Where?

St Anthony’s School in Chichester, West Sussex, where Helen is assistant head.

Why?

Helen joined St Anthony’s in 1997 as a student teacher and was struck by it. She then became a supply teacher there when she qualified. Helen joined the school formally when a permanent position as PE and art co-ordinator came up. She became assistant head in 2006, after working for five years as a PE teacher and then taking on the role of key stage 4 co-ordinator.

Helen has led and managed the school’s bids for gaining specialist status and also for developing sports provision. Her work and dedication helped St Anthony’s win specialist status in communication and interaction and secured support and funding to develop the school’s PE resources.

Helen is responsible for assessment across the school and she looks after teaching and learning and initial teacher training. She is involved in the school’s NQT induction programme and her work here has been so successful that the county of West Sussex encourages other schools to follow her model for the training and development of new teachers.

Helen is a dedicated member of the senior leadership team and colleagues agree that she is invaluable to the school.

Nominated by?

Bob Griffin, head, who says: “Helen is a great assistant head and I’m sure she will make an amazing head when the time comes. She is looking to take her National Professional Qualification for Headship in the near future and after that, the world is her oyster. I’m lucky to have Helen as part of my team. I couldn’t do without her.”

Thanks to the National College for Leadership of Schools and Children’s Services for nominating this week’s rising star. Send in your one to watch to features@tes.co.uk, including 300 words and a picture.