Q: What is your role?
A: I am Head of Year 11, responsible for the care and wellbeing of students as well as their academic success. I support them on their Post 16 journey, promote core values and help instil ambition as they navigate exams and applications.

Q: You were identified for Team Talks by your colleagues. Please tell us about this work and why it matters to you.
A: I have been a Head of Year for over 10 years. I joined Maiden Erlegh School in Reading because the values align with my own. We are not just teachers; we are leading figures in the lives of our students and for many, their greatest source of support and encouragement. I work tirelessly to make sure every student is seen, heard and supported. They all have incredible potential and with Year 11, I love being part of their story and helping them write their next chapter.

“Every student has a story, and supporting them to see their own potential is one of the most rewarding parts of this role.”

Q: What motivates you to keep pushing this work forward?
A: No day is the same, but every day has a highlight. You leave knowing you’ve taught something beyond the curriculum. We play a key role in teaching morality, kindness, respect and resilience. Every impact matters, even if it seems small. My team brings a wealth of experience and we are united in championing our students and supporting their wider network: the child, their family and one another.

Q: What has helped shape your approach? What have you learned along the way?
A: Every child is unique; what works for one does not work for another. We have to adapt to build relationships and trust. I encourage my students to have a growth mindset; resilience is a particular challenge for Year 11. They have the tools to be incredible; they need the strength to believe it. The unity of our tutors and Phase Lead team means students are reminded of this every day. They inspire us as much as we inspire them.

“Year 11 students come every day looking for us to inspire them, and they remind us to see the good in everything.”

Q: Which MET value connects most strongly to your work and why?
A: Work Together. My team are my strength and the encouragement to always do better. Better united. Stronger as one.

Q: Do you have any future plans or projects you are working on?
A: I am designing a Post 16 networking event to widen opportunities for Year 10 ahead of the year to come. I am also completing an NPQSL to develop my leadership and prepare for future roles.

Thank you, Amy, for sharing your insight and for the commitment you bring to supporting Year 11 every single day.

#TeamMET #PastoralLeadership #StudentSupport #SecondaryEducation #Post16Pathways