Tell us about LVS Ascot and why parents choose it for their youngsters.

At LVS Ascot, we have a strong belief that every child can succeed. Our ethos is built around aspiration, opportunity and truly valuing the individual. Parents choose LVS Ascot because they want a school that combines ambition with care. We nurture confidence, resilience and curiosity, while recognising that every young person has different strengths, talents and aspirations. We believe education should help children discover who they are, what they are capable of and where they can make their contribution in the world.

Describe your style of leadership.

Teaching was a second career for me, but education quickly became a deep passion and a real sense of purpose. My leadership style is collaborative and people-centred. I believe strongly in investing in the next layer of leadership and creating opportunities for others to grow and flourish. While I value openness, trust and empowerment, I am prepared to be tightly authoritative when the situation demands it, particularly where safeguarding, standards or the wellbeing of young people are concerned.

What is inclusive education and what are its benefits?

Inclusive education is, at its heart, about recognising that every child is different and ensuring that difference is not only accepted, but valued. For me, inclusion is not a bolt-on initiative or a department within a school — it is a culture and a mindset. Inclusive environments help young people develop empathy, emotional intelligence, adaptability and respect for others. They prepare students for the real world by helping them understand the value of diversity and collaboration.

Can you summarise the ideas within your book, ‘Transforming School Culture through Lesson Observation’?

I believe that that lesson observation should develop people, rather than diminish them. Observation processes have historically created anxiety, performance cultures and compliance-driven teaching. At the centre of the book is my innovative three-stage lesson observation model, which focuses on reflection, professional dialogue and psychological safety. The process moves away from “judging” teachers and instead creates opportunities for collaboration, creativity and professional growth. Great teaching is not performative compliance; it is rooted in relationships, expertise, creativity and authenticity.

What do you see as the current challenges and opportunities in education?

One of the greatest challenges – and equally one of the greatest opportunities – facing education is the rise of AI and the changing world of work. AI will undoubtedly transform industries, careers and the way young people access information. Education has an opportunity to evolve alongside it. If we can combine technology with strong values, authentic relationships and an unwavering belief in the potential of every child, education can become far more powerful than it has ever been before.

Find out more at lvs.ascot.sch.uk