Hello! I joined SAVTE in January 2024 as Chief Executive Officer. Previously, I worked for over 25 years in adult and higher education, working for the WEA as well as in universities.
Before this, I taught English in Spain and the UK. My role as CEO is to guide, support and develop the organisation, lead day-to-day management and ensure that the brilliant work SAVTE does is recognised and celebrated!
I have known about the work of SAVTE for many years, as a WEA Organiser in Sheffield, I worked in close partnership with SAVTE colleagues who supported students to progress into WEA ESOL classes when they were ready to take this step.
I got to hear some of the remarkable stories of people who had experienced great challenges – and the positive, often transformational impact SAVTE had on them. I therefore feel immensely proud and excited to come to SAVTE in what is its 50th year, and am really excited to contribute to ensuring that it continues to thrive for the people and communities it supports.
When I’m not at work, I write (poetry mainly, though I’m writing a Sheffield ghost story right now!), grow fruit and veg, walk, try to learn languages (Italian at the moment) and cook. I have a sweet tooth, so I have no choice but to bake cakes whenever I can!
