I am a parent trustee, having become involved with Manor Leas Infant School in September 2023 when my eldest son started at the school.

I have worked with children in a range of settings since 2005 and I am enthusiastic about supporting the wellbeing of children, and ensuring they are safe, happy and have the right support to achieve the best outcomes. It is this that motivated me to become a trustee in December 2023.

I believe that all children have the right to a positive education experience, and becoming a trustee means I have the opportunity to be part of ensuring this for all of the children who attend Manor Leas Infant School.

I work as a senior lecturer at a local university where I train primary school teachers. Prior to this, I worked in primary schools for 20 years and was previously a Safeguarding Lead, Special Educational Needs Coordinator and finally a Head Teacher.

I really enjoy being a trustee as it enables me to keep in touch with what is happening in schools. I also like using my experience and skills to offer support and alternative perspectives to the school to ensure that the children who attend Manor Leas Infants have the best possible chance of success.

I loved Manor Leas Infants from the moment I had my first visit. It is a lovely, warm and welcoming school that I enjoy visiting and being a part of. The children are so friendly and eager to learn.

I am a current Deputy Head Teacher at a local secondary school, having taught in North Hykeham for the past 21 years. I am passionate about ensuring that all young people are provided with the opportunities to lead successful lives, regardless of their background or the path they choose to follow. These opportunities are driven by dedicated, skilful, and conscientious teachers and support staff. As a trustee, I believe I bring valuable experience and an understanding of the current education framework that will allow me to support Manor Leas Infant School in maintaining its position as a place of education in which staff, and consequently, students, thrive.

As a parent of two children currently attending Manor Leas Infant School, I have a strong personal connection to the school community. I chose Manor Leas because it felt like the right balance of a “home from home” alongside a clear focus on education and achievement. Through my experiences, I have seen how the school creates a nurturing environment where children feel supported and motivated to learn, and this is why I wanted to support the school as a trustee.

Professionally, I bring over 20 years of experience in SEND education, and I am currently an Assistant Headteacher at a local Special School. Throughout my career, I have developed a strong commitment to supporting children with a wide range of needs, ensuring that every child has access to meaningful, high-quality learning opportunities. My work has been driven by a belief in inclusive practice, where all learners are valued, supported, and empowered to succeed.

I am passionate about inclusive education that fosters a genuine love of learning for every child. As Gina Davies, a specialist Speech and Language Therapist, states, we must offer an “irresistible invitation to learn.” During my visits to Manor Leas, this ethos is clearly evident in the engaging environments, dedicated staff, and the enthusiasm of the children. I am proud to support the school as a trustee and to contribute to its continued development and success.

My daughter started Reception at Manor Leas Infant School in September 2024 and I became a Parent Trustee in October 2024, being keen to play an active part on the Board.

Professionally, I am a Charity Manager working within Social Welfare Advice services. Not coming from a Primary Education background required a steep learning curve! but I utilise my objectivity and ‘think outside the box’ to ensure that we – parents/carers, staff, trustees and the wider school community – work collaboratively and always in the best interests of our young people.

I believe success is measured by the extent to which our pupils receive an exceptional all-round education, are supported to fulfil their potential, and are healthy, safe and feel happy at school.