Our People Stories

Leadership in early years education is as much about inspiring others as it is about guiding them. I have had the privilege of leading and managing Early Years across a variety of schools throughout my career, a role I found immensely rewarding. Supporting and collaborating with Early Years Leaders is something I deeply value, as it allows me to contribute to the foundation of quality education. I am passionately committed to ensuring every child receives the best possible start in their educational journey. By providing them with rich opportunities and a nurturing environment, we allow them to grow, develop and flourish to their fullest potential.

In my role leading Early Years across the SDBE MAT, I focus on fostering collaboration, empowering practitioners, and ensuring the highest standards for our youngest learners. This role includes leading and coordinating network meetings, organising and facilitating moderation sessions, and drawing on my expertise as an Early Years OFSTED inspector to support schools in achieving excellence.

Creating a Collaborative Network

One of the most rewarding aspects of my role is facilitating network meetings for EYFS Leads across the trust. These sessions are more than just meetings—they are opportunities to build a professional learning community. Bringing together leads from various schools, we share challenges, develop solutions collaboratively, and celebrate best practice.

Each meeting is structured to address the immediate needs of practitioners while staying forward-focused. Whether it’s navigating changes in statutory guidance, refining classroom strategies, or addressing key developmental milestones, I aim to ensure that every Early Years Lead feels supported and equipped to lead effectively in their own setting.

Organising an Annual Conference

Every March, I organise the annual Early Years conference. This event is an opportunity to bring together teachers, leaders, and experts in the field for a day of inspiration and learning.

The conference’s sessions cover a broad range of topics, developed and carefully chosen based on the needs across the MAT, aiming to develop practitioners skills and knowledge along with their confidence. My goal is to create a program that leaves attendees feeling energised, excited and equipped with actionable strategies to try out in their own settings. It’s a day for reflection, connection, and celebration of the incredible work being done across the trust.

Supporting Rigorous and Fair Assessments

Assessment in early years education is not just about numbers; it’s about understanding each child as a whole. I work closely with Early Years staff across the MAT to moderate assessments in the seven areas of learning. This ensures consistency, fairness, and reliability while also allowing staff to identify and address gaps effectively.

Drawing on OFSTED Expertise

As an Early Years OFSTED inspector, I bring an additional layer of insight to my leadership. This role allows me to remain at the forefront of educational standards and expectations while offering a unique perspective on what excellence looks like in early years settings.

This dual role enables me to guide schools not only in meeting compliance standards but in striving for genuine quality. It’s about helping schools see inspections not as hurdles, but as opportunities to showcase their strengths and identify areas for growth.

Leading with Purpose

Leading early years across the SDBE MAT is a privilege and a responsibility. It’s about creating an environment where staff feel supported, inspired, and capable of delivering the best for their children. Through collaboration, celebration, and rigorous support, I aim to ensure that every practitioner—and every child—can thrive and flourish.

At the heart of my leadership is a belief in the power of early years education to transform lives. Together with the incredible professionals across the MAT, I am committed to building a future where every child has the strongest possible start, supported by passionate and skilled staff who are empowered to lead with confidence and creativity.