Our Headteachers

As the Headteacher of Drybrook Primary School since September 2021, I am dedicated to developing and supporting the Trust's goals in the Forest of Dean. My career in education has primarily been centered in Gloucester, where I worked in Ofsted outstanding-rated schools, fostering my passion for inclusive, high-performing learning environments.

In addition to my role as Headteacher, I have previously served as an NCETM (National Centre for Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics) Primary Mastery Specialist, working closely with schools across Gloucestershire to provide strategic guidance and promote best teaching practices. As an accredited Professional Development lead, my contributions have also shaped national guidance for the NCETM, further strengthening the Trust's positive impact in the region.

Furthermore, co-founding and speaking at the Research ED SouthWest conference highlights my dedication to professional growth and collaboration. I aim to empower staff and students throughout the Trust to reach their full potential through continuous support and our shared vision of educational excellence.

I have been the head teacher of Forest View Primary School since 2010. Under my leadership, Forest View has evolved from a local authority school under support interventions to a strong single academy trust and subsequently to a member of the Forest of Dean Trust. I have played a crucial role in supporting other schools across the South West to enhance their educational provision in an advisory and executive head capacity. I have an immense passion for the Cinderford community, which the school serves, and I continue to find ways to work for and support this rural community through the work that the school undertakes. I now look forward to supporting the development of the Forest of Dean Trust across all schools, enhancing provision and encouraging collaboration.

As the new Headteacher of Dene Magna school I am drawing together a breadth of educational experiences spanning over two decades. Having grown up in Northern Ireland, I graduated from Cardiff University with a degree in Chemistry and started my teaching career in a challenging Newport school. For the last 15 years I have taught in the Forest of Dean and am committed to the local community, with personal ties through my children's education and residence in the area.

I was part of the Senior Leadership Team for over a decade at a local secondary school and during this time played a key role in moving a school from 'Special Measures' to achieving a 'Good' Ofsted rating in 2021. In this time I saw the school transition through two trusts and have played an active role within the Athelstan Trust as it grew. I spent time seconded part time to their ‘Outstanding’ flagship school to implement behaviour systems and in Pupil Premium monitoring. More recently, I have led cross-trust roles in attendance and safeguarding.

I am a strong advocate for social justice in education, maintaining high standards while being inclusive. I am an Ambassador for Teach First, having been selected as one of six senior leaders in the region to work on improving behaviour through training programs across schools. 

My vision for education is to lead a collaborative and inclusive school environment that fosters the maximum potential and enjoyment of all learners.