Education Team

Emma oined Sapientia Education Trust in September 2020. Prior to this she was a Headteacher in a local Norfolk school, where she led the school to achieve an Outstanding judgement under the new Ofsted framework (November 2019). Much of the success of the school was rooted in strategic leadership that embedded consistent practices which was underpinned by a collective self-efficacy.

Prior to this Emma has held many leadership roles including Deputy Headteacher, Safeguard Lead, Literacy Lead, Numeracy Lead and EYFS Lead. She is relentless in her determination to ensure all children receive a world class education and works with school by improving standards and cementing common goals that are consistent in approach, delivered through a Trust wide improvement strategy. 

Andy joined Sapientia Education Trust in January 2023, having previously led significant school improvement as a Headteacher in Ipswich.  He has always worked in schools that support a high number of pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds and is committed to providing exceptional educational opportunities for all children.  Starting as a science teacher in a challenging school in London, he briefly pursued a career in finance before swiftly returning when he realised how much he had missed working in schools.  

He went on to gain leadership roles as Head of Science, Assistant Headteacher and Deputy Headteacher.  Andrew holds a master's degree in chemistry from the University of Oxford and is currently studying for an MBA from University College London.  His experience and commitment contribute to Sapientia Education Trust's mission of ensuring every child flourishes.

Michelle joined Sapientia in March 2024.  She brings with her over 14 years experience in he voluntary sector in which she has been instrumental in supporting both adults and children affected by domestic abuse and has implemented effective prevention measures.  

Building on her existing knowledge, Michelle transitioned to education a decade ago and has been a strong advocate for pastoral support in schools. Her extensive background in safeguarding, attendance and behaviour management has been instrumental in shaping policies and fostering a safer learning environment for all.

Michelle is dedicated to setting pupils up for success beyond their academic years, instilling in them a sense of self-worth and belonging. She is passionate about building strong working relationships and is committed to establishing efficient systems to bring about impactful change across the trust. 

Kirsty joined SET in September 2016 after three years as Vice Principal for Teaching and Learning at Wymondham College.  She has worked in a variety of schools and Sixth Form Colleges and has taught English, Sociology, Psychology and Government & Politics to A-Level.  Kirsty undertook a Master’s Degree in Education Leadership and has a particular interest in Leadership Training and the quality assurance of Teaching and Learning.

Both these key areas feature prominently in the Sapientia Teaching School Programme, which will be launched in September 2018.  In addition to bid-writing (including the Primary School and Teaching School) Kirsty’s role is to continue to work with senior leaders in the SET to deliver outstanding support, guidance and opportunities for development for all our teaching staff in the Primary and Secondary sectors.

Rob came to the UEA to do his PGCE in Primary education seventeen years ago and, as with many people who come to Norfolk, ended up making it his home.  Since then he has worked in and with many different schools across the county, initially as an Advanced Skills Teacher in maths, and then as a CPD Lead and Acting Head of Sheringham Teaching School.

In January 2020 he was delighted to start work with Sapientia Education Trust. Rob is deeply committed to working with schools in the Trust, and more widely through the Sapientia Teaching School, to support them in their professional development in order to provide excellent learning environments in which children can flourish.

Andrew has had 37 years' experience in schools, 14 of which as a Secondary Headteacher and over 20 in senior leadership roles. After training and teaching in special schools, Andrew has worked in secondary and primary schools in England and overseas.

Andrew has a detailed understanding of school improvement both in terms of his academic work and practical experience across schools and Multi Academy Trusts. 

Michelle joined Sapientia Education Trust in January 2022. Michelle has a clear passion and drive for Special Educational Needs & Inclusion. Michelle is the Regional SEND Leader for the East of England and North-East London; delivering the Whole School SEND School's Workforce Contract as commissioned by the Department for Education.

An experienced Senior Leader & SENDCO, Michelle has a wealth of experience & success across both Secondary & Primary education including Teaching & Learning improvement, Curriculum Development, supporting our most vulnerable learners as well as Safeguarding & Pastoral provision.

Briony joined Sapientia Education Trust in October 2024. She has worked across a variety of different sectors, providing administrative support to senior members of staff, and Leadership Teams.

As well as practical experience in a variety of different settings, her Level 3 Business Administration Diploma has allowed her to effectively support all staff with administration. She provides administrative support to the CEO and Deputy CEO's, and the Education Team for The Trust.