Meet The Team
We see huge potential in every moment and care deeply about what we do every day.
We have the right breadth and depth of experience to ensure we deliver on all levels and offer a broad tailored curriculum.
Our Leadership Team
Claire Gray
Director
claire@ngagedltd.uk
Before creating this company, I had gained a diverse range of experience with young people of primary and secondary school age. Roles such as Pastoral and Behaviour Support, Teaching Assistant, Lead First Aider, Exams Officer and HR and Admin gave me a broad understanding of the way the education system works, as well as how it doesn't!
I decided to create a company which offered the support, guidance and confidence building that many young people need. We mentor highly vulnerable students who have become disengaged with education and their community. All of our carefully chosen and vetted staff, believe that the wellbeing of our students is our priority. With our support, this always leads to engagement. Most of our students have EHCPs and suffer from social anxiety and low self-esteem. Some have not attended school for a long time, others are between schools, on a part-time programme or just holding on.
We don't give up on our young people and keep on trying to encourage and support until we achieve our aim - for them to smile, look forward to their futures and have confidence in themselves.
I am best known by my friends for my sense of humour, listening ear and problem solving mind. I have a daughter who I am very close to and enjoy time spent with my family and friends.
Dave Astill
Designated Safeguarding
Lead
dave@ngagedltd.uk
After a short career as a solicitor, I moved into youth work some 30 years ago, and in 2000, completed a PGC in Youth & Community Work. Throughout this, my focus has been encouraging young people’s development & interdependence, despite & through vulnerabilities, risks and disadvantages.
Initially working for a local church, most of my career has been with Bournemouth local authority, followed by self-employment. In 2021, I joined a SENMH secondary school as their youth mentor.
I have been part of and led a number of teams and projects including 1–1 intensive support. I have extensive experience in designing, delivering & leading staff development. This has included introductory courses, accredited youth work qualifications at Levels 2 & 3, and contributing to degree modules. I have held all necessary safeguarding, teaching & assessment qualifications. I’ve been a qualified Mental Health First Aider since 2017.
I was part of church-based youth work for many years, including 8 years as Deputy Safeguarding Lead. Married for over 30 years, my wife and I enjoy hill walking & camping. Our two adult sons join us when they are able. I enjoy music, play bass guitar in church and am a regular gig-goer. Sport remains important, especially AFCB!
In joining the Ngaged Ltd. team – which is an immense privilege - I’m excited to be contributing to high quality support for young people.
Lucy Edwards
Referrals and Student Lead (QTS)
lucy@ngagedltd.uk
I have been privileged to teach and work with children for over 25 years, exclusively in the primary sector, and have always enjoyed the interaction and shared learning experience between myself, the child and the family. There is nothing more special than being part of a child’s journey, be it achieving a particular goal in an academic subject or learning the songs of garden birds!
I have mainly taught upper key stage 2 children but during my career I have also been a headteacher, part of school leadership, SENCo, county moderator for writing, and SATs maths marker. This gives me a wide range and depth of experience, working with many different organisations and people, helping me to devise and share individualised learning journeys with the children I teach and support. I am first aid trained and have been the safeguarding lead in school.
I was very fortunate to compete up to international standard in Tetrathlon, moving onto Modern Pentathlon for many years. Although I do not compete anymore, I still swim and horse ride every week. Horse riding gives me a great excuse to get outdoors (rain or shine!) and to share my other passion which is the natural world. At other times you can find me trying to tame my garden or buried deep in a great book.
Peter Mackay
Head of Academics and Policy (QTS, PGCE)
peter@ngagedltd.uk
I lead on academics and policy, with a view to improving outcomes for out students and wider society. Our team is dedicated and skilled and we all strive to make a difference each day.
I have been working in education for over ten years and pride myself on being able to build excellent relationships with those around me. I believe in a holistic view of education and prefer a tailored approach. If we ensure that the pastoral care is right, then success will come.
I am a qualified teacher and started my teaching life in The Bahamas. I enjoy exploring other cultures and have learnt a lot studying different education systems. I have a Masters in Bioethics and Medical Law alongside my Bachelors degree in Philosophy, Religion and Ethics. I specialise as a teacher in RS, but have also taught History, PSHE, Citizenship and Geography.
I have been a Head of Year, vulnerable student lead and managed a students’ union. I love supporting others, helping them to thrive and achieve their potential.
Esther Martin
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Katherine Wilde
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Luisa Sherred
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Kate Mylne
Arts Award Coordinator (PGCE)
kate@ngagedltd.uk
I studied printed textiles at Southampton University, after which I became a qualified secondary Art and Design teacher.
I was fortunate to be able to complete my NQT year at a wonderful special needs school, an experience that started my passion for teaching students with special educational needs. I now have over 25 years of SEN teaching experience across all Key Stages in various schools. Throughout my career, I have adopted a creative, adaptable, and supportive approach, encouraging my students to strive to reach their full potential.
My teaching experience has led me to my current position as Arts Award Coordinator here at Ngaged Ltd. This role gives me the privilege of supporting our students as they progress through either the Bronze or Silver Arts Award. It has been inspiring watching them grow in confidence whilst developing their artistic and creative skills as they complete a portfolio of artwork and research.
I work three days per week for Ngaged Ltd and use the other two days working as a freelance illustrator.
Away from work, I enjoy a variety of activities such as exploring free-motion embroidery, painting and gardening. I love visiting galleries and enjoy long countryside walks with my dog (who loves to swim at any opportunity!)
Emily-Jane Marsh
Academic Tutor (PGCE)
emily-jane@ngagedltd.uk
I’m Emily. I have a PGCE in Secondary school Religious Education, and a Ba (Hons) in Philosophy, Religion and Ethics. I have been lucky enough to work in a variety of places, ranging from specialist care, NHS Accident and Emergency and more recently as a teacher and then Academic tutor. When I went back to university, I was a mature student, during my time there I was diagnosed with ADHD, Dyslexia and Dyspraxia and this is where my passion for supporting people with a variety of SEN really took off.
During my last year of university, we went into lock down, and I began not only my dissertation but also home-schooling my son. This experience was incredible, adapting learning to suit his needs and engaging him in new exciting ways and involving all of his interests inspired me to go into teaching. Now I realise that my true enthusiasm is tailoring learning to support people with SEN. I have always thrived in working in high-paced and vibrant settings, and love a new challenge. This is what brought me to Ngaged, the idea that I could put my passion for adapting learning and suiting a young person's needs in new and exciting ways really drew me in and I have loved it ever since.
I am a creative person who loves writing (poetry mainly), drawing, paintings and essentially anything creative I can get my hands on! I also love to be outside in nature and will often find me out somewhere near the water!
I am a creative person who loves writing (poetry mainly), drawing, paintings and essentially anything creative I can get my hands on! This has led to me getting involved in a range of community activities and events where I either participate or help run! Including workshops, fairs, poetry readings and open mic nights, these all help build my techniques and things I can incorporate into a learning environment. I also love to be outside in nature and will often find me out somewhere with my paddle board!
Kye MacDonald
Pastoral Support Mentor
kye@ngagedltd.uk
Hi, I am Kye and I have many qualifications in different areas including Oliver Mcgowan Learning Disabilities and Autism, Motivational Interviewing and BTEC Sport.
I have worked in Mental health for the last 10 years, with the last 6 years being in child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS). I have experience working on a psychiatric intensive care unit with adults, inpatient adolescent mental health services and I am currently working in the community for CAMHS enhanced support and liaison services alongside working for Ngaged.
Skills that I work on with the young people I support include: self regulation, management of difficult emotions, understanding and managing anxiety and building self esteem and self belief. Physical activity and sport based learning is a huge part of this.
I was encouraged by a member of the existing Ngaged team to apply for a job with Ngaged. They shared with me how it's a fantastic company to work for. The type of support Ngaged provides to the young people they nurture, and the skills they help young people to develop, fitted with my skill set and experience working in mental health and with adolescents.
I enjoy being part of a system that makes such a difference to the vulnerable young people we support. I love seeing them develop skills and abilities they thought they would never be able to achieve.
My hobbies and interests consist of spending time with my wife and daughter. Some of the family activities we do together are swimming and walking. I enjoy eating nice food, both home cooked and meals out, and I also love to travel and see new places and cultures along the way. I enjoy going to the gym and playing sports and love that this fits with some of the skills I am trying to work on with young people supported by Ngaged.
Emily Davidson
Academic Senior Tutor (PGCE)
emily@ngagedltd.uk
I’m a secondary school History teacher. As well as History, I enjoy teaching Functional Skills English and Maths and a variety of subjects to KS3. I have worked in mainstream schools for several years. I loved bringing on my students, helping them achieve their potential. In addition, I am a trained executive coach. This strengthens my empathetic abilities and helps in developing good and trusting relationships with my students.
I have a passion for developing curiosity about the world around us and a love of learning in the young people I work with. I love working with young people to help them develop their unique skills and abilities. A few years ago, I took some time to develop my curiosity and interest in the world around me by sailing and adventuring with my young family, sailing half way around the world. This gave me plenty of scope to practise finding learning opportunities in my day-to-day experiences.
I was drawn to Ngaged as it is such a privilege to be able to work 1:1 with a young person, meeting them where they are in their learning and life journey and supporting them to develop, learn and grow. I stay with Ngaged as no two students are the same and I appreciate each one for their unique perspective. And the team of tutors and mentors I work with are fantastic, supportive and kind. It’s a wonderful team to work with.
As well as my teaching qualification and coach training, I have first aid training in medical care at sea and a long-range radio license! I love learning new skills to adapt to new surroundings.
In my own time, I love to be doing things outdoors with my family and friends whether that is on or in the water, up a mountain, in the countryside or at a sports pitch. After that, I love a good read – historical fiction ideally or a film or a sing-a-long to my favourite music playlist. I live with my husband, two sons. And our cat, Tiny. Miaooow.
Abigail Pike
Senior Pastoral Support Mentor
abigail@ngagedltd.uk
I have many qualifications such as Level 3 Education and Training, Safeguarding Children Level 3 Safeguarding Vulnerable Adults Level 2.
I spent 5 years working at PGL where I discovered my passion for the outdoors and working with children and young adults. I loved leading groups in adventure activities. I had the fantastic opportunity during this time to gain a wide range of practical and adventure qualifications. I would take such pride in seeing the students come out of their shells during their holidays when they develop their independence, confidence and their social skills. When I wasn’t at PGL I worked in a wide range of jobs where I completed a range of NVQ qualifications from retail, food and drink services which saw me manage a new forest hotel. Each of these experiences helped me become the woman I am today. When I look back at my careers I can see when I had a valued mentor and how they helped me professionally.
I join Ngaged as I found myself missing working alongside children and young adults. I missed supporting someone through challenges and watching them beam with pride for their achievement. When I found Ngaged I was impressed by their values and how they want to encourage individual students to progress through a tailored programme delivering one to one mentoring sessions. I really do love my role.
I have had the pleasure of working alongside our amazing students now for over a year and nothing feels better than seeing them make progress. I love how they teach me every day. Some of my biggest successes can come from just turning up and being consistent in their world.
Outside of work I love to explore and enjoy the New Forest and coastline. I love to read and enjoy all crafts. I always seem to be trying a new hobby. I am a bubbly person who enjoys a good iced tea and singalong.
Faye Dunlop
Academic Tutor
faye@ngagedltd.uk
My name is Faye and I am a qualified teacher, who has been teaching since 2017. I have had experience of working in different year groups and have worked in schools across Hampshire, both as a Class Teacher and Supply Teacher. I also have a degree in English Literature and Film Studies.
I have had the pleasure of working with brilliant students, who have taught me so much about myself through the years. I am a calm, empathetic person, who creates an environment where students can take risks, make mistakes and grow and thrive from their experiences. I love to watch people grow and to help guide them through their journey, whether that be academic or personal.
I have recently achieved my Level 3 in Person Centred Counselling Skills, which was an eye opening and inspiring experience and I continue to use what I learned on the course, every day. People just want to be listened to and heard. When they are, they start to feel empowered and their confidence grows.
I am an academic tutor for Ngaged and I teach English and Maths. I joined Ngaged because I felt like it aligned with my values and beliefs as a person and as a teacher. Supporting a person using a holistic approach is something I'm passionate about and tried to incorporate into my everyday teaching when I was a primary teacher. I also love how supportive the entire team is and I have never felt so welcomed!
When I'm not working as a tutor, I am spending time with my toddler, who is a wonderfully vivacious person (she puts me through my paces!). I am always listening to music, I love all kinds, especially Country at the moment and reading books, I love Japanese literature. I'm also a lover of yoga, running and anything within nature.
Jotham Watson
Academic Tutor (PGCE)
jotham@ngagedltd.uk
I have a BEd (First Class Hons) in Primary Education from the University of Winchester. I have worked in many educational settings, starting as a Child Care college student, before progressing onto being a Teaching Assistant and eventually a classroom teacher. I have also worked as a youth leader for a church. I was responsible for leading their youth work and coordinated the kids team too.
I cover a range of academic subjects but mainly focus on English and Maths at both Key Stage 2 & 3 level. However, I will turn my hand to most things if asked.
I applied to work for Ngaged as I desired a change from classroom teaching and wanted to combine my passion for working with young people, across a broad age range, and my desire to see all young people thrive both as incredible human beings and also academically too. I have a diagnosis of dyslexia and often I struggled at school. However, with a lot of hard work, I was able to go on and achieve things I never thought possible. I want to inspire young people to have a similar mentality while also demonstrating to them that there are people in this world who care and want the best for them.
Choosing to work for Ngaged ultimately has been the best career decision. I work with the kindest and most supportive team I could possibly hope for. I have the joy and privilege of working with young people one-to-one and seeing tangible changes in them.
My main hobbies consist of spending time with my wife and family; playing acoustic guitar and singing; DIY (we are currently renovating our new house) and playing football (I’m a huge Tottenham fan).
Danielle Nock
Academic Tutor and Marketing Officer (BEd in Primary Education)
danielle@ngagedltd.uk
My name is Danielle and I am a qualified teacher with a music specialism. For 4 years I worked as a primary school teacher creating a calm, encouraging and nurturing environment for my students. One of my favourite parts of teaching is seeing children's confidence develop and watching students have those 'I get it!!' moments. I love making learning fun by creating engaging, memorable activities. My favourite subjects at school were Drama, Geography and English.
Before this, I worked as a Cast Member at Walt Disney World in Florida! I worked in merchandise in the Pirates of the Caribbean shop and the Aladdin shop as well as going to Disney University for lectures. This was a magical experience where I made amazing memories.
I am an academic tutor for Ngaged and mostly teach English, Maths and Science. I have also taught criminology, coding and media. Alongside this, I do the marketing for the company and run the social media accounts (facebook and instagram) which I love! I joined Ngaged because I wanted to try something different and I am so glad I did. I love working in such a supportive team but my favourite thing is that every day is different! I am so grateful for this opportunity.
A bit about me- I love spending time with my family, exploring the world, eating delicious food and making beautiful memories! I am married and we are expecting our first child in May 2025, so excited!
I look forward to working with you soon.
Katherine Richards
Pastoral Support Mentor and Tutor
katherine@ngagedltd.uk
Over the last 13 years I have had the privilege of supporting young people within a variety of settings. After gaining a 2:1 degree in primary education, I spent time in a primary school adapting the curriculum to make it accessible for young people with additional needs. During this time, I also worked as a support worker for young people with complex needs- enabling them to participate in holidays abroad and a variety of community activities.
For the next 5 years I worked full-time in children’s residential care, supporting young people within the home and community to develop their life skills and independence. I have continued with this role as a bank worker alongside my work with Ngaged and have recently completed ADHD training, CSE training and an understanding autism course as part of my continual professional development. I have also completed my NVQ Level 4 in children, young people and families.
I have been working for Ngaged since 2022 and have had the pleasure of working as both a mentor and tutor. It has been wonderful to support our young people to reach their full potential and have the freedom to be able to do this in a creative and child centred way!
I am kept busy in my free time by my two boys. My eldest son is neurodivergent which has enabled me to understand the journey parents face to gaining the right support and some of the challenges that are faced by families day to day.
Jo Shearn
Academic Tutor & SEN Specialist (PGCE/QTS)
joshearn@ngagedltd.uk
I studied at the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama and qualified with a Batchelors in Education (B.Ed hons) in Drama and Spoken Language.
I have worked in education for over 24 years both in primary and secondary schools. In this time, I had the privilege of teaching in both mainstream and SEN schools in inner city London and Hampshire. I also ran an arts in education business taking drama workshops and performances into schools.
I teach all subjects at KS1/KS2, and Functional Skills Level 2 in maths and English. I also teach GCSE English Language, Literature and French.
I was keen to work with Ngaged so I could help students achieve their full potential through a tailor-made curriculum, giving young people the time and patience to thrive. I love seeing my students enjoy learning again and making progress. I enjoy planning lessons around the needs and filling gaps of learning in a fun and relaxed way. We are a strong dedicated team at Ngaged and I love being a part of it and making a difference to the young people we work with.
I enjoy being creative. I used to perform on the comedy circuit in London doing improvised comedy, have been in many plays at the Edinburgh and London fringe and I have written and performed a one woman play. I love cycling, country walks, yoga, learning languages and cold sea dips. I also coach women and young people in well being.
Serena Morton
Academic Tutor and Senior Mentor
serena@ngagedltd.uk
Hello everyone! I’m Serena and I have had the enjoyment and privilege of working with SEN students for the last seven and a half years.
Having spent most of my working life in office based roles I decided to have a complete career change and retrained to become a 1:1 tutor and mentor for students who had disengaged from education. I started this new journey working in a behavioural school in Bournemouth with students on a 1:1 basis off site. I stayed there for five years before joining Ngaged.
Certificates in Safeguarding (Level 3), Prevent, and GDPR are the latest training I have undertaken to keep our students safe.
I am able to support students in Maths, English (Language and Literature) and basic Science topics from KS2 up to GCSE along with Functional Skills Entry Level 1,2 and 3 and Level 1 so far.
Working for Ngaged for the last two years has been the highlight of my journey in the educational workplace. I absolutely love my job, love the students I support and am very blessed to work within the most amazing team. Job satisfaction is off the scales!
My spare time is mostly spent among my family of five grown up children and six grandchildren, and close friends. I enjoy the theatre, live music, holistic therapies, yoga, walking, good food and good company.
Alex Boxley
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Daniel Owen
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Becks Reynolds
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Hannah Maxted
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Alex Selby
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Edward Hawxwell
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Annabelle Fuller
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Evie Platts
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Jessica Derham
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Slavena Koneva
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Leanne Mitchell
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Megan Marshall
Tutor and Mentor (PGCE)
meganbeth@ngagedltd.uk
My name is Meg and I am a qualified teacher. I studied musical theatre at university and then went on to do a PGCE in primary education. I then became a learning support assistant and cover teacher in a primary school where I soon found a passion for working with children with SEN. I loved problem solving to find a way to make school that little bit easier for those students who found it a bit tricky. As well as this, I have also have experience in teaching both dance and singing to children in both classes and private sessions.
I joined Ngaged because I have a passion for working with children with SEN who maybe don’t find school as easy as everyone else, whether that be academically or socially. Everyday is different which I love and the rest of the staff is so supportive. There is always someone to help if I have a question or problem. Ngaged sees that traditional schooling does not work for everybody. Each child is different so every session is different. I am so glad I started working for Ngaged.
A bit about me: I have recently returned from maternity leave after having my first child in May 2024. I love being a mummy and spending time with my son and fiancé. I love performing, especially singing and dancing. I have recently fallen back in love with reading so whenever I have a spare moment I either have my kindle in my hand or an audiobook in my ear. I have also started upcycling clothes which I really enjoy.
Clare Ogilvie
Academic Tutor (PGCE/QTS)
c.ogilvie@ngagedltd.uk
Hi! I’m Clare. After leaving university I knew I wanted to live abroad. My first job was teaching in an international school in Kenya where I thought I would stay for two years. This rolled into twelve happy years in the sunshine.
Returning to the UK I taught in the classroom, every age from Early years to Year 8. I developed an interest in teaching children with SEN which led me to my previous SEN secondary school. I got a real buzz knowing that I wasn’t just supporting academic lessons but the wider learning essential for adulthood. I enjoyed the smaller classes which meant getting to know my students and families well.
I have been working with Ngaged Ltd for a year now and it has been the best move I have ever made. I am able to tailor my teaching to the interests and passions of individual students without the restraint of a school timetable. I love creating bonds with my students, where they understand that they are in a safe space to talk and learn.
Moving to Hampshire eight years ago was a fabulous move, being so close to the forest and is perfect for my two dogs, Teddy my Dalmatian and Charlie, my cheeky black Labrador. I love cooking, gardening and I have a huge appetite for audiobooks!
Sarah Addyman
Academic Tutor (PGCE)
sarah@ngagedltd.uk
Hi, my name is Sarah and I am a qualified teacher who finds immense joy in the field of education. Through my roles as a teacher, school counsellor,sports coach and Assistant Houseparent I have had the privilege of supporting both the academic growth and personal wellbeing of students.
I believe that making education enjoyable fosters a lifelong love of learning, which is essential for both academic success and personal development.
Working for Ngaged is particularly fulfilling, as it allows me the flexibility to design sessions tailored to each student’s unique interests. Incorporating various breaks—whether it’s a walk, a catch-up, or listening to music—creates a relaxed and supportive environment. These moments not only build confidence but also provide valuable opportunities to check in on students’ wellbeing, making each session truly meaningful.
Outside of work, I lead an active lifestyle, enjoying sports like kitesurfing, hockey, running, and sea swimming. My husband and I share a deep love for the outdoors, which grew even stronger during our time in Australia. These experiences have enriched my perspective and further deepened my commitment to fostering a supportive and engaging learning environment for every student.
Sam Cook
Pastoral Support Mentor
sam@ngagedltd.uk
Hi! My name is Sam and I have been working for Ngaged Ltd. for a little while now. However, I first trained as a mechanic for a major car company where I gained practical and problem-solving skills. I'm really enjoying branching out and working with young people.
I have trained to Safeguarding Level 2, as well as having completed several CPD courses and training through the Education and Training Foundation including Radicalisation and Extremism, Staying Safe Online, Who Can You Trust? and British Values. Previously, I also completed study on LGBQT Awareness, Modern Relationships, Mental Health, Friendship, Racial Discrimination and Disability Awareness.
Additionally, I have completed an Covid-19 Awareness course in light of the recent pandemic.
In my own time, I am an outdoors-y person who is a little car obsessed. I have always enjoyed playing video games and I am into tech stuff as well. I love art and music.
I find a lot of my hobbies make for good rapport building with young people and allow us to find some common ground in which to start building a professional relationship. Something as simple as this can be just the thing to break down barriers and begin some really rewarding work with a young person.
Michelle Cooper
Academic Tutor and Mentor
michelle@ngagedltd.uk
Hi I’m Michelle, for the past 10 years I have worked in a pupil referral unit (PRU) working closely with students that have SEN needs, extreme behaviour, are medically unwell, have extreme anxiety, are under CAMHS, social, emotional and mental health (SEMH), emotionally based school avoidance (EBSA), bereavement and severe mental health. Alongside also teaching English, Maths, food technology and ICT.
Professionally I also hold qualifications with designated safeguarding lead level 3 (DSL),
ELSA, behaviour management and lead for alternative provision.
I feel passionately about every child achieving both academic and personal growth. I love working with children and making learning fun working closely on resilience, self-
confidence, well-being, abilities, skills, relationships and making every student feel valued
and safe.
In my spare time I love spending quality time with my family, going to the gym, doing beauty treatments (Mainly nails), travelling, going for long forest walks with my Golden Retriever Luna and baking.
I feel privileged to be working with Ngaged where the students are always prioritised.
Jo Lovell
Mentor and Academic Tutor(QTS)
jo@ngagedltd.uk
I qualified as a teacher 26 years ago, and have worked with children and young adults in a variety of settings. I initially taught English as a Foreign language at summer schools in Kent and Eastbourne, then went on to teach PE and Art and also take on the role as Head of Year in secondary schools.
I have spent much of my career working with vulnerable students, many of whom find the school setting extremely difficult or find that they are unable to access mainstream at all.
I enjoy seeing children and young adults overcome hurdles and see the progress they can make whether this be socially or academically. I enjoy building a rapport with young people and opening their eyes to what they can achieve.
I have a wide range of interests. In my spare time, I continue to enjoy all aspects of sport . I was a county squash player in the past, and now play regularly after not playing for about 15 years! I am a Level 2 qualified coach, coaching both children and adults. I also enjoy paddleboarding and kayaking but mainly in the summer when the weather is a bit warmer! I am a bit of a foodie, I love trying new things and am always on the look out for new places to test out.
Talisa Ross
Mentor
talisa@ngagedltd.uk
During the last 16 years I have had the privilege of working in various sectors from private nursery’s, NHS hospitals, rehabilitation centres and supporting the elderly and their families with palliative care.
Throughout my career I have also brought up my own 4 children who are 19, 16, 11 and 6. With two of my children being neurodiverse, I have always had to learn something new each day and understand all their different processes and think on my feet in order to support their ever changing needs. Throughout these times I came to realise how dependent people are on the services in the community and how lucky we are to meet these wonderful individuals who don't just support neurodiverse children but support families holistically so they can all still lead independent, healthy and fulfilled lives.
I have now found myself in a position where I am able to use my experience and knowledge to give back to other families and feel so proud to be able to join Ngaged Ltd.'s fantastic team and mentor young people who are in similar positions and bring my knowledge, empathy and understanding to the role.
Joanna Gray
Mentor
joannagrey@ngagedltd.uk
After reading history at Oxford, I spent the first 20 years of my career working as a journalist and magazine editor, recently writing over 25 Little Books of...Positivity / Empowerment / Courage etc for Quadrille, a branch of Penguin Random House.
During 2021 I developed The Confidence Course which I delivered after lockdown in three secondary schools. The children I worked with responded well to the ideas and techniques involved with establishing and embedding confidence.
I now combine writing and mentoring. I love working with Ngaged students because there is time to fully understand and support their educational and social journey. It is a privilege to work with such a promising group of young people.
I live in the Hampshire countryside with my husband, three sons, dog, cat and a permanent heap of laundry.
Lewis Tapley
SEN and Senior Tutor
lewis@ngagedltd.uk
For the last four years i have been working in a specialised SEN school supporting pupils in groups and 1-1 breaking down barriers and building relationships with young people in the hope that they will go on to lead a happy and successful life after education and providing academic support.
Before this I worked as an activity leader in holiday parks doing Climbing, Archery, Fencing and Target shooting.
I love all sports and am a huge Arsenal Fan! I have been playing football since I was able to kick a ball and during the summer I play cricket. When I'm not playing I'm usually watching any sport I can find or listening to Podcasts.
Benjamin Holton
benjamin@ngagedltd.uk
Hi I’m Ben. I’ve worked in various roles in schools for the last 10 years. In that time I’ve had the privilege of working with so many different young people and thoroughly enjoyed helping each one to realise just how important they are and just how much they can accomplish. I firmly believe that every single child is uniquely important.
In my spare time I am a big board game fan. I have a collection of over 100 different games that I frequently play with my wife and friends. I also like to create my own games as well as writing fantasy books. I simply adore fantasy books like Lord of the Rings and I am a total sucker for dragons. I love movies, books, games, and if there are dragons involved, I’m there.
Our Managers
Anna Holton
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Joe Cook
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Rachael Skerritt
Attendance Officer and Administration Lead
rachael@ngagedltd.uk
Hi, I'm Rachael, I have worked in various admin roles over the last 14 years since leaving school, working for a national home improvement company and also a mortgage provider before starting my role with Ngaged Ltd. I also qualified as a hairdresser shortly after welcoming my eldest child 10 years ago.
I have worked with Ngaged for almost 3 years and have watched the company grow and expand not only in the number of students we support but also the number of tutors and mentors who have joined the team. I love working alongside so many people who all have the same ethos and goal to help and support young people. I have completed a number of training courses during my time with Ngaged so far, including an attendance officer course.
In my spare time I like to spend time with my partner and our three children making memories, going on holiday, reading a good book and seeing family and friends.
Laura Kimber
HR Manager
laura@ngagedltd.uk
Hi – I am Laura Kimber and I hold a Masters degree in Personnel & Development, which underlines my academic prowess and commitment to continuous learning. I am a Human Resources (HR) Professional with a rich background spanning 17 years in the field. My journey in HR has been marked by dedication, expertise, and a commitment to fostering positive workplaces.
With a solid foundation in HR generalist practices, I have successfully navigated the dynamic landscape of human resources across many sectors. I have worked in the Education sector for a couple of years now and most recently worked within an SEN school, which is where my passion to work with young people with additional needs was born. I am committed to supporting and improving the life chances of young people by working with and supporting Ngaged Ltd to achieve its values.
Since joining Ngaged Ltd I have enjoyed working with an incredible team of tutors and mentors who truly do all they can to help young people be the best they can be.
Outside of Ngaged Ltd I enjoy spending time with my family.
Simon Tomlinson
Facilities Manager
simon@ngagedltd.uk
I started working with my dad on a building site when I was still at school, during holidays and weekends. I've always loved creating things and achieving a sense of satisfaction when a task is completed well. I've worked on building sites, doing groundwork, bricklaying, plastering and all general building work. I went on to qualify as an electrician in my thirties. Before starting with Ngaged, I worked at Sunseeker, building the engine-rooms of multi-million pound yachts.
I am now supporting the staff and students at Ngaged with carpentry, electrical and general building work. In my spare time, I like running and spending time with my family and pets.
Rowan Stallard
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Carol Murphy
Finance Manager (MAAT AATQB)
carol@ngagedltd.uk
I am a certified AAT Accountant with over 30 years of bookkeeping, payroll and accountancy experience. I am thrilled to be putting all of this to good use in my role of managing the day to day finances, alongside developing a finance department for Ngaged Ltd.
I was attracted to the nurturing ethos at Ngaged Ltd. Being a late diagnosed neurodivergent, I love how safe and supported my working environment is.
I have experience of supporting young people after offering supported lodgings and e-beds to young people who were coming out of Foster Care or had a breakdown in relations within the family home.
In my spare time I enjoy painting and drawing and spending time with my family and three sight hounds.
