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Academy Committee

Thorpedene's Academy Committee is made up of the following members: 

Stephen Tollworthy - Chair Of Governors

  • Worked in Advertising, Creative Director responsible for all creative output and adhering to budgets
  • On the SBC Education Board Panel
  • On the SBC Admissions Panel
  • Been Pastoral Team leader at local church
  • Lives in Westcliff and is passionate about achieving the best possible outcome for the students in our area

Laura Tuskin - Vice Chair

  • Secondary School English Teacher for over 12 years in a local secondary school. Experience teaching children across all Key Stages from 1-5.
  • Would love to see the implementation of a mandatory mental health and well-being curriculum to be formally taught and featured in all schools, for all children. 
  • Every child deserves to be given the strategies for understanding, reflecting and dealing with their emotions and feelings from a young age and I am enjoying my work/research on a provision and program that can be delivered in schools. 

Carly Quick Crockford

  • Parent of 5 (4 currently in SECAT schools)
  • 20 years experience in finance and accounting.
  • Moved to Southend 3 years ago and have never looked back.
  • Interests include health and fitness, reading and having 4 boys it is inevitable that I also like football.
  • Challenge for this year is researching childrens mental health and the effects of childhood trauma on development.

Steph Frost

  • Headteacher at Thorpedene Primary School & Nursery
  • BA Hons in Primary Education 
  • Over 17 years experience in schools in Southend 
  • Specialist Leader in Education working alongside schools in Southend 
  • I am committed to ensuring the best interests of every child are the heart of our school and to ensuring that every child is nurtured and challenged to achieve their true potential 

Jo Matthews

  • Class Teacher at Thorpedene, currently working in EYFS.
  • Parent of two children at Thorpedene School.
  • During my 10+ years here, I have worked with and supported many pupils across both KS1 and KS2.
  • I am passionate about creating fun and exciting learning opportunities to enhance the success of all pupils. 
  • I believe the saying ‘It takes a village to raise a child’ and feel it is important to establish positive and supportive relationships within both the local and school communities.

Mike Wild

  • two children attending SECAT schools
  • 9 years in the Royal Navy followed by various senior positions with the food manufacturing industry
  • Believe education should be stretching but also have lots of fun and smiles along the journey. School should be something all children enjoy and get the most out of
  • Keen gardener and football supporter, manage my sons U11 soccer team

Laura Crow

  • Parent of three children (all within SECAT) 
  • Over ten year's experience within Further Education providing information, advice and guidance for young adults and adults. 
  • Previous experience of working alongside external agencies within the community for the benefit of the student/public. 
  • My aim is to encourage the growth of diversity within education and beyond. "Every child is a different kind of flower and together they make a beautiful garden". 
  • I believe childhood aspirations within a primary school setting are an important driver for achievement later in life.