our young people in response to the increased rigour of the revised GCSE curriculum, I am keen to ensure all students begin their study with robust mathematical foundations. Leading Mathematics across the Curriculum has given me the opportunity to work closely with other departments within my school. Improving fluency and multiplicative reasoning is a crucial factor for success in the revised KS2 and GCSE curriculum. As such I believe passionately in the value of consistency throughout all curriculums, wherever maths used. The initiatives I am leading, are equipping students with numeracy skills, which are essential to ensure young people are successful with their contributions to society.

I believe there must be a focus on each teacher taking responsibility of his or her own professional development – and this is something I promote, as well as the notion that leadership starts with the individual at classroom level.

I am an enthusiastic mathematician with a thirst for knowledge and a passion for teaching and learning, who has an intrinsic desire to share this passion with all students and colleagues.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Secondary Mathematics
• Pastoral system/Head of year

Other areas of expertise:

• Behaviour management
• KS2-3 transition
• NQT and student mentoring

Recent training:

• Effective Middle leadership
• Metacognition and Sensory Overload
• STEPs

Teaching A-Level Statistics

Examination boards taught:

• Edexcel

School:
Sandringham School, St Albans

Current Role:
Head of KS5 Chemistry and a member of Sandringham’s Professional learning team.

About Me:

I have been at Sandringham School, St. Albans since 2000.   I have taught all science subjects to GCSE and A’ level Chemistry. I began my career in Tring school where I held the position of deputy Head of House for 2 terms and Head of House for 1 term. This was the only pastoral system in the school. I then moved to Rickmansworth School to be the Head of Chemistry. This gave me full responsibility for the GCSE Chemistry course and results and the A’ level course and results. After 3 years I also held the position of deputy Head of Year 11 continuing my pastoral experience. I was Head of Chemistry when the changes were made to AS levels and A2 level. This was a huge change at the time and required extensive planning and liaising with colleagues. I then took a career break before returning to teach at Sandringham school. In my previous role as Acting Head of Chemistry I led the department through the current changes from AS and A2 back to the linear course.

My interest is in making science accessible to all and helping all student’s progress to their full potential. I thoroughly enjoy my subject and know that my passion is seen by my students and others. I have been involved with a Chemistry show for the last 7 years and this is aimed at Year 6 students from local primary schools to engage them in the wonder of science through a variety of different experiments. I  have worked with other colleagues in developing the school’s ReAct policy, this looks at structured feedback to help students become more independent through creating tasks for them to complete that will improve their work.

Specialist areas of expertise

• Science teacher.

Other areas of expertise:

• Positions I have held include Head of House, deputy head of House, Head of Chemistry, Deputy Head of Year 11 and Acting Head of Chemistry.
• I have experience in Science and pastoral.
• As part of my PLT role I work with others to develop the learning of students and staff.

Recent training:

• SLE training

Exam boards taught:

AQA GCSE Science and AQA A’ level Chemistry

School:
St Albans Girls’ School

Current Role:
Curriculum Leader of History, Teacher of History and Politics

About Me:

I began my teaching career in Oxfordshire, before moving to St Albans Girls’ School where I am Curriculum Leader of History. I have worked in a variety of both mixed and single sex schools, teaching across the 11-18 age range.

I am highly passionate about the importance of History for every child’s education and have a firm commitment to raising standards of teaching and learning. As a classroom practitioner, I focus on creating a highly positive learning environment where students feel confident, enthused and engaged in their learning. As Curriculum Leader, I am convinced of the essential nature of collaboration and the sharing of good practice amongst colleagues and this is something I have fostered within my own department. Not only is this highly beneficial for staff in terms of workload and wellbeing, but it is also crucial in ensuring consistent standards and strong outcomes for all students.

I am committed to the continuous cycle of reflection and improvement within the department and have focussed, in particular, on making best use of KS3 to support students in their journey to KS4 and 5. I have also focussed on the explicit teaching of exam skills and strategies to all students, as a means to improve confidence and outcomes at GCSE and A Level and on strategies for regular knowledge retrieval, through use of the Show My Homework quiz function and a home learning revision schedule in year 11.

I have also been an Olevi faciliator, since 2015, for the Improving Teacher Programme and Outstanding Teacher Programme, including the ‘Power of Coaching’ element. I have contributed to the development of teaching and learning at STAGS, in a variety of ways, such as through delivering training to other staff and by developing the use of student ‘Learning Ambassadors’ across the school. Throughout my career, I have supported the professional development of colleagues, including PGCE students, NQTS and middle leaders.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• History (teaching and middle leadership)

Other areas of expertise:

• Coaching – Olevi facilitator for the ‘Power of Coaching’ element of the Outstanding Teacher Programme

Recent training:

• Olevi Facilitator Refresher 2019
• Olevi Power of Coaching – Train the Trainers 2018
• Effective Middle Leadership 2017
• AQA A level Network Event 2019
• AQA A Level feedback on component 1 and 2 2019
• Edexel GCSE History Network Event 2019
• Edexel A Level Politics feedback on Summer exam 2019

Examination boards taught:

• Edexel GCSE History
• AQA A Level History

School:
Sir John Lawes, Harpenden

Current Role:
Assistant Head of Science

About Me:

I have taught Science at Sir John Lawes since 2012 and am a Biology specialist, although I am experienced in teaching all three Sciences to Key Stage 4. As Assistant Head of Science I run our Biology A level course and have overseen its successful transition to the new system of terminal examinations and practical endorsement. I am also responsible for Key Stage 3 Science and have been working to develop the links between Key Stages 3 and 4 so that students of all abilities are effectively prepared for the new linear GCSE courses. I am interested in developing strategies to continually improve Science teaching and learning without adding to staff workload, and in the effective use of data to support progress in the classroom.

In 2014 I carried out a TLDW project through the HertsCam Network looking at differentiation strategies in Sixth Form teaching, and in 2017 I graduated with an MEd in Leading Teaching and Learning from the University of Hertfordshire, taught by HertsCam. My Masters project was based on developing teaching strategies to help students improve their problem-solving skills, which has had a positive impact on teaching and learning and has also led on to developments in approaches to student wellbeing. Through these experiences I have come to appreciate the value of collaboration between teachers to develop solutions that are effective and relevant to their own context and to that of their school, and the potential within schools and departments to improve themselves and to sustain these improvements.

I am also a Head of House at Sir John Lawes, and enjoy the opportunity this provides to engage a wide range of students in competitions, teamwork and activities beyond their academic experiences.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Science Teaching & Learning

Recent training:

• SLE (2018)
• MEd Leading Teaching & Learning (2017)

Courses taught:

• OCR GCSE 21st Century Science – Combined Science, Biology
• OCR A level Biology A

School:
Sandringham School

Current Role:
Director of Learning: Science

About Me:

I have been at Sandringham since 2015, initially as ADoL and KS4 Coordinator, before progressing to Head of Faculty. In my role I line manage a faculty of 19 teaching staff and 6 technicians, with certain members of the team having specific responsibilities. Consequently, I need to have an understanding of all aspects of the curriculum, for all subjects and at all Key Stages.

I started my career at St Mary’s Catholic School in Bishop’s Stortford, before moving to Ruislip High School. I was at Ruislip for three years and it was here where I started to take on leadership roles, both subject and pastoral. I ultimately decided to progress along a subject leadership route when I moved to Sandringham. All three schools I have worked in provided different environments, students and challenges, which I feel have shaped me into the professional I am today.

The majority of my recent work has been around developing a robust science curriculum which aims to achieve optimal progress for all of our students, whilst fostering a passion for learning. My hope is that this is achieved through excellent classroom teaching, suitable and timely assessment and a key understanding of scientific principles. I also want our students to feel supported in their study and appreciate that it is a collaborative journey.

I strongly believe in ensuring everything we do as teachers is to the benefit of our students and I think it is vital that any procedures we implement follow this philosophy. I also feel that this profession hinges on relationships and the more we know about students and staff, the better placed we are to support them, but also harness their potential.

Throughout my career I have been involved in numerous whole school working parties such as; assessment, workload and well being. I have also organised whole school STEM projects.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Science Teaching & Learning
• Science Curriculum

Other areas of expertise:

• Middle Leadership
• Student data
• Classroom climate

Examination boards taught:

• AQA GCSE
• AQA A-level Biology

School:
Nicholas Breakspear Catholic School

Current Role:
Assistant Headteacher- Teaching & Learning
Head of Business Studies

About Me:

I have been working at Nicholas Breakspear Catholic School for two years. Within my role as Assistant Headteacher, my primary focus has been to raise the quality and standards within teaching and learning. This has included providing support for/monitoring teaching and learning across the school, the organisation and delivery of whole staff CPD/INSET, CPD for trainees and NQTs and mentoring of trainees. Much of this includes working closely with HODS in order to ascertain and support department specific needs. Literacy has also been a key focus this year and I have been the lead on key literacy initiatives within the school.

I have worked as a Head of Department across three schools, all varying in their cohort, courses and school ethos; within these I have managed departments of two, up to thirteen colleagues. During my time as a HOD, I have been instrumental in turning around failing departments within whilst in post and increasing uptake at both GCSE and A Level. This has been supported by excellent results at GCSE and A Level. A key area of interest is behaviour for learning and I feel that the success of the departments I have led has been underpinned by effective behaviour for learning.

I have taught Business Studies at GCSE and A Level as well as Economics at GCSE and AS Level.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Behaviour for Learning
• Leading a department (focus on Business & Economics)

Other areas of expertise:

• Teaching & Learning
• Mentoring NQTS and Trainee teachers

Recent training:

• AQA Business Studies

Examination boards taught:

• A – Level: AQA Business Studies 7131/2
• GCSE Edexcel Business Studies 9-1

School:
Mandeville Primary School

Current Role:
Year 6 Class Teacher, Oracy Lead

About Me:

I have been teaching at Mandeville Primary School since September 2018. I was lead teacher in year 5 and I am now currently teaching in year 6 as a whole school Oracy lead. It is an exciting project working with School21 in East London that gets children to ‘learn to talk’ and ‘learn through talk’. Through regular Teach Meets, the high expectations within Mandeville have had a positive impact on both pupils and the staff across all areas of the curriculum.

My teaching experience over the past 14 years has been diverse. I have taught in the North of England and London, as well as having international teaching experience in Dubai in a 7-form entry school. I have taught in both the state sector in Key Stage 1 and 2, and also in the private sector, into Key Stage 3. I was previously a School Improvement Lead, introducing and embedding the International Primary Curriculum in two schools.

By collaborating and involving my colleagues in the process, we created a shared language amongst staff and pupils; leading to a purposeful learning culture. Through facilitation of many INSETS, assemblies and professional training, I developed a rigorous curriculum where staff was motivated and inspired because of clear action plans and shared goals. I would regularly share teaching ideas and practical assessment strategies that were implemented across the school, providing consistency within the classrooms and confidence amongst staff to start building on those seeds of information.

My personal interests lie in supporting others through team teaching, coaching and facilitating INSETS. I like to look at the big picture and decipher targeted learning goals to enhance the function of a team with a collaborative approach.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• NQT support/mentoring
• Facilitating INSETS
• Introducing and Embedding a curriculum

Recent training:

• SPIRAL Partnership Middle Leaders Training
• SPIRAL Partnership on going CPD training
• Voice21 Oracy Project

School:
Sir John Lawes

Current Role:
Head of Computing & Lead Practitioner, GCSE Assistant Examiner (OCR), Course Facilitator for the National Centre for Computing Education (NCCE)

About Me:

I have worked at Sir John Lawes since 2008-9 when I completed the Graduate Teacher Programme at the school, being graded “Outstanding” by the Alban Federation at the end of my training. Following my NQT year I became Assistant Head of ICT & Business, and subsequently took on leadership of the Computing department when the faculty was restructured. Whilst I trained in the time of the old ICT curriculum, my Distinction in MSc Computer Science ensured that I was well-placed to make the transition to the new Computing curriculum and I have embraced the teaching of this subject from Key Stage 3 to 5. I gained our school the title of “Computing at School Lead School”, which we held until these were replaced by NCCE hub schools in 2019.

The task of switching from the ICT curriculum to the Computing curriculum was a challenging one but I have effectively supported my own team through this change and have also supported colleagues more widely by running NQT training each year for Herts for Learning, running CPD for the Alban TSA, facilitating courses for the NCCE, and assisting colleagues across the Scholars Academy Trust in my role as Lead Practitioner.

I have first-hand experience of the challenges faced by Computing departments in delivering the new curriculum, and have supported trainee, unqualified and non-specialist teachers to deliver the Computing curriculum to a high standard. My department consistently achieves excellent results at both GCSE and A Level. I have a firm grasp of cognitive psychology and how students learn and this, alongside my role as Assistant Examiner for OCR, has given me a strong understanding of how to prepare students effectively for their final exams. I led a popular session on this at the NCCE conference at the University of Hertfordshire in Summer 2019.

I am passionate about my subject and about teaching in general and am always seeking ways to develop my own teaching practice. Recent educational reads include “Understanding how we learn” by Dr Yana Weinstein and Dr Megan Sumeracki, and “How to Explain Absolutely Anything to Absolutely Anyone” by Andy Tharby.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Computer Science

Other areas of expertise:

• ICT
• New technologies
• Evidence-informed pedagogy

Recent training:

• Gateway to coding: Python essentials (Open University online course)
• OCR teacher network event: J277 Computer Science specification
• NCCE facilitator training
• Leading whole school mental health and wellbeing
• OCR standardisation meeting (GCSE Computer Science)
• Gretchen Rubin’s “Four Tendencies” online course

Examination boards taught:

• OCR GCSE and A Level Computer Science
• Outside of school I tutor students for the AQA GCSE in Computer Science
• I have prior experience of teaching AQA A Level Computing

School:
St Albans Girls’ School

Current Role:
History Teacher and Professional Learning Mentor

About Me:

I have taught history since 1996 and have moved through various roles within the school developing my understanding of teaching beyond my own classroom. I have supported students to achieve their best in lessons and exams as well as colleagues to deliver their most effective classroom techniques. I have been Professional Mentor since 2012 for the Alban Federation and also coordinate our NQT induction at STAGS. I am also an NQT consultant for Herts for Learning and lead the history NQT subject specific training.
My work with the government funded First World War Centenary Battlefields Project saw me appointed as an SLE for World War I education through UCL/IoE in 2015. I have had a focus of working with new or trainee teachers to develop their understanding of how to coordinate a school visit. I have also worked with other SLEs on developing the tour programme to make the most of the battlefield sites as ‘outdoor classrooms’.
As Director of Professional Learning for the Alban TSA I am looking to develop new and exciting courses for colleagues which will enhance their classroom delivery as well as wider aspects of the school experience for students.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• History
• World War I education

Other areas of expertise:

• Teaching and Learning
• ITT and NQT training and induction
• Coaching

Recent training:

• Olevi Outstanding Facilitator and the Power of Coaching

Examination boards taught:

• GCSE Edexcel History (Medicine in Britain, Cold War, Anglo Saxons and Normans and Weimar and Nazi Germany)
• A level AQA History (Wars of the Roses 2B)

School:
St George’s School, Harpenden

Current Role:
Deputy Director of Sixth Form Education and Teacher of Mathematics

About Me:

I have been at St George’s School since September 2014, and divide my time between teaching mathematics (from Year 7 up to Further Maths A Level) and supporting sixth formers with their pathways after school – whether that is UCAS applications, apprenticeships or other. I lead the entire UCAS process for the school, as well as the careers programme for the sixth form. I have previously held positions as Deputy Head of House of 350 students, and Assistant Director of Learning for Mathematics. I studied Mathematics and Statistics at Edinburgh University, and have a PGCE and Masters in Education from Cambridge University. I have done an extensive coaching course, and have a love for KS3 schemes of work, mentoring NQTs, use of technology in the classroom, as well as pastoral work. In my current role I am enjoying exploring the ‘VESPA’ model and incorporating it into our practice and the students’ language, and I truly believe it is the link between pastoral, curriculum, careers and coaching work – all of which are so important.
In my previous roles I was responsible for writing schemes of work & assessments, line managing staff, analysing results and mentoring NQT’s. I have a particular interest in problem solving and open-ended questions to aid meta-cognitive skills – the topic of my Masters thesis. More recently, my interests in mathematics teaching have been technology-led, particularly in light of the new A Level, and I have worked to develop resources to aid students’ use of graphical calculators. I have also led training sessions to staff and students on using graphical calculators, and on using SMART boards to enhance teaching. In my SLE role I have really enjoyed helping to lead the TSST programme for non-specialists, and supporting adults, as well as young people, to feel confident in their maths abilities.
I have taught GCSE Edexcel previously, as well as Edexcel A Level, but I currently teach OCR GCSE, FSMQ, A Level and Further Mathematics A Level and have taught the following modules: Core 1-4, Statistics 1&2, Mechanics 1, Further Pure 1. I am also an experienced examiner for Edexcel Statistics 1. I have a personal interest in staff wellbeing and managing workload – and have recently ‘gone paperless’ – I love exploring new technology and apps to aid teacher workload. I have also led inter-school INSET on “Lazy Teaching Methods”, and have led a series of INSETs to new teachers with a focus on managing time effectively and wellbeing. I have been involved with a project on promoting positive relationships with students, and have led whole school assemblies on International Women’s Day, Time and sexual harrassment and disrespect nobody to name a few.

Specialist areas of expertise

• Mathematics
• Pastoral
• Sixth Form

Other areas of expertise:

• Coaching
• Mentoring

Recent training:

• Post-16 UCAS, Unifrog, Careers, Gatsby
• Aspiring Women Leaders
• Coaching Level 3 course.
• Conference on Pastoral Leadership
• SLE training

Exam boards taught:

Edexcel, OCR

Current Role:
Monk’s Walk School, Welwyn Garden City

Current Role:
Head of Year 9, Teacher of Mathematics

About Me:

I started my career at Barclays Bank, quickly working my way up to a managerial role which included supporting and performance managing seven regional teams, incorporating Heads of Regional Performance, Relationship Managers and Personal Bankers. In the end, my passion for education led to the change in my career. I have found that my experiences at Barclays have been invaluable in the classroom and while working with the 226 students in my year group. This has been particularly evident when addressing challenging behaviour, supporting students in making their GCSE option choices or inspiring A-level pupils as they look to the future. I have always been able to convey the bigger picture to individuals, working hard to ensure students prioritise the attributes and learning required to stretch themselves and succeed.
During my time at Monk’s Walk, I have taken on a range of roles and activities. These have included Key Stage 3 Coordinator, Transition Leader, form tutor and my current role as Head of Year. I have led whole school training for NQTs and acted as a Pastoral Leadership mentor.
As a Head of Year I am directly responsible for ensuring all students receive the best possible academic and pastoral guidance and support, making good to outstanding progress while fulfilling their potential as learners. A key aspect has been working as part of the School’s safeguarding team. Diplomacy and shared working have been vital and I have been a regular part of the Child Protection process.
I am currently directly responsible for the line management of eight form tutors. This has given me the opportunity to be a source of support and guidance for NQTs while mentoring more experienced colleagues to achieve their professional goals.
To support the School’s Heads of Department, I have worked to implement consistent and effective behavioural tools utilising shared best practice in managing student behaviour. This has led to my students achieving a positive attitude to progress and improved engagement from students and parents.
As a person I always strive to take the positives from any situation. In general, I focus on building relationships through two-way communication whether with students, parents or staff. I have worked with a range of different stakeholders including Chat Health and the School Nurses, Young Carers in Herts, Hertfordshire Fire Services LiFe Course, Positive Pathways, Park Outreach and Hearts Desire Limited. The overarching aims of the support are to provide clear routines, manage expectations and reassure that they are in a supportive environment. I strongly believe we need to remember when looking for solutions, one size doesn’t fit all.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Pastoral Leadership

Other areas of expertise:

• Behaviour Management
• Teaching/Pedagogy – Mathematics Foundation Level

School:
Roundwood Park School & Further Maths Support Programme

Current Role:
Leading practitioner in mathematics at Roundwood Park School (2 days a week)
Further Maths Support Programme Area Coordinator for Herts, Luton and Harlow (3 days a week).

About Me:

During 26 years of teaching mathematics full-time at Roundwood Park School, I have been second in department, Advanced Skills teacher (with an outreach role in local KS1 and KS2 schools), professional coach, Specialist Leader in Education and Leading Practitioner (developing teaching and learning briefings and effective lesson planning documentation).

Since September 2014 I have worked for the Further Maths Support Programme for 3 days a week and have supported schools in the area with their KS5 provision. This has involved delivering enrichment sessions at KS4 and 5, and teacher training. I hold the NCETM Level 3 Professional Development Lead Accreditation.

As a professional coach I have coached colleagues at Roundwood Park School and I have been involved in the delivery of the successful training course on coaching for the Alban Teaching School Alliance. In collaboration with Leanne Ungaro I have devised and presented a subject knowledge enhancement course which has now completed its second cycle.

My particular interests centre around the support for students and teachers as they engage in problem solving activities and new curricula at KS4 and KS5. Recent activities include setting up network meetings across the county on the 2017 A level in mathematics and presenting training for the Developing Mechanics Teaching work group set up by the Matrix Mathematics Hub.

Specialist areas of expertise

• Key stage 5 mathematics

Other areas of expertise:

• Coaching
• Teacher training
• KS4 enrichment activities

Recent training:

• FMSP Area Coordinator conferences, Delivering Higher GCSE, Level 3 CP Lead

Exam boards taught:

Edexcel GCSE, OCR A-Level

School:
Furneux Pelham C of E School

Current Role:

• Senior teacher at Furneux Pelham C of E School
• Member of SLT
• English, Art and DT Subject Lead
• EYFS Lead

About Me:

I have worked as a primary teacher in Hertfordshire for 20 years since graduating from Cheltenham and Gloucester College of Higher Education with a 2:1 BEd.

My roles have enabled me to remain in the classroom while developing my career in three schools across the county.  During this time, I worked successfully as an Advanced Skills Teacher for six years. Those I worked with understood that my knowledge and expertise self-reflective and so made the role of mentor or coach possible.   Head teachers and County advisors have requested continued support from me recognising the impact that my work was having.

My time as an AST has given me a wealth of experience in supporting teachers.  To this end, I have also coached in my own school.  My approach and advice is found to be honest but manageable.  A key strength to my leadership in the classroom is the positive and collaborative environment I create. I have worked with pupils to create routines and resources to encourage a love of learning and a clear understanding of what an effective learner looks like.

Staff have become more creative, taking my lead in their own classrooms.  For example, role play areas enjoyed by children from EYFS to Year 6.  Learning walks carried out by staff and advisors judge my classroom environment and management to be outstanding.

My strengths lie in the job I trained to do, although I am heavily involved in senior leadership responsibilities, I am used most effectively by supporting other teachers.  To my own ends, I often find that supporting and working with others makes me more reflective of my own practice.  I am continually learning and adapting.  Despite being judged as an outstanding teacher, I recognise that my work has changed immensely over the years to meet the growing expectations and standards required to deliver exciting and stimulating experiences.    I am highly motivated to try new and adapted initiatives in my own classroom and I enjoy sharing these with colleagues. To see my led agreed practices embedded in the school to keep our teaching up to date is inspiring.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Leadership of continuing professional development (CPD)
• Leadership of curriculum (English including spelling and phonics, Art, DT, Assessment)
• Support to experienced teachers and middle leaders
• Initial teacher training (ITT) and newly qualified teacher (NQT) development
• Behaviour and discipline
• Classroom environment

Other areas of expertise:

• County Moderator for Standards at the end of Year 2.
• School-centred Initial Teacher Training (SCITT)

Recent training:

• Write Here, Right Now – HfL Annual Primary English Conference
• Raising Attainment Through Broadening Vocabulary
• Understanding and analysing your Early Years Foundation Stage data
• KS1 Moderator Training

School:
Simon Balle All-through School, Hertford.

Current Role:
Assistant Headteacher with responsibility for professional development, performance appraisal, leadership development, Coaching and Mentoring, ITT and NQTs. Line management of MFL and Design and Technology. Sociology Lead Teacher.

About Me:

I have taught for over 30 years and held a range of leadership roles in 4 very differing schools, joining Simon Balle All-through School 10 years ago. I started my teaching career in Cheshire as a PE teacher and held a number of pastoral roles during my early years in teaching. When I moved South I took up my second subject of Sociology and developed a keen interest in teaching and learning and the development of professional learning communities which was a key component of my NPQSL. At Simon Balle I was initially appointed as an Assistant Head with responsibility for Teaching and Learning which remains a key area of focus in my latest role, ensuring teachers engage in evidence- based practice to enhance their teaching repertoire in order to achieve the highest possible student outcomes.

During this time I have supported schools to develop leaders, and in particular middle leaders, in a range of ways, including being seconded one day a week to support a school in challenging circumstances.  I have also worked on behalf of a National Academy chain to deliver teaching and learning INSET and leadership coaching.  Recently I have started to deliver the National Award for Middle Leaders on behalf of SSAT across a network of primary and secondary schools.

Coaching and mentoring is a particular personal area of interest and expertise both within my work in schools and beyond. I have led professional development and implemented coaching and mentoring systems in cross-phase educational institutions and for a National Governing Body. I have coached teachers and leaders on a diverse range of issues, provided coaching on interview techniques and have coached and mentored teachers in their transition to leadership roles and as part of their professional development on such qualifications as the NPQSL and NPQML.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Professional Development
• Leadership Development
• Teaching and Learning
• Coaching and Mentoring

Other areas of expertise:

• Professional Mentor for Schools Direct
• NQT Induction Tutor
• Mentor for Chartered Teacher Programme
• School Coaching team lead

Recent training:

• SSAT Reducing workload, Creating time
• SCL Smart steps to reduce teacher workload
• SSAT National Award for Middle Leaders training

Examination boards taught:

• OCR Sociology

School:
Samuel Ryder Academy

Current Role:
Primary Lead in Maths

About Me:

I am currently the Primary Maths Lead at Samuel Ryder Academy. Prior to this I worked as part of the SLT team which gained an outstanding grading from Ofsted in all areas. I am an outstanding and dedicated practitioner and in the many leadership roles I have carried out, I have achieved outstanding results at both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2.

I have 6 years’ experience of leading faculties and teams of staff (including teachers, teaching assistants and additional support staff) and feel that by always remaining in the classroom, as well as leading, I am empathetic to the expectations placed upon teachers, but am able to be proactive in motivating and facilitating others to achieve their own successes.

I have also been involved in providing support for both staff and pupils through focused training, one-to-one mentoring and implementing intervention strategies. In my role as Key Stage Leader, I delivered an INSET to a local secondary school looking at maintaining the high expectations and consistency of subject progression from KS2 to KS3.

Within my role as an SLE at my previous setting, I have led and supported a number of other professionals both in-house, through coaching sessions, and externally through school to school support. I have been able to share my passion and expertise, particularly in maths, but also through ITT support and NQT mentorship to a wide range of school staff. I have developed my coaching skills and been well received by the schools and teachers I have supported.

Specialist areas of expertise:

• Primary Maths – Teaching and Learning
• KS2 Assessment
• Initial Teacher Training
• NQT mentorship

Other areas of expertise:

• Quality Mark (Basic Skills) Leadership
• Year 6-7 transition
• Speech and Language Strategies in mainstream

Recent training:

• SLE Training
• Apple Teacher
• Prevent
• Safeguarding
• Ofsted Inspection Framework