Having developed my career leading mainstream schools facing challenging circumstances, my subsequent move into special education enabled me to refocus on common causes of poor behaviour and disaffection as well as a myriad of other issues facing SEMH schools.  Whilst reading and learning about developments in neuro-science, through my daily interactions with some very troubled young people I directly observed and managed the effects of neglect and lack of attachment and nurture on the developing brain.  I am a huge advocate of nurture programmes such as The Thrive Approach, Trauma Informed Practice, Outdoor Learning, Bounce Therapy and others as I have seen for myself how successful they can be in giving these young people self belief, confidence, skills and aspiration.  Only then can they begin to learn across a varied and inclusive curriculum.

 

In August 2019 I retired from Headship to focus on my growing consultancy work.  I maintained my involvement with SEMH schools as Co-chair of their national organisation Engage In Their Future until 2022.  I am currently a Trustee of the Bristol charity Ignite Life, which supports vulnerable young people with a range of bespoke support services. 

 

I continue to be actively involved in rugby as the DSO for Bristol Bears Rugby as well as U18's match day team manager.  I am President of Old Bristolians RFC, where I am also the Safeguarding lead.  In all settings young people's ability to learn and develop resilience depends on the approaches taken by their teachers, parents, sports coaches and youth workers.  It's a responsibility I put at the centre of everything I do.

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Aside from rugby I also enjoy cycling, sailing and skiing.  I am married with two grown up sons.