OUR STAFF
SLT and Teaching Department Heads
| Jennifer Burnett, Deputy Head of Operations and Pastoral |
![]() As Deputy Head of Operations and Pastoral, my vision is to ensure that the day-to-day running of Twyford is underpinned by a culture of care, clarity, and consistency. I aim to bring a calm, solutions-focused approach that enables both staff and pupils to thrive within a well-organised and supportive environment. I see my role as central to strengthening Twyford’s position as a leading prep school by aligning operational efficiency with a deeply embedded pastoral ethos, ensuring that every child feels known, valued, and safe. I am particularly passionate about fostering a school community built on mutual respect, kindness, and high expectations. My work is shaped by a belief that excellent pastoral care is not separate from academic excellence, but the very foundation to it. These values and aspirations are all the more meaningful to me as a parent with children at Twyford. Experiencing the school from both a professional and personal perspective gives me a deeper understanding of what matters most to families and a daily reminder of the importance of getting it right. I want Twyford not only to succeed in the present but to flourish as the school of choice for years to come; a place where children are inspired, nurtured, and equipped for the future. |
| Adam Cleaver, Head of Boarding |
![]() As Head of Boarding, I have the joy and privilege of leading our dedicated house team in creating a true home away from home: a warm, welcoming environment where children feel safe, valued, and free to be themselves. Our evenings are filled with laughter, fun, and the kind of friendships that help children grow into kind, resilient, and independent young people. With over a decade of experience in boarding, I’m passionate about building a vibrant and inclusive community where every child is known and supported. Our boarding house is grounded on the values of kindness, respect, honesty, trust, and community. These values are lived out daily and help shape confident, grounded individuals. Whether it’s a quiet moment of reassurance or the excitement of a themed house night, I’m always on hand to ensure each child feels seen, heard, and ready to thrive, both at Twyford and beyond. In my time away from the house I love to spend time outdoors with my wife and two daughters. I'm an American football fanatic, keen runner, and enjoy boxing and live music. |
| Darren Ford, Head of Pupil Development, Head of Maths |
![]() I believe that every child can succeed in maths, and my role at Twyford is all about helping every pupil realise that potential. I want children to feel challenged, supported and inspired—to see maths not as a subject to fear, but as a rich, exciting language of patterns, connections and problem-solving. Whether we’re exploring number fluency or working through complex reasoning tasks, I strive to bring a sense of fun and energy to every lesson. I feel incredibly lucky to lead such an outstanding maths department. Each teacher on the team brings their own unique style and approach to the classroom, and together we offer pupils a rich and varied learning experience. Every child will have the opportunity to learn from each of these teachers, benefiting from a wealth of strategies and perspectives. That being said, we’re united by a shared passion for maths and a love of problem solving that runs through everything we do. Over the past few years, I’ve been proud to develop a tailored problem-solving curriculum at Twyford, ensuring our pupils are not only fluent and accurate in their methods but also thoughtful and resilient in how they tackle challenges. My aim is to nurture confident, curious mathematicians who can think independently and enjoy the subject for its own sake. As part of this, we offer everything from targeted support to national competitions and enrichment opportunities, giving every child the chance to shine. For me, it’s about helping to shape an environment where children feel safe to take risks, enjoy learning, and leave Twyford not just well-prepared, but excited for what comes next. |
| Jenny Fowles, Lead Matron |
![]() When the opportunity arose to apply for the Lead Matron role at Twyford, I was delighted to combine my nursing background with my passion for working with children. Twyford is a very kind and caring environment, and I feel privileged to be part of a community that places such importance on the wellbeing of its pupils. I feel fortunate now to lead a team of dedicated and experienced matrons and school nurses who are deeply committed to providing compassionate care and support to the pupils entrusted to us. My goal is to ensure that every child feels safe, supported, and able to access medical help when needed, while also working closely with parents to help children continue their education with confidence—whether they face long-term medical needs or occasional short-term healthcare challenges. |
| Tim Goldsmith, Head of Digital Learning |
![]() As Head of Digital Learning, I strive to create a bridge between Twyford’s rich educational traditions and the incredible opportunities of the digital future. My approach is to integrate technology to enhance the excellent teaching that defines our school. My passion lies in using digital tools to spark curiosity and creativity, empowering our children to become confident creators, not just passive consumers of information. My vision is for a dynamic learning environment where pupils express their ideas in innovative ways, all while developing a strong sense of responsible digital citizenship. By fostering these future-ready skills, we strengthen Twyford’s standing as a forward-thinking school, preparing our pupils to become adaptable, inspiring, and creative people, ready to thrive in a technology driven world. |
| Eloise Goldstraw, Form Teacher, Head of Year 4 |
![]() As a Form Teacher, Head of Year 4, and Head of Bees, I feel incredibly privileged to play a part in shaping the educational journey of the children I work with at Twyford School. My greatest priority is to instill a genuine love of learning, one that sparks curiosity, builds confidence, and stays with children for life. I believe that every child at Twyford School deserves to feel inspired, supported, and empowered in their learning. As Head of Year 4, my aim is to foster a warm and nurturing environment where children feel confident to explore ideas, ask questions, and embrace new challenges. For me, education is far more than the acquisition of knowledge. It is about equipping each child with the skills, values, and mindset they need to thrive both now and in the future. Being a pupil at Twyford provides them with the strongest possible foundation for that journey. Pastoral care is at the heart of everything I do. I am passionate about supporting the emotional wellbeing of every child, helping them to feel seen, heard, and valued. Whether it is through quiet conversations, encouraging words, or simply being a consistent presence, I aim to build strong, trusting relationships that allow children to flourish both academically and personally. Whether I am leading a lesson, supporting my year group, or guiding the Bees, I strive to bring energy, empathy, and encouragement to everything I do. Watching children grow into confident, curious learners is the most rewarding part of my role, and it is what motivates me every single day. |
| Rosie Gwynn, Head of Year 3 |
![]() Year 3 marks a key transition in a child’s journey through Twyford and I feel privileged to help guide our pupils through this important stage. It is a year filled with new experiences, opportunities and growing independence as they embark on this journey. I am passionate about helping children build strong foundations, both academically and personally, for their time in the Prep school and beyond. My approach centres on creating a kind, inclusive, supportive environment where every child is celebrated for who they are and inspired to learn. I aim to foster a love of learning through a rich and creative curriculum, encouraging children to become curious, thoughtful learners with a genuine interest in the world around them. Pastoral care is at the heart of all I do and I believe in nurturing children not only as learners, but as individuals discovering their own strengths and passions. At Twyford, we know we are not just teaching values for school life; we are helping to shape values for life after education. Through the experiences children have in Year 3, my hope is that they feel empowered to take on challenges, explore new ideas, and begin to understand the kind of people they want to become. Having taught Year 3 for a number of years, I truly value the joy, imagination and potential of this age group. It is a privilege to play a part in this exciting and formative chapter of their journey. |
| David Hall, Director of Music |
![]() As Director of Music, my role is to ensure that every child at Twyford has the necessary experience, skills and literacy to study music at Senior School and to enjoy making music as a lifelong pursuit. I organise a huge number of concerts, services and events throughout the school year, and I oversee and support our team of visiting music teachers. As a multi-instrumentalist, writer and composer, I have diverse taste in music. I love writing and arranging music for the choirs, the string groups, the wind band, the jazz band, House Singing and the school musicals. My favourite day of each term is the day spent accompanying children in their ABRSM exams, closely followed by results day. In my 17 years at Twyford, I have forged strong links with the local community. Twyford children have performed in professional opera at the Grange Festival, in concert with the Twyford Singers and the Black Cat Big Band and in workshops with other schools. These special events are often treasured memories for life. |
| Conner Handstock, Head of Drama |
![]() As Head of Drama, my role is to cultivate and expand the dramatic and performance-based opportunities available to pupils at Twyford. This includes everything from ambitious, large-scale school productions to intimate showcases that celebrate individual achievements in the performing arts. I lead and oversee the delivery of LAMDA qualifications and am currently broadening our dance provision, firmly believing that dance is a vital component of a rich and well-rounded performing arts curriculum. Ask any pupil, parent, or colleague, and they’ll likely speak of my unwavering commitment to drama and the wider performing arts. I view the subject as not only educational but essential - a discipline that nurtures invaluable life skills such as public speaking, resilience, collaboration, leadership, and empathy. As a trained performer, I frequently model techniques and approaches in my lessons, leading by example - a teaching style that I believe my pupils both enjoy and respect. |
| Pippa Higham, Assistant Head |
![]() Having worked at Twyford School for the past nine years, I have always believed that happy children learn best. This belief is at the centre of my approach to pastoral care and shapes the way I work with children, families and staff each day. For me, pastoral care is about far more than supporting children when difficulties arise; it is about creating an environment where every child feels safe, valued, understood and confident enough to thrive. I am passionate about building strong relationships with pupils and ensuring that they know there is always someone who will listen, support and champion them throughout their time at school. |
| Lianne Hinxman, Head of Art |
![]() My vision is to inspire children at Twyford to think creatively, express themselves confidently, and develop a lifelong appreciation for the visual arts. I aim to cultivate a classroom environment where every pupil feels valued, encouraged to explore their artistic ability, and supported as they take creative risks. |
| Katy Iliffe, Head of Year 6 and Head of English |
![]() As Head of Year 6 and Head of English, I feel incredibly lucky to work with children at such a formative and exciting stage of their school journey. Year 6 is a time of real growth - academically, emotionally, and socially - and I see my role as helping each child step into their potential with confidence, curiosity, and a strong sense of self and their core values. My love of reading has been a constant throughout my life, and it is a joy to share that passion with the children in my role as Head of English. Whether we are diving into a novel, exploring poetry, or crafting our own stories, I aim to create a classroom where language comes alive and every child feels inspired to find their voice, no matter their ability. English opens doors to imagination and possibility, and I want every pupil to experience that magic. In my roles, I aim to foster an environment where children feel confident to take risks and are genuinely excited by their learning. Whether I am shaping the curriculum or offering pastoral support, my focus is always on helping each and every child flourish. |
| Fiona Kelly, Head of Future Schools, Head of TPR |
![]() At the heart of my role on the Senior Leadership Team is a deep belief in the potential of every child. Our pupils are curious, capable, and full of promise—and prep school is a time for them to explore, take risks, and discover what truly excites them. I feel privileged to teach across Years 5 to 8, getting to know each pupil as an individual and helping them grow in confidence and character. I work closely with families to find the senior schools where their children will thrive, offering thoughtful, personalised guidance throughout the process. By building strong relationships with senior schools and staying closely connected to their evolving landscapes, I aim to ensure every pupil takes their next step with pride and purpose. As Head of Theology, Philosophy and Religion (TPR), I lead a subject that encourages deep thinking, reflection, and meaningful discussion. TPR helps pupils understand and appreciate the richness of different religions and worldviews, while fostering tolerance, respect, and empathy. I believe in creating space for pupils to question, debate, and evaluate ideas in a safe and stimulating environment. I’m also passionate about offering varied approaches to learning and assessment, so that every child has the opportunity to express their understanding and show what they are truly capable of. I am a long-standing member of the Senior Leadership Team, and with 15 years at Twyford I use my experience to look forward and support with the future development of the school. |
| Gregg Lewis, Head of Sport |
![]() I have had the privilege of serving as Head of Sport at Twyford Prep School for over 25 years, and my passion for school sport remains as strong today as it was when I first began. Sport has always been a central part of life at Twyford, and I’m proud to have contributed to the school’s enviable reputation for sporting excellence. I believe that sport should be both competitive and fun. It’s about giving every child the foundations, opportunities, and environment to challenge themselves across a range of sports, and to see where that journey might take them beyond Twyford. Sport teaches so much more than physical skills: it’s about teamwork, resilience, fair play, friendship, and mutual support. Throughout my time here, I’ve always embraced change, whether that’s through new coaching methods, integrating technology into our teaching, adapting to the evolving competitive landscape, or simply finding fresh ways to keep pupils engaged and inspired. Twyford’s sporting culture is something truly special, and I’m proud to lead a team that helps every pupil find their place, their sense of belonging, within it, whatever their level or ambition. |
| Olaf Mathar, Deputy Head Academic |
![]() At Twyford, I believe that every child deserves an education that challenges, nurtures, and inspires. My approach is rooted in evidence-based practice, and I work to ensure that our curriculum is broad, rigorous, and responsive – helping pupils grow their intellectual maps across a wide range of disciplines. I want children to leave Twyford not only with strong academic foundations, but also with the confidence to persevere, the curiosity to think critically, and the compassion to care for the world around them. I support staff through structured CPD cycles and a culture of peer coaching, helping us continually refine our practice and deliver the best possible education. I believe that empathy and kindness must sit alongside ambition and high standards, and I aim to lead with both. Whether through curriculum development, pastoral care, or professional growth, I want every member of staff to feel valued and empowered to provide the very best for the pupils in their care. Much of my own wellbeing comes from a breadth of interests – sport, theatre, academic study, and public speaking – and I hope to foster that same breadth in our pupils, so they leave Twyford ready to thrive in every aspect of life. Twyford’s strength lies in its people – pupils, staff, parents – and I nurture this community with warmth, clarity, and a belief in partnership. |
| Jo McCusker, Head of Hub |
![]() With 19 years as a SENCO and now Head of Hub at Twyford, I am dedicated in making sure that every child with SEND can truly thrive here. I have responsibility for the day-to-day implementation of our SEND policy and work closely with colleagues to embed inclusive teaching across the curriculum. I oversee the implementation of support plans, monitor each pupil’s progress, and collaborate with educational psychologists and health professionals to provide effective, coordinated support. I value strong home school partnerships and work closely with families, recognising them as experts in their children’s lives. I maintain open, honest communication through formal review meetings, regular catchups, and responsive dialogue so families always feel heard and involved. This builds the community connection we really want at Twyford. Inclusion here isn’t just a policy, it’s the golden thread that runs through everything we do, for all aspects of school life. By listening, celebrating each step forward, and adapting support as pupils grow, I strive to create a culture where every child is seen, supported, and given the opportunity to succeed. My aim is that all pupils flourish with confidence and resilience, equipped for both their future education and life beyond. |
| Gareth Millar, Head of Year 7 |
![]() As Head of Year 7, I feel incredibly privileged to guide students through a pivotal stage of their school journey. My approach centres on fostering a vibrant and inclusive community where every child feels safe, valued, and genuinely able to be themselves. It is a joy to watch them explore their identities and build confidence within an environment that celebrates their individuality, helping them to seize every opportunity and reach their full potential. Having been a part of the Twyford community for three years, I truly believe this is a very special school. The final two years here are a significant time for students, and I am dedicated to supporting your children as they navigate these exciting and formative years. Teaching both English and maths across various year groups allows me to witness firsthand the remarkable growth students achieve as they approach their final years at Twyford. |
| Tom Parsons, Assistant Head, Head of Year 8, DSL |
![]() When I arrived at Twyford nine years ago, I was instantly taken aback by its warm, unique environment. I knew I wanted to stay, and I feel privileged to now help shape the school's direction through my various roles. As the Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), ensuring our children are safe is my priority. Twyford has an outstanding ethos of pastoral care; our staff nurture the children so well that they quickly notice and support anyone in need. I thoroughly enjoy keeping abreast of statutory guidance to ensure we are fully compliant and expertly trained. Heading up Year 8 at Saxon Court is incredibly rewarding. It is a time of rapid maturity, and it is a pleasure to see our pupils relish leadership roles as influential role models. Because the final year can be pressured due to exams, we focus heavily on providing robust support, culminating in an enriching end-of-year programme that prepares them for their next schools. Whether teaching French to the senior years or coaching boys' sport, I love sharing my passions in the classroom and on the field. I also work closely with the Twyford Parents’ Association and value our expanding community links, particularly our partnership with Twyford St Mary’s Primary School. No two days are the same, and that variety keeps me sharply focused. Twyford is a special place led by a forward-thinking Leadership Team, and I am proud to be a member of this thriving community. |
| Kathryn Pillar, Bursar |
![]() I’ve been the Bursar at Twyford School since January 2021, bringing with me over a decade of experience in the independent education sector. I oversee the school’s finances, estate, HR, compliance, and commercial operations - essentially everything that keeps the School running smoothly behind the scenes (except the actual teaching, which I wisely leave to the experts! Known for my kindness, professionalism, and thorough approach, I combine financial expertise with a holistic understanding of school life. I’m a multitasker with high expectations and a determination to get things done. My vision for Twyford is simple: I want it to be a place where children, parents, and staff genuinely love to spend time and make friends for life. A place where we look out for one another, especially when the world throws its inevitable curve balls. I’m passionate about growing the School’s commercial enterprises; developing day camps and residential programmes outside of term time, so Twyford becomes a one-stop shop for families. A place where we can always proudly say: “It’s All Here.” Outside of work, I swap my calculator for cycling shoes. I’m a keen triathlete and am kept on my toes by my Airedale Terrier. |
| Steve Riddle, Assistant Head |
![]() As Assistant Head at Twyford, I’m passionate about creating an environment where every child feels inspired to learn, grow, and thrive. My approach aims to create a culture of curiosity, kindness, and high expectations — not just for pupils, but for staff and the wider school community. I believe that strong relationships and clear values are the foundation of great learning. I’m particularly passionate about sport and the role it plays in shaping character. Whether on the pitch, court, or track, sport teaches resilience, teamwork, discipline, and joy —values that extend far beyond the games themselves and into every aspect of school life. In my role, I work to support colleagues across departments, helping to shape a school where innovation and tradition blend seamlessly. I believe in upholding the valued traditions of Twyford while embracing new ideas and technologies that prepare our pupils for a rapidly changing world. |
| Kelly Rose, Head of Science, Head of Girls |
![]() As Head of Science, I want to inspire all children to be curious about the world around them and realise that science can help them explain what they see and experience when it comes to our planet and the stars beyond. My vision is that children should understand they have a responsibility as the next generation to nurture their planet and learn from current research. I lead a close knit department who have the children at the forefront of what we do, we work collaboratively to look at new ideas and initiatives and support each other so the children get the best experience of Science possible. Twyford Science department work across all year groups to shape children’s love of science and the children get to experience science, some of which I have not seen elsewhere. With my other hat on; as Head of Senior Girls, I am passionate about girls learning and experiences as they grow into young women. I have developed a bespoke program from year 6-8 where girls meet with me to explore issues they will encounter growing up. This jigsaws in nicely with PSHE and gives the girls a place to let their voice be heard in a unique way. |
| Sam Russell-Sealey, Head of Design, Technology and Engineering |
![]() As Head of Design, Technology and Engineering, my aim is to inspire confidence and curiosity in pupils, helping them see the value and excitement of this subject beyond the classroom. I want students to leave each lesson not only with practical skills but with a mindset that encourages problem-solving, experimentation, and creative thinking. By fostering this enthusiasm early, I hope to encourage many to consider pursuing the subject into higher education and, ultimately, into careers where design and technology make a real-world impact. In leading the department, I bring a broad perspective on both traditional and emerging technologies—whether it's hand tools, electronics, or 3D printing—and how they can be harnessed to solve meaningful problems. Our workshop is exceptionally well equipped for a prep school, and I see it as a unique opportunity to provide pupils with hands-on experiences that are typically reserved for much older students. At heart, I’m a bit of a tech nerd, and I aim to bring that genuine passion into every project, building a culture where innovation, resilience, and curiosity are central to how we teach and learn. |
| Claire Smith, Pre-Prep Deputy Head Pastoral, Year 2 Teacher, Head of PSHE, DDSL |
![]() At Twyford, we believe in providing every child with the most complete education, not just academically, but emotionally, culturally, and physically. As Deputy Lead Pastoral, I am committed to supporting the emotional wellbeing of our students, ensuring that every one of them has the foundation they need to live their best life for themselves and others. Pastoral care plays an integral role in this school-wide belief. Working closely with our dedicated pastoral team, I help to create a safe and nurturing environment where students feel supported in managing day-to-day concerns. We also focus on identifying those who may be struggling more quietly, making sure no child is left behind in receiving the care they need. Through early intervention, strong relationships and ongoing support, we aim to build resilience and confidence in every child, empowering them to thrive in all areas of school life and beyond. |
| Myke Smith, Head of Adventure |
![]() As Head of Adventure at Twyford School, I believe that learning extends far beyond the classroom, and that some of the most powerful and impactful learning happens when children step beyond their comfort zones - provided they feel safe, supported, and encouraged every step of the way. My vision is to create experiences that challenge, inspire, and empower pupils - helping them discover their strengths, build resilience, and develop a deep sense of curiosity about the world around them. Through leading the school’s residentials and extra-curricular programme, I aim to offer experiences that are not only exciting and memorable, but also deeply developmental. Whether it’s a mountain hike, a team-building challenge, nights under canvas, or a quiet moment around a campfire, these experiences are designed to foster independence, collaboration, and character. I see my work as integral to Twyford’s mission of nurturing well-rounded, courageous learners - encapsulating the school ethos of ‘It’s All Here’. By embedding adventure into the fabric of school life, we help pupils develop the independence, teamwork, and adaptability that will serve them far beyond their prep school years. A core part of my philosophy is helping children embrace challenge without fear of failure. I want every pupil to understand that setbacks are not only natural but essential to growth. By creating a culture where effort, reflection, and perseverance are celebrated, we can help children develop the confidence to take risks and learn from every experience. Looking ahead, I hope to expand our programme with new partnerships, more diverse experiences, and a greater emphasis on character and leadership development. I’m passionate about outdoor education and experiential learning, and I’m driven by the values of courage, self-belief, kindness, and curiosity. Ultimately, I want every Twyford pupil to leave with a strong sense of self, a love of the outdoors, and the confidence to take on life’s challenges with open minds and courage. |
| Kealey Taylor, Head of Pre Prep, DDSL |
![]() At the heart of Pre-Prep lies the belief that when curiosity is ignited, values are nurtured and children feel a true sense of belonging, extraordinary futures begin.. As Head of Pre-Prep, I have the privilege of leading this vibrant and ambitious community, shaping both the daily rhythm of school life and the strategic vision that enables our youngest learners to thrive. Drawing on a wealth of leadership experience across Early Years and Pre-Prep, I am passionate about fostering a culture where academic excellence, exceptional pastoral care and the wonder of childhood exist in harmony. At the centre of my approach is a commitment to meaningful relationships with children, families and the wider Twyford community, creating a place where each child feels known, valued and inspired. Working alongside an outstanding team, I champion an environment where individuality is celebrated, confidence is nurtured and children are empowered to flourish as curious learners, compassionate friends and courageous contributors. I believe these earliest years are among the most formative in a child’s life. Through woodland adventures, outdoor exploration and moments of discovery in the classroom, children are immersed in experiences that inspire awe, spark imagination and cultivate a lifelong love of learning. It is here that confidence takes root, character begins to blossom and children develop the independence, resilience and sense of purpose that will accompany them throughout their Twyford journey and beyond. My vision is to ensure these foundation years provide the building blocks from which every child can continue to grow, thrive and embrace school life with curiosity, confidence and joy. For me, Pre-Prep is where childhood is cherished, character is cultivated and the foundations of a complete education begin. |
| Sarah Tinsley, Deputy Lead Academic |
![]() I joined Twyford School in 2023, bringing with me a broad range of teaching experience from both the UK and abroad. From the very beginning, I was drawn to Twyford’s strong sense of community. My role as Deputy Lead Academic allows me to support the development of a creative and inspiring curriculum that helps every child flourish. I firmly believe that learning should be fun, meaningful and rooted in each child’s natural curiosity. I am passionate about creating an enriching curriculum that evolves with the interests of the children, encouraging them to explore, question and develop a lifelong love of learning. This may be through imaginative classroom experiences or carefully planned outings that make learning real and memorable. I also love the outdoors. It’s a joy to be involved in outdoor learning, discovering and exploring our wonderful outdoor space at Twyford. I believe in the importance of every child being seen, heard and valued. My goal is to help shape a learning environment where children feel confident to take risks, ask questions and be themselves. I’m proud to be involved in each stage of a child’s academic journey, from Nursery through to Year 2 and to support their growth during these crucial early years. By nurturing a strong foundation in Pre-Prep, I see my role as central to maintaining and strengthening Twyford’s reputation as a leading Prep school, one that values curiosity, discovery and adventure just as much as academic achievement. It’s a privilege to be part of a team that inspires young learners every day and to contribute to a school where learning truly comes alive. |
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