‘Every child deserves a champion—an adult who will never give up on them, who understands the power of connection and insists that they become the best that they can possibly be.’– Rita Pierson

I am the Associate Assistant Vice Principal working within the Teaching and Learning team, where I am responsible for coaching and providing high-quality feedback to teaching staff, as well as supporting the further development of the quality of education at Co-op Academy Swinton.

My career in the education sector began in Primary Education, where I completed a four-year degree, a BA (Hons) in Primary Education at Manchester Metropolitan University. The course provided an in-depth focus on the psychology of teaching and unlocked my potential and ambition to support children both pastorally and academically. While studying, I undertook an English specialism and completed my dissertation on reading interventions, which spurred me to transition to secondary education, where I could focus solely on English—my true passion.

I began my secondary teaching career at an inner-city school in Oldham. I knew within my first week that I was fully invested in secondary education and thrived knowing I was supporting the next generation through their English education. During my five years there, I progressed into a pastoral role where I led Year 7 and the transition process. My previous experience in primary schools allowed me to create a seamless transition process for students, ensuring that from day one, each child’s needs were met.

I remained a Head of Year for three years before beginning to consider a role in the strategic teaching and learning side of education. While I am still passionate about students' pastoral needs, I learnt that with outstanding teaching and learning, students flourish.

In September 2022, I moved to Co-op Academy Swinton as a Second in English, where I progressed to Head of English. It is my honour to now be working for the whole school in this role, and my mission is to champion teachers and students to ensure that pupils leave with not only a well-rounded academic profile but also a strong ambition for their future.