Trust Leadership Team
Our Academy Trust Leadership Team consists of a dedicated team of professionals who deal with the day-to-day management of all of our schools under the guidance of the Headteacher, Neil Payne.
This results in seamless management across all of the schools in the Trust, and ensures that every child benefits from our unique flexibility to share resources, expertise and best practice across the schools.
Neil Payne - Headteacher & Chief Executive Officer
We are all proud of Chulmleigh Academy Trust and our family of schools. We are here to work with you so that we, together, promote ambition and inspire all the children in our care.
Abigail Thorncroft - Deputy Headteacher
I am passionate that every child, no matter their starting point, excels at school, through an engaging and ambitious curriculum and excellent teaching. I have taught in a number of schools previously, both abroad and in London and I bring this diverse experience to the role. I have a particular interest in ensuring that the pastoral curriculum, including RSHE and PSHE, complements the academic curriculum, so that pupils leave us with the skills and qualifications that they need to thrive and flourish in their futures.
Tina Harrison - Business Manager
As Academy Business Manager I am responsible for the strategic oversight, operation and delivery of support services within the Trust.
As you can imagine the role is varied and no two days are the same. I feel it is a real privilege to work for the Trust.
Ali Pook - Head of Primary Education
I have over 30 years’ experience in education, including roles as an Advanced Skills Teacher, teacher trainer, Designated Safeguarding Lead, SENDCo, and senior leader. I also bring 10 years of experience as a headteacher across two Somerset schools and nurseries, alongside supporting other schools and contributing to the development of new and aspiring headteachers. I am proud to identify as a teacher, a leader, and a lifelong learner. I am deeply committed to fostering positive, inclusive cultures in which children, staff, and families feel a strong sense of belonging and value, and I welcome the opportunity to collaborate across all four schools within the Trust, sharing best practice and learning from others.
Louise Miller-Marshall - SENDCo
As Academy SENDCo I am committed to supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities across all schools within the Trust. My role is to ensure that all necessary considerations are in place to enable our pupils to achieve their very best and enjoy their time with us. I believe that all children have a right to achieve success and fulfilment of their potential. In addition, I am the Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead.
Claire Fallow - Estates Manager
My role within the trust is to look after all the buildings and surrounding grounds in terms of repairs and maintenance and also to ensure all items of plant and equipment have been serviced so that we meet our compliance requirements. Ultimately, I am responsible for creating a safe and well-maintained environment within which students have the best environment to learn.
I also fulfil the role of Company Secretary and Data Protection Officer.
My role is varied and very rewarding. It is the first time that I have worked in facilities management in a school and I am looking forward to contributing to such a successful Academy Trust.