'a clear vision led by a strong team. we all have a say.'

HEADTEACHER

An experienced teacher of learners with additional and complex needs, Emily has a proven track record of quality first teaching and specialises in engaging those who are 'hard to reach and hard to place.' Born in Thornaby, proud to be from Teesside, and passionate about providing the best education for all young people in the Tees Valley, she is determined to 'narrow the gap' and create opportunities for all by implementing high standards and high expectations. 

Able to teach a number of subjects to GCSE Level, Emily has a creative, project-based approach to inspire learning for all young people. 

DIRECTOR - THE MONTANA PROJECT

Ali has worked for over 20 years rehabilitating and training horses and their humans throughout the UK. 

Qualified to UKCC Level 3 in Western Riding (one of only a handful in the UK) and also an Intelligent Horsemanship Recommended Trainer, Ali's alternative techniques often open up new pathways for young people, helping them develop success with their horses that can pass into all other aspects of their life. 

Ali strongly believes that with the correct support, people can achieve beyond their imagination - horses can offer a fantastic platform for people to see this for themselves and develop with confidence and self belief.

OFFICE MANAGER / PA

With a varied career path including a number of years spent supporting the education of children with additional needs, Susan joins Hopefields as Office Manager and PA to the Directors. A 'normal day' involves bid writing and funding applications, being the first point of contact on the telephone and providing administrative support. In her spare time, Susan is a keen gardener, musician and craftsperson. 

TEACHER OF ENGLISH

With teaching experience spanning over twenty years and across the sectors, Bev teaches English, Literacy and Historical and Cultural Studies at Hopefields. 

Passionate about providing young people with an engaging education and the opportunity to succeed, she has a wealth of experience teaching students with a range of abilities and needs. 

Committed to confidence building and improving skillsets, Bev encourages thought-provoking discussions and debates.

In her spare time, Bev likes walking her dog and visiting new places.

TEACHER OF OUTDOOR EDUCATION 

Peter is our resident NCFE tutor, and loves crafts and woodturning. 

Originally a scientist, after fifteen years teaching mainstream Science (and a further ten years as an Autism specialist) Peter has returned from retirement to help our students develop their own craft, building and horticulture skills. He has a wide range of knowledge and a thorough understanding of additional and complex needs. Peter is very patient and giving of his time, he makes learning fun in a way that all levels can reach. Peter is also known for his skip-diving abilities and as the Hopefields' general handyperson. 

TEACHER OF SCIENCE

After a long career in the automotive industry, David retrained 18 years ago as a teacher of science, specialising in Chemistry and Physics and undertaking leadership roles across the North East of England. 

David joins Hopefields as our Science Lead, teaching NCFE and GCSE Science (including triple award) and is our resident tractor driver.

Outside of Hopefields, David enjoys classic motorcycling, ancient tractors, and is interested in developing our green energy, sustainability guidelines and recycling usage.

  TEACHER OF HIGH NEEDS

After gaining a degree in Performing Arts, Steph worked for an Autism charity, which became the turning point in her career. Steph returned to University to study a PCET and achieved QTLS. With over six years of supply education, Steph has worked in over 30 schools from Newcastle to Northallerton and everywhere in between. After a stint as an Advanced Teaching Assistant at a specialist school in North Yorkshire, Steph joins Hopefields as our HLTA from September 2021.

Steph has a passion for the arts, literature and loves any sort of creativity. As a massive animal lover, Steph enjoys her spare time checking in with her Pig, Wilbur.

  TEACHER OF HUMANITIES

Andy has over 20 years experience teaching humanities across Teesside teaching a range of ages and abilities.  His early career was spent at the British Geological Survey and within the civil engineering sector.  

Andy joins Hopefields eager to share his enthusiasm and build a wider connection with the world around us. 

An intrepid geographer and explorer, Andy enjoys hiking with family and friends; combining his love of travel and the natural environment.  

LEARNING SUPPORT

Jolene is currently completing her Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Specialist Schools. She joined Hopefields in January 2022 to facilitate the learning and social needs of students across KS3 and 4.

In her spare time, Jolene likes working out at the gym and walking her two lurchers, Peggy and Skye.

VOCATIONAL LEARNING LEAD

Cameron worked as an electrician for 4 years before getting into teaching. He began his teaching career at an alternative provision, working with learners who had disengaged with learning, alongside completing a degree in Sport. Cameron wishes to continue his education, completing a PGCE and developing as a teacher of learners with additional needs. 

In his spare time, Cameron enjoys playing rugby, as well as football, golf and swimming. Cameron also enjoys spending time on walks with his dog, Toby.