Lucy holds a BSc (HONS) Psychology degree from York St. John University and a PGCE from Northumbria University.

Before joining us at Aysgarth School, she taught in Dubai, where she was head of Foundation Stage, Phonics, and Science. Prior to that, she taught at St. Nicholas Primary School in West Tanfield.

Living on a farm outside Tunstall with her husband (affectionately known as Farmer Charlie in the Pre-Prep), four horses, three spaniels (Clover, Conker, and Lilly), and ducks, Lucy enjoys horse riding, running, and walking with her dogs.

Lucy is incredibly passionate about phonics and the importance of children developing a love of reading. She has implemented an SSP (Systematic Synthetic Phonics scheme) in Pre-Prep, ensuring every child's progress is monitored and supported. Her dedication to fostering a love of reading is evident through regular staff phonics training and her commitment to developing teacher subject knowledge.

Her knowledge of child pedagogy in Early Years informs Lucy's deep appreciation for the characteristics of effective learning. She strongly believes in nurturing children to be curious, determined, independent, and resilient. Lucy understands that these qualities empower children to develop skills that aid in discovery, critical thinking, creativity, problem-solving, and self-regulated learning. She advocates for play, ample time, space, and freedom for children to pursue their interests, engage in sustained shared thinking, and experience the satisfaction of overcoming challenges. These elements collectively contribute to fostering curious, creative, resourceful, and resilient learners.

With experience teaching all year groups from 3 to 11 years old, Lucy values seeing every pupil as an individual. Moving with her class to PP3 this year, she brings the advantage of knowing each student personally, allowing her to tailor lessons and objectives to keep them engaged and inspired.

Lucy's favourite quote is one from  Albert Einstein: “Everybody is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.