I began my career as a Registered Nurse for people with learning disabilities. Having taken time out to raise a family, I decided that I wanted to move away from education. I worked at a pre-school initially and also volunteered as a Parent Governor. This then led me to becoming a Teaching Assistant at various schools in West Sussex (including 6 years at Estcots). I love the atmosphere and ethos at Estcots and it is an absolute priviledge to be surrounded by children and adults who are inquisitive and have a love for learning. I decided to take the plunge last year and head back to Uni to complete my PGCE in Primary Teaching. This was the toughest year of my life so far but now, having my own class, I would say it was totally worth it!

I completed a four-year BA Primary Education degree at Chichester University in 2002, having decided to train as a teacher after a long career in social work. My degree in English with Education has supported me in developing a passion for the teaching of English to young children.

Prior to moving to Estcots school I worked for eleven years as a class teacher and leader at a school in Crawley. I believe passionately in a personalised education for every child, I have a holistic approach to working with children and always aim to meet individual needs. This includes building self-esteem and teaching children to value learning. I love working here at Estcots and coming into school each morning is a pleasure.

I have worked in the childcare industry for many years this includes Nursery work where I held a Senco position, pre – schools and school placements.
Before this I worked with adults who have learning difficulties.

Over the years I have gained much knowledge and qualifications such as NVQ level 3 in childcare and development, First Aid, Child protection and British Sign Language.

I have a keen passion to help children and young people to achieve their individual learning goals especially those with special educational needs. This has led me to many certificates In this field and continues to inspire me to learn much more.

I love being a teacher and working with a classroom full of lively and happy children. Every day is different, with its unique mix and laughs, challenges and this is something that makes me love the career I am in.

After spending many years bringing up my children and volunteering at Estcots I made the decision that working with children was for me.

I decided to go back to college and retrain as a Teaching Assistant. I was fortunate to be offered  a position at Estcots School where I could start fulfilling my passion for working with children and achieving my goals.

I currently work in Early Years and absolutely love the daily challenges this brings as well as being part of a fantastic team that is well placed to watch the children learn and grow.