SYDENHAM - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Assistant Headteacher / Designated Safeguarding Lead
- Designated Safeguarding Lead ( DSL )
Job Titles:
- Attendance and Welfare Coordinator
My name is Kate Slater-Vance and I am a mother of two girls. I was born in Canada and have been living in the UK for nearly 20 years. As I didn't experience the school system here myself, I am very interested in understanding more about the Secondary system and participating in my ​children's Secondary School journey. This is why I became a Parent Governor at Sydenham School in 2022.
My background in Account and Project Management, within the Advertising industry, has given me lots of experience working in diverse teams delivering challenging client briefs. I am enthusiastic, focused and want to help drive continuous improvement within our school and surrounding community. I am eager to support policy, objectives and targets at Sydenham School and have recently taken on the role of SEND Governor.
Outside of work, I am active in the Penge Community, enjoy traveling, the outdoors and time with family & friends.
Job Titles:
- Assistant Headteacher - Maths and Digital Technologies
I am an academic Consultant Neurologist working in multiple sclerosis. I currently lead a number of research projects to understand why people get MS, and some of the problems that people might encounter with treatments. I studied medicine at Clare College Cambridge and University College London. I completed my PhD in 2013.
I have a keen interest in equality and diversity in medicine and academia. I am deputy Academic Lead for EDI within QMUL Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry. I have also provided input into EDI strategies for external organisations, such as the MS Society.
Outside of work I spend much of my time looking after my two daughters, and enjoy swimming and playing the cello when I get a chance.
Job Titles:
- Assistant Headteacher - Teaching and Learning
Volker has worked in the Banking industry in Europe, Asia and the UK for well over 30 years. He has two teenage boys who sparked his interest in education and before joining Sydenham School he has been a governor at another school in London.
Given his professional background, Volker joined the Finance & Resources Committee which he now co-chairs. His main interest is to support the development of the link between the curriculum and the finance capabilities of the school and the development of additional revenue streams.
His personal interests include outdoor activities and sports, primarily football and cricket.