I have worked in residential specialist education for 37 years, having held the incredibly rewarding position of Principal of the The William Henry Smith School.

I am hugely motivated & committed to improving the lives of all children & young adults, particularly those facing challenges associated with Social, Emotion & Mental Health. I have a strong & unwavering mantra that all our decisions must be made with children at the forefront of every decision & action, applying our knowledge & understanding of developmental trauma, neuroscience & relational practice for all children, wherever they are supported.

With a community of over 323, over our 3 sites, I am delighted to assume the role of Chief Executive Officer & Executive Principal. Our Children’s Home in Rastrick, a Registered Learning Provision in Elland & the addition of our Sixth Form are exciting developments that provide more children & young adults with specialist care and education, supported by the vital components of health & therapy. Aligning with The Smith Foundation’s ethos 'Becoming the Best You Can Be’ & on the strength of The William Henry Smith School’s reputation, we use our experiences & knowledge to broaden our offer and reach. I maintain the strong belief that we have a duty, responsibility & opportunity to share our experience, knowledge, & ‘expertise’ beyond our organisation; supporting fellow professionals’ journeys.

The school is the lead organisation for Calderdale’s Specialist Cluster & working alongside 3 other specialist schools we are reaching out to over 100 schools across the borough. Our work impacts beyond our local reach & we are proactive regionally and nationally.

I am the Chair of Engage, a national association supporting SEMH school leaders and organisations across the country & I am also involved in the work of NASS (The National Association for Independent & Non-maintained Special Schools) supporting Heads and Principals, coaching & sharing great practice.

I am extremely focused & passionate about movement, exercise & mental health & well-being & the benefits to our Quality of Life. I spend a significant part of the week training, enjoying the challenge & rewards associated with Power Lifting, Olympic Lifting & Kick Boxing. I have completed the National Coal Race, carrying 20kg over a mile of gruelling pace & hills.

I am married with two grown up sons and have recently become a Nana.

I am a strong believer in work-life brilliance; a fulfilment & ease in all parts of life and a quality of life that oozes health, happiness, & growth, learning every day & the mantra that there are no limits to success…everything is possible.