“An organisation can never be a true parent, however it can apply the values and principles of good parenting. Our aim is to achieve this through promoting an awareness of a young person’s perspective, and by never losing sight, within the ‘big picture’, of the small actions that make a real difference to young children’s daily lives.”
Tayyaba Ahmed
BSc (Hons) Psychology, NPQSL, PGDE, QTLS, DSL.
Director of Education
Tayyaba has worked in specialist independent schools for most of her career and developed curriculums that are creative and meet the needs of individual children. She has been involved in numerous Ofsted inspections, all of which have been graded a minimum ‘good.’ Tayyaba, in her previous role was a Regional Headteacher, overseeing a number of specialist schools in the Northwest.
Tayyaba has a wealth of experience working with students with varying SEMH needs. She feels strongly about supporting young people and wants to provide them with positive education experiences.
Tayyaba is committed to ensuring our provision meets the needs of all pupils and they are given the best educational experiences and environment, where they can thrive and make progress both academically, socially and emotionally.
Our Staff
Jennifer Birks
Lead Teacher
Jennifer is a recently qualified teacher who has experience within SEMH and specialises in subjects such as English with KS3 and KS4. She is passionate about supporting her students in their ability to access multiple text types, from reading a range of literature to writing their own CV. With her involvement working alongside a mental health charity, she hopes to inspire and support those who have had difficult experiences to reach their potential. She believes that every child, who each has their own individual needs and experiences, is capable of achieving anything that they set their young minds to.
Vicky Vandervelde
NVQ Level 3
Family Support Officer
Vicky has previously worked as a learning mentor in mainstream primary school and in various British Forces schools overseas. Vicky has a wealth of knowledge and experience in developing positive social, emotional and behavioural skills with the children she works with. She has a passion for life skills, cooking and gardening.
Vicky Vandervelde
Vicky has previously worked as a learning mentor in mainstream primary school and in various British Forces schools overseas. Vicky has a wealth of knowledge and experience in developing positive social, emotional and behavioural skills with the children she works with. She has a passion for life skills, cooking and gardening.
Wayne Traynor
CWDC. Level 3 Diploma in Children’s and Young Peoples’ Workforce
Engagement Lead
Wayne’s spent 12 years in the army as a section commander. During his time, he had 2 tours of Iraq. Wayne has worked for Timeout as Therapeutic care worker for 3 years and now supports school as a Teaching Assistant. Wayne takes a huge amount of pride in his role and enjoys supporting children both at school and home using his experiences from different roles to guide, progress and get the best possible outcomes for all children.
