Chief Executive
What’s your role at TDT?
I see my primary role as CEO as helping to create the conditions to allow others in the organisation to thrive. I need to know enough about everything to be clear, but recognise that TDT is blessed with a team of people who are far more expert in their areas than I am. I need to help them be the best versions of themselves.
Why is the work important to you?
I believe that nothing can be sustainably improved in schools without investing in teachers, and more particularly in teacher professionalism. Teachers should be supported to be real experts and we should find the right ways to trust teachers.
What’s your career been like?
I was a civil servant for 19 years, mainly at the Department for Education, but also at DFID for a couple of years. I covered policy from higher education to early years, but focused on supporting teachers, especially around professional development. I led the team that created and delivered the initial Early Career Framework and reformed NPQs.
What do you do outside of TDT? (other projects, roles, or hobbies)?
I am proud to have worked with Nansi Ellis on our book – Improving Education Policy Together – published in 2024. We have plans to write more! Being a trustee at Education Support has given me so much, and I am determined to help raise awareness – and make practical changes – to support teacher wellbeing. And – most importantly – I have an amazing cocker spaniel called Jed Barklett.