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Early Beginnings: Joining Braunton in 2007 and my first promotion 

My career at Braunton Academy began in September 2007, when I arrived as a newly qualified PE teacher fresh from the University of St Mark & St John (Marjons), Plymouth with a 2nd Class Honours Bachelor of Education Degree and a passion for teaching. I applied for a PE teaching position at what was then Braunton School & Community College. After a successful interview in June, I stepped into my first full‑time teaching role that autumn. 

Just two years into my career in 2009, I successfully applied for the role of 2nd in PE, which was my first formal step into leadership giving me my first taste of shaping curriculum, supporting colleagues, and contributing to the strategic direction of PE at the school. 

A Decade of Impact: Head of PE (2014-2024)

In 2014, I was appointed Head of PE, a role that I would hold for 10 years. In this role I:

• Led the department through curriculum changes, new initiatives, and evolving student needs 
• Oversaw the development of high‑quality teaching and learning
• Strengthened extracurricular sport and participation and relaunched our now thriving sports academy and honours system.
• Built a culture of high expectations and inclusive physical education
• Introduced the new GCSE PE specification and Key stage 3 head, heart and hands assessment. 

My leadership extended beyond PE. During this time where I also: 

• Was appointed as the Academy’s Numeracy Across the Curriculum co-ordinator, supporting whole‑school improvement.
• Was appointed in the role of Senior Teacher and Raising Standards Lead for Key Stage 3, taking on wider responsibilities for student progress and attainment as well as KS3 assessment. 

Stepping Into Senior Leadership: Assistant Vice Principal (2024–Present) 

In 2024, after 17 years of whole school contribution and professional growth and leadership, I successfully applied for and was appointed to the role of Assistant Vice Principal, Inclusion with key whole‑school responsibilities, including: 

• Leading and managing KS3 behaviour
• Overseeing whole‑school attendance
• Contributing to strategic decision‑making across the academy 

To take on this new challenge, I stepped away from my long‑held role as Head of PE. 

Professional Development: A Career Built on Continuous Growth 

My journey has been shaped not only by opportunity but by my commitment to ongoing professional development. Throughout my time at Braunton, I have been fully supported in expanding my skills and qualifications, including: 

• Specialist courses in Physical Education and first aid
• Training in leadership and management
• Professional development in attendance and behaviour
• A two‑year programme culminating in the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL) 

The NPQSL, in particular, reflects my ambition to lead beyond a single department and contribute to whole‑school improvement. It has strengthened my strategic leadership, my ability to drive outcomes, and my readiness for senior roles. 

A Career Defined by Commitment, Growth, and Impact 

From a newly qualified teacher in 2007 to Assistant Vice Principal in 2024, my career at Braunton Academy tells a story of: 

• Consistent progression
• Deep commitment to the school community
• A willingness to take on new challenges
• Strong leadership grounded in experience and professional learning 

My journey reflects how sustained dedication, purposeful development, and a genuine passion for education can shape a meaningful and influential career, one that I am incredibly proud of. I am particularly proud of the impact I have made in leading and managing a highly successful PE department, delivering an exceptional PE curriculum and extra‑curricular and competitive sporting programme, and securing outstanding, sustained GCSE outcomes for all of our PE students. 

I am now excited to bring that same commitment to the Braunton Academy Inclusion team, working hard to positively influence the school’s culture with a strong focus on positive behaviour, attitudes to learning, and high attendance. My aim is to help ensure that we continue to stand out as a leading example in North Devon and across the South West. 

A career shaped by service, growth, and the joy of watching young people thrive has defined my time at Braunton Academy since joining in September 2013. After earlier roles in banking, accounting, and administration, I arrived as an Administrator working closely with both the Careers Lead and the HR Manager. What began as a new chapter soon became a deeply rewarding journey rooted in supporting students, staff, and the wider school community.

Careers and Work Experience

Working alongside the Careers Lead has allowed me to play a part in guiding students toward their next steps after leaving the Academy. From organising careers events to ensuring students have access to clear, practical advice, the role has been both varied and inspiring.

A major part of this work is the administration of the Academy’s work experience programme. I oversee all the necessary health and safety checks and coordinate placements, ensuring every student has a safe and meaningful opportunity. Over the last 12 years, I’ve watched students step into extraordinary placements—from yachting experiences to time at the BBC and even Manchester United. Hearing employers praise our students’ maturity and enthusiasm, and hearing students describe how the experience broadened their horizons, remains one of the most fulfilling aspects of my job.

Year 11 Mock Interviews

Each year, I help organise mock interviews for Year 11 students, timed to support them ahead of their college interviews. These sessions give students a realistic interview experience and help build their confidence. Reading the feedback from both students and interviewers is always uplifting; many describe the process as invaluable preparation for their next steps.

Careers Speed Dating

Another highlight is coordinating the annual Careers Speed Dating event for Years 8, 9, and 10. By liaising with local employers and colleges, we create an engaging opportunity for students to explore a wide range of industries. The event gives them a taste of different career paths and the routes they can take to get there, often sparking new interests and ambitions.

HR Administration

My work with the HR Manager has included supporting personnel processes such as staff absences and recruitment. Ensuring that all staff have the appropriate checks in place is a responsibility I take seriously, as it plays a vital role in safeguarding our students and maintaining the high standards of the Academy.

Website Administration

For the past five years, I have also been responsible for administering the Academy website. This role has allowed me to develop and refine my IT skills, learn new systems, and support the school’s communication with parents, students, and the wider community.

A Decade of Change and Growth

During my time at Braunton Academy, I have seen significant changes—three different Principals, new colleagues joining and others moving on, and major developments to the site itself. The Aspire building, with its new reception and library, and the new English block have transformed the campus and enhanced the learning environment for students.

I’ve also had the opportunity to attend various courses over the years, each helping me grow professionally and contribute more effectively to the Academy.

The Heart of the Job

What I treasure most is watching students grow from nervous Year 7s into confident, capable young adults by the time they reach Year 11. Being part of their journey, even in a behind-the-scenes role, is a privilege that continues to make my work meaningful.

My years at Braunton Academy have been shaped by teamwork, learning, and the joy of supporting young people as they discover who they are and who they want to become.