I have spent my whole career in heavy engineering, with almost 25 years as a Managing Director. After graduating in Metallurgy, I started work as a steelmaker and then joined a company making large-scale machines for treating liquid steel. I travelled extensively, building machines all over the world. After a period working in Germany, I decided to shift career and joined a Newcastle based engineering company, working in the defence sector. The company primarily designed and built systems to safely defeat land mines and IED's. My senior management role has given me a wide range of skills, including financial management, HR and strategy. After retiring last year, I wanted to use my knowledge and experience to help my local community. I was very pleased to be made Chair of Governors at Broomhill and will do everything I can to help the school be a great place to learn.

With over 25 years of experience in the Early Years sector, I have developed a strong commitment to shaping the foundation of children’s development and supporting families in meaningful ways. My career began with creating childcare opportunities within the local community, followed by working with Action for Children as part of the Sure Start initiative, where I provided essential family support services. These roles allowed me to witness firsthand the transformative impact of quality early childhood education and care on individuals and communities. Driven by a lifelong dedication to the sector, I now balance family life, being mam to three growing boys, with teaching Early Years education in Further Education (F.E.) As someone who has grown up in the local area, I am passionate about ensuring that Broomhill primary school offers the very best opportunities, not only for the families we serve but also for those pursuing careers within this vital industry.

I have been a dedicated educator and leader in primary education since 2005. Before starting my teaching career, I worked as a Civil Engineer across the North East for eight years, which provided me with valuable experience that I have applied to my educational leadership. I began my teaching journey at Ponteland First School, before becoming Deputy Headteacher in Wallsend in 2009. In 2012, I returned to Northumberland to take on the role of Headteacher at Red Row Primary School. During my time here, I have successfully led the school through three Ofsted inspections, consistently achieving a 'Good' rating. I have built a wide network of contacts that enhance the educational experiences and outcomes for our pupils. I am committed to developing a strong team of teachers and teaching assistants, ensuring they have the support and resources they need to thrive. In September 2024, I was approached by the Local Authority to take on a dual role as Executive Head across both Broomhill and Red Row Primary Schools. I previously held a similar position across Red Row and Linton Primary. My leadership is characterised by a commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where every pupil can achieve their potential.

Following my undergraduate degree in law, I decided to complete my P.G.C.E. qualification and pursue a career in teaching. I have worked across a number of settings across the North East, where I have gained invaluable experience in both teaching and leadership positions. Predominantly working in disadvantaged areas has equipped me with a heightened awareness of safeguarding and this is an area in which I offer the governing body a wealth of experience. I have also completed a Masters degree in children's literature, to support my passion for teaching English and developing the curriculum in this area. I have two young children and advocate the importance of a work-life balance for all staff at Broomhill.

I worked within the private and public sector within the fields of Human Resources, Performance Management, Audit and Quality assurance. This included working in the NHS since 1987 initially across the North West before working in the North East since 2007. My early career included teaching at Night School at a Further Education College in Southport on a range of subjects including Business Studies, Banking, Law and Marketing. I also established and managed a Training and Development department within a group of hospitals in East Lancashire. As well as being a Governor at Broomhill Primary School I have also been a Governor at Bedlington Whitley Memorial Primary School since December 2022. Since retiring in 2023 I have supported the Wansbeck Valley Foodbank initially as an Associate Trustee until becoming a Trustee in March 2024. In March 2025 I was appointed Vice Chairman. My main areas of responsibility include safeguarding, human resources, warehousing and procurement.