Coaching Directory

Welcome to the Shires Multi Academy Trust Coaching Directory

At Shires Multi Academy Trust, we believe that our people are our greatest strength. The success of our schools depends on the growth, wellbeing, and professional fulfilment of every member of staff. That’s why professional development and wellbeing are at the heart of everything we do.

Why Coaching Matters

Coaching is a cornerstone of our approach. We recognise that powerful conversations unlock potential, build confidence, and foster resilience. Through coaching, we create space for reflection, challenge, and support—helping colleagues thrive both professionally and personally.

This directory connects you with skilled coaches across the Trust who are committed to empowering staff through meaningful dialogue. Whether you want to:

  • Develop leadership skills
  • Enhance classroom practice
  • Explore new perspectives

…coaching offers a trusted partnership for growth.

Our Lead Coaches and Their Expertise

Our trained Lead Coaches bring a diverse range of experience and specialist knowledge, including:

  • Teaching and Learning – classroom practice and pedagogy
  • Senior and Middle Leadership – leadership development and strategic thinking
  • Pastoral Care – student wellbeing and safeguarding
  • Special Educational Needs (SEN) – inclusive approaches for all learners
  • Human Resources and Finance – operational and organisational excellence

This breadth of expertise ensures coaching is tailored to your unique needs and aspirations.

How to Book a Coach

Booking is simple:

  1. Browse the directory to find the coach who best matches your needs.
  2. Email your chosen coach directly to arrange an appointment.

Our coaches are ready to support you in your professional journey and wellbeing.

Estelle Bridges : Associate Assistant Headteacher, NBHS

Estelle Bridges

Associate Assistant Headteacher, NBHS

Estelle is an Assistant Headteacher overseeing Curriculum, timetable and the options process., she also works alongside the Deputy Head on Teaching & Learning, QA and CPD. She has previously been a Head of Science of a large department, a rewarding role that came with it's leadership challenges and where she first honed her leadership skills. As she developed her leadership role at North, she focussed on Early Careers Training and ITT students guiding teacher's and students through the earliest pathways of their career as an Induction Tutor and professional mentor. More recently, Estelle has focussed on relaunching the whole school's Teaching & Learning policy with the deputy Head and linking this into the school's CPD cycle so that it is responsive to the needs of the school. She has also relaunched the Quality assurance process to involve Middle Leaders and allowing them a greater opportunity for input into this process. Estelle completed her NPQSL in May 2023 and is a massive believer in empowering other's to achieve their goals.

Louisa Dare : Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), Mental Health Lead, RSS

Louisa Dare

Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), Mental Health Lead, RSS

With a powerful blend of frontline experience and deep-rooted passion, Louisa brings over four years of expertise as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) and Mental Health Lead. She’s been at the heart of safeguarding in school, not only protecting children and young people but also empowering staff to do the same.
Louisa’s impact extends across multiple schools within the Multi-Academy Trust, where she’s been instrumental in helping to shape safeguarding systems, streamlining concern reporting, and embedding best practices that ensure consistency and compliance.
Before stepping into education, Louisa served 18 years as a police officer—an experience that sharpened her skills in investigation, crisis response, and risk assessment. Her background gives her a unique edge: she understands the realities of safeguarding from every angle.
Driven by a genuine commitment to creating safe, supportive environments, Louisa is a trusted coach, a steady presence in times of crisis, and a passionate advocate for vulnerable individuals.

Bec Gordon : Headteacher, WAPS

Bec Gordon

Headteacher, WAPS

Bec Gordon is an experienced headteacher and coach with a deep-seated passion for developing the next generation of educators. She specialises in coaching and mentoring school leaders at all levels to help them navigate the complexities of educational leadership with confidence and vision. 

With experience teaching in a variety of schools across Worcestershire, Birmingham, and Nottinghamshire, Bec brings a wealth of practical, on-the-ground knowledge to her coaching practice 

Through her coaching, Bec aims to help people to: 

  • Define and uphold high academic standards within their schools. 
  • Develop resilient leadership skills to guide their institutions through challenging circumstances. 
  • Create a culture of enrichment and character building that benefits the entire school community. 
  • Find pathways through persistent and tricky problems, drawing out the skills and solutions from people  

Bec's coaching philosophy centres on empowering educational leaders to realize their personal leadership potential. She helps people to build on their own strengths, providing them with the tools and headspace they need to make a lasting, positive impact. 

Hollie Heffernan : Deputy Head, WAPS

Hollie Heffernan

Deputy Head, WAPS

Hollie brings over 20 years of experience in primary education and currently serves as a Deputy Headteacher. With a strong commitment to developing others, she is passionate about coaching and mentoring colleagues at all stages of their careers—from early entrants to those aspiring to leadership. 

She has worked in schools across the Trust, supporting a range of projects and contributing to the development of strong, collaborative practice. With experience in specialist provision and as a NASENCO-qualified leader, she is deeply committed to supporting the most vulnerable learners. She is also passionate about creating a curriculum that meets the needs of all pupils, ensuring every child feels seen, supported, and valued. 

Hollie has led a wide range of areas across school settings, alongside key work in personal development, safeguarding, and attendance. Passionate about creating a positive, inclusive school culture of belonging, she brings both expertise and heart to her coaching practice. 

Jeannette Little : Headteacher, FPS

Jeannette Little

Headteacher, FPS

Since qualifying with a B.Ed (Hons) degree in 1991, I have worked as a teacher in large primary schools in Greater Manchester and Worcestershire; spent time as a Local Authority Advisor for English; completed several years as a Deputy Headteacher and I am presently in my 16th year as a Headteacher of a small Church primary school.  

I find the art and science of teaching fascinating and have spent the last decade and a half researching how we as teachers can develop our expertise and spread passion for this incredibly important role in society. It continues to be a privilege to work in this field with so many inspiring pupils and colleagues.  

Tanya Howarth : SENDCO, FPS

Tanya Howarth

SENDCO, FPS

Tanya is a dedicated primary educator with 18 years of teaching experience. She has spent several years working as a SENDCo and Deputy Head in a small rural primary school, roles that have strengthened her understanding of inclusive practice, leadership development, and whole-school improvement. 

Motivated by a genuine curiosity about the science of teaching, Tanya seeks to understand how educators refine their practice and how this drives professional growth within a school community. She believes in evidence-informed practice, reflective thinking, and creating sustainable, positive change. 

Throughout her career, Tanya has felt privileged to inspire both pupils and colleagues. She is enthusiastic about empowering others, nurturing their strengths, and creating opportunities for them to excel in their educational roles. Passionate, reflective, and people-focused, Tanya brings warmth and clarity to her work as she supports others on their professional journeys. 

Rachel Jenkinson : SENCo, NBHS

Rachel Jenkinson

SENCo, NBHS

Rachel is an experienced leader in secondary education, specialising in SEND to improve inclusion across the school in her role as SENCO. Her approach ensures that staff have all the necessary information to meet the students' needs. Rachel is passionate about all things SEND and welcomes coaching opportunities to support others in unleashing student potential.

Rachel McGhie : Deputy Head, SHS

Rachel McGhie

Deputy Head, SHS

Rachel began her teaching career in 2006 and has since built a rich and varied leadership portfolio working in schools in Warwickshire, taking on her current role of DHT in September 2022. With a deep-rooted passion for education, she has held a range of leadership roles, most notably in Teaching and Learning and Staff Continuing Professional Development (CPD). She found particular fulfilment in leading CPD, as it allowed her to leave a lasting legacy by nurturing and instilling a shared enthusiasm for research-led teaching and learning. Rachel also completed her SLE training which allowed her to support in other schools.

 

Rachel has held many different leadership positions throughout her career and has been strategic lead for many whole school priorities:

  • Second in department (English)
  • Head of department (English)
  • Head of Faculty (English, MFL and the Arts)
  • Assistant Headteacher
  • Deputy Headteacher

Currently, Rachel leads on Behaviour and Standards across the school, with a commitment to high expectations and a positive school culture which is student-centred. Rachel is also the Designated Safeguarding Lead. Her leadership is characterised by integrity, dedication, and a genuine belief in the transformative power of education.

Rachael McKinney : Head of Faculty, NBHS

Rachael McKinney

Head of Faculty, NBHS

With nearly a decade of experience in education, Rachael is an accomplished middle leader currently overseeing Humanities subjects. Having taught in a variety of school settings, Rachael brings a broad perspective on team leadership and classroom practice, shaped by working with diverse teams and dynamic school cultures. Specialising in Religious Studies, Rachael combines subject expertise with a deep passion for teaching and learning. This is reflected in her academic and professional development, holding a master's degree in teaching studies alongside the NPQLT (Leading Teaching) and NPQSL (Senior Leadership) qualifications. Recently completing a leadership coaching course, Rachael is committed to supporting colleagues at all stages of their career. Her coaching approach is reflective, practical, and grounded in real-world leadership experience. Whether you're exploring classroom strategies, navigating team leadership, or thinking about your next steps, Rachael is keen to support your journey.

Paul Mellors : Deputy Head, Astwood Bank Primary School

Paul Mellors

Deputy Head, Astwood Bank Primary School

Paul is a committed primary deputy headteacher with over twenty years of teaching experience and six years in senior leadership. His career spans a variety of settings, from large urban primary schools to small village schools, giving him a deep understanding of the diverse needs of pupils and their communities.

Paul has a particular passion and expertise in Upper Key Stage Two, where he has consistently supported pupils to achieve their full potential. Over the years, he has led a wide range of subjects, with English becoming a key specialism. As a former local authority moderator, Paul brings a wealth of knowledge in assessment and standards. He has a proven track record of driving improvements in teaching and learning, curriculum development, and whole-school literacy initiatives.

Rebekah Morland : Head of Humanities, SHS

Rebekah Morland

Head of Humanities, SHS

Rebekah began teaching in Birmingham in 1996 and has since taught a wide range of students across the city and in Warwickshire. She has held several leadership roles, including Head of Year (with extensive experience supporting Year 11 cohorts), Head of Geography, and Head of Humanities. Her work has included preparing students for examinations, work experience, and further study, as well as overseeing the day-to-day running of busy departments. She has also led numerous fieldwork activities and residential trips, both in the UK and abroad.

Alongside her classroom and leadership experience, Rebekah has been a GCSE examiner for over twenty years and currently leads a marking team for OCR, contributing to mark schemes and examiner reports.

Rebekah has a strong track record in curriculum design and in creating engaging, challenging lessons that meet the needs of diverse learners. She understands the value of adapting teaching and assessment to maximise student progress.

Supporting early-career teachers has been an important part of her work. As an experienced mentor, she is valued for her practical advice, clear communication, and supportive, solution-focused coaching approach. Outside of the classroom, Rebekah enjoys sharing ideas with colleagues and staying up to date with developments in geography education.

Zoe Pettit : Phase Leader

Zoe Pettit

Phase Leader

Zoe brings 20 years of experience in education, having worked in a wide range of roles including Assistant Headteacher and Phase Leader across both village and city schools. She has a genuine passion for developing others, supporting colleagues at every stage of their career. She is particularly interested in child development and the ways in which children learn through enabling, purposeful environments. Zoe is committed to ensuring that every child thrives and achieves, whatever their starting point. Feedback from former ‘coachees’: "Zoe is kind, compassionate and takes the time to listen to people and what they say and need."

Lindsay Price : Office Manager, SHS

Lindsay Price

Office Manager, SHS

Lindsay takes a warm, supportive, and strengths-based approach to coaching, drawing on her experience as Office Manager at Studley High School and a varied career in administration, communications, events, account handling, and finance across education and industry. This helps her understand the real pressures people face and how to help people navigate them with confidence.

She is actively involved in the Studley High and Shires MAT community, helping launch the Arbor App, supporting the wellbeing committee, and creating the TLC campaign.

With a degree in Business & Finance, qualifications in Music and Engineering, a Level 3 CIPD Certificate, and completion of the Leadership Coaching Programme, Lindsay uses coaching skills such as active listening, reflective questioning, goal-setting, and solution-focused thinking to help people grow. Her aim is to build confidence, clarity, and positive action.

Lindsay is friendly and approachable, always happy to go the extra mile and looks forward to supporting you as you make your next steps in your personal or professional journey.

Cat Searle : Second in Department, RSS

Cat Searle

Second in Department, RSS

Catherine is an experienced and dedicated Mathematics educator with over twelve years of teaching expertise across a diverse range of secondary school settings. Currently serving as Second in Department at Ridgeway Secondary School, she plays a key role in shaping curriculum, supporting staff, and driving continual improvement within the Mathematics faculty. Her leadership is characterised by a calm, collaborative approach and a commitment to ensuring every student develops confidence and fluency in mathematical thinking. 

Throughout her career, Catherine has taught in three distinct secondary schools, two of which are part of the same trust, giving her a deep understanding of differing school cultures, student needs, and departmental structures. In each setting, she has made a measurable contribution to raising standards and improving outcomes, helping to strengthen teaching practice and enhance student achievement across the department. 

Catherine is also highly committed to developing the next generation of teachers. For the past seven years, she has served as both a subject mentor for trainee Mathematics teachers and an ECT mentor, providing structured guidance, high-quality feedback, and pastoral support to early-career colleagues. Her mentoring style blends high expectations with empathy, ensuring new teachers feel supported while continually refining their practice. 

With a strong belief in the transformative power of education, Catherine brings passion, expertise, and professionalism to every aspect of her work. She remains dedicated to creating a positive learning environment, promoting mathematical curiosity, and contributing to whole-school improvement. Her track record across multiple schools reflects her ongoing commitment to excellence and her drive to help students and teachers reach their full potential. 

Katharine Sanders : Chief Finance Officer

Katharine Sanders

Chief Finance Officer

Katharine joined Studley High School in 2019 as Finance Manager and has been part of the Trust Central Team since it formed in 2020.  She has overall responsibility for the Trust's finance function, overseeing its financial management, strategic development, and long-term sustainability.

Katharine is an ACCA qualified accountant and has a degree in Psychology and Zoology from the University of Reading. She has worked in education since 2016 and prior to this had various finance roles across sectors including financial services and manufacturing.

Abbie Smith : Literacy Lead

Abbie Smith

Literacy Lead

Abbie Smith is an experienced primary educator with over ten years of teaching across Early Years to Year 6. As Literacy Lead, she is passionate about supporting others to reach their individual goals in ways that work best for them. Abbie values collaboration and reflection, fostering inclusive and engaging environments where both pupils and colleagues can thrive. Her NPQLL and Middle Leadership qualifications have strengthened her ability to lead with empathy, guide professional growth, and drive positive, sustainable improvement across the school community. 

Jo Smith : Head of Humanities, SHS

Jo Smith

Head of Humanities, SHS

Jo has been a history teacher for 15 years and is currently Curriculum Area Lead for Humanities. She has extensive experience in curriculum design, enhancing classroom practices and assessment. Jo has worked with a wide range of students and colleagues, developing strategies to support effective teaching and learning across all abilities. 

She has a background in managing challenging behaviour, maximising student engagement, and maintaining high expectations in diverse classrooms. Her leadership experience includes developing teams, line managing experienced staff, and leading change across multiple subjects within the Humanities faculty. 

As a coach, Jo offers a structured and reflective approach that helps colleagues identify practical ways to strengthen their teaching and leadership practice. She believes coaching is most effective when it is based on open and honest conversations, which aim to build confidence, clarity, and lead to professional growth. 

Colleagues may find coaching with Jo helpful if they are interested in: 

  • Improving classroom management and engagement 
  • Developing curriculum and lesson design 
  • Building confidence as a leader or aspiring leader 
  • Reflecting on practice to improve consistency and impact 

Emily O’Sullivan : Professional Mentor, SHS

Emily O’Sullivan

Professional Mentor, SHS

Emily is a committed and enthusiastic mathematics teacher with several years of classroom experience and a strong track record of supporting both student achievement and professional development within schools. Over the past three years, Emily has served as a Professional Mentor within a busy teaching hub, supporting approximately 25 trainee teachers through their initial training. She has worked closely with subject mentors and training providers to ensure a high-quality, supportive experience for new entrants to the profession. In addition, she has been an ECT Mentor under the new Early Career Framework, offering structured, personalised guidance to early career teachers as they develop their classroom practice and professional identity. As a Teaching and Learning Champion, she has delivered whole-school briefings, celebrated best practice, and contributed to the design and delivery of CPD briefings that have supported staff across a range of subjects. Her work focuses on sharing practical, research-based strategies that enhance teaching and learning. Emily is happy to support anyone who is looking for guidance with mentoring trainees, ECTs or perfecting their classroom practice.

Gayle Scott : Assistant Headteacher, SHS

Gayle Scott

Assistant Headteacher, SHS

Gayle Scott is an accomplished educational leader and coach with over 18 years of experience in teaching and school leadership. Currently serving as Assistant Headteacher at Studley High school, Gayle leads on teaching and learning, CPD and staff appraisal. She also heads the Art & Photography department, bringing creativity and strategic insight to both curriculum and leadership. Throughout her career, Gayle has held a range of impactful roles, including overseeing the provision for disadvantaged students and Programme Lead for the Shires Teaching Alliance. Her leadership journey spans both middle and senior levels, equipping her with a deep understanding of school improvement, staff development, and student success. A passionate advocate for the arts, Gayle holds a BA (Hons) in Performing Arts from the Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts (LIPA). Before joining Studley, she spent eight years teaching as Birmingham Ormiston Academy (BOA), a specialist arts school, where she nurtured young talent and championed creative education. Gayle's coaching approach is dialogical-rooted in meaningful conversation, active listening and mutual reflection. She believed in empowering individuals to unlock their potential through thoughtful dialogue and professional trust.

Jack Sidhu : Assistant Headteacher, SHS

Jack Sidhu

Assistant Headteacher, SHS

Jack Sidhu is a dedicated educational professional with 16 years of teaching experience across a range of roles, with a strong focus over the past seven years on leading year groups. He has successfully managed tutor teams and worked closely with pastoral managers to meet the diverse needs of students. He is particularly skilled in helping young people navigate the complexities of school life, and his leadership has been central to creating structured, supportive environments where students can achieve both personal and academic success.
Throughout his career, he has held a range of leadership roles including Head of PSHE, Academic Lead, Head of House, and Year Leader. He is highly knowledgeable and skilled in leading year groups through both academic and pastoral processes and has successfully led tutor teams while working closely with pastoral staff to support students’ holistic development. Jack is highly skilled in fostering structured, inclusive, and aspirational learning environments, enabling young people to thrive both personally and academically. Through his student-centred approach and strategic insight, he has delivered sustained improvements in behaviour culture, student wellbeing, and academic achievement across the school community.

Hannah Skate : Deputy Director of Sixth Form, NBHS

Hannah Skate

Deputy Director of Sixth Form, NBHS

Hannah Skate is an experienced teacher in upper school education. She is often asked to coach early career teachers to help them develop their organisational practices and build routines. She has supported staff in their post 16 teaching and tutor roles, especially with assessment and feedback strategies.

Suzie Trevethick : SENDCo, RSS

Suzie Trevethick

SENDCo, RSS

Suzie is a dedicated and experienced teacher with a strong background in leading inclusive practice across secondary education. As a seasoned SENDCo and department head, she has successfully driven improvements in teaching and learning, ensuring that all students, regardless of need, achieve their full potential. Her leadership is rooted in collaboration, working closely with students, families, and multidisciplinary teams to create tailored support plans that are both effective and compassionate. Suzie’s department is recognised for its strong outcomes, reflecting her commitment to high standards and continuous improvement. Beyond her operational expertise, Suzie is passionate about empowering colleagues through mentoring and professional development. She believes in nurturing a school culture where every staff member feels equipped and inspired to make a difference. Her work not only enhances student outcomes but also strengthens the wider school community.

Debbie Yarnold : Headteacher, ABPS

Debbie Yarnold

Headteacher, ABPS

With over two decades of dedicated headship across two first schools and a primary school, Debbie is an experienced and highly respected educational leader. Throughout her career, she has championed a collaborative, team-focused culture, believing that strong relationships are the foundation of successful schools. Passionate about creating environments where children learn through enjoyment, curiosity, and confidence, Debbie is committed to nurturing both staff and pupils so they can flourish. Her leadership is defined by integrity, vision, and an unwavering belief in the power of joyful, meaningful learning.