Where?

She’s vice principal of business strategy at Darlington’s Education Village.

Why?

Education Village is a federation of three schools, primary, secondary and special, co-located on a single campus that opened in April 2006. Sarah was the first appointment to the new federation, having previously worked in the local authority, and became an instrumental member of the seven-strong leadership team. She is well-respected among the other 260 staff as a senior leader without qualified teacher status.

Sarah has delegated headship responsibilities for finance, HR, strategic planning, governance and data across the three schools. She’s also working on 21st Century Schools and Next Practice leadership projects. She’s even begun a number of international projects including a leadership initiative in China assessing education systems across different countries.

As well as the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH), Sarah is also a part-qualified accountant and holds an MBA in public sector management. Sarah now works part time for the Education Village and combines this with consultant support for other schools and for the National College for School Leadership, as their school business management advocate for the North East.

Nominated by

Dame Dela Smith, Education Village’s principal and chief executive. Dame Dela recommended Sarah for NPQH because of her passion and ambition for leadership in the wider context of education and learning.

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