EXETER MATHEMATICS SCHOOL - Key Persons
Job Titles:
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
- Teacher of Maths
Aeran joined EMS in September 2021 for a two year development post.
Prior to training to become a teacher, Aeran completed a Masters in mathematics and then a PhD in Algebraic Geometry at the University of Liverpool; his recent experience of studying and teaching mathematics at university will be put to great use in developing our enhanced curriculum for EMS students.
As a mathematician Aeran has a passion for exploring the practical applications of the subject, which has led to an interest in projects as diverse as building acoustic guitars and constructing traditional English longbows.
Outside Mathematics he enjoys horticulture and exploring the beautiful Devonshire countryside with his dogs.
Job Titles:
- Governor
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Anne Oxborough began her career as an English and Drama teacher, working in secondary schools in Hampshire, Yorkshire and Devon for 16 years and joined Exeter College as a lecturer in English in 1991. In 2001 she was appointed Head of the Faculty of English, Languages and IB and was subsequently promoted to Assistant Principal in 2007, joining the College's Senior Leadership Team with overall responsibility for A Levels, IB and the College's Reach Academy. Anne was a key player in a period of rapid and dramatic improvement for Exeter College in the following years, which culminated in the achievement of Grade 1, ‘Outstanding', for Teaching and Learning, Learners' Outcomes and Leadership and Management in March 2012.
In February 2013, Anne retired following a successful career as a highly regarded, student-centred lecturer, tutor and senior leader. In recent years she has also been a governor at Isca Academy Trust in Exeter.
Anne has one adult daughter and in her spare time enjoys any number of activities, ranging from theatre and the arts to music, dog walking and tennis!
We are delighted that Anne has re-joined the board as a governor. Anne was previously Chair of Governors until August 2022 and has been a fantastic support to the school since it opened in 2014.
Job Titles:
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
- Teacher of Maths
Bethany joined EMS in September 2021. She studied Mathematics at Plymouth University before being offered a scholarship from the Institute of Mathematics & its Applications to complete her teacher training at the University of Exeter. Bethany has also trained as a chef, so boarding students will know who to turn to if they need some inspiration for recipes!
Job Titles:
- Governor
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
- Trustee of Hospiscare
Cathy joined the University of Exeter in February 2016 as the the Director of College Operations for the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences. This role involves working with the College's Dean to develop the strategy and plan for the College as well as all aspects of their implementation. Before joining the University Cathy was a senior manager at the Met Office. Here she was the Executive Head in the Business Development Directorate, responsible for the Met Office's activities in commercial sectors.
Cathy has a Chemistry degree from Southampton University. After graduation she worked for 17 years in the energy and environmental field based at a UK Government's research institution on the Harwell Campus in Oxfordshire.
Cathy is also a Trustee of Hospiscare a local charity that provides palliative care both in a Hospice and at home.
She is Director of College Operations at the College of Engineering, Mathematics and Physical Sciences at the University of Exeter.
Job Titles:
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
- Student Support Tutor
Charlotte has extensive experience working in a post-16 setting and is well aware of the issues that affect our students. As a lecturer, therapist and parent to three teenage daughters, Charlotte has the perfect balance of skills and experience needed in this role. Always ready for a new challenge, Charlotte is passionate about being able to help young people have positive life experiences.
Job Titles:
- Lead Teacher of Mathematics
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
An exceptionally experienced and highly regarded teacher, Claire joined us in 2015 from Exeter College, where she had taught successfully for the last 30 years. Her extensive knowledge and experience coupled with her openness to new ideas and collaboration make her an inspiring addition to our team.
Job Titles:
- Governor
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Dave is a commercial finance professional and currently the Director for Business Development, Innovation and Sustainability at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Trust. Prior to joining the NHS, he held senior positions in engineering, aviation and the financial services.
Dave lives on Dartmoor with his wife and two children, a dog and lots of bees (in the summer anyway!).
Dave is currently Director for Business Development, Innovation and Sustainability at the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Trust.
Job Titles:
- Pastoral Accommodation Tutor
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Devon studied Maths, Further Maths and Physics at A Level, and has since completed a Level 3 NVLQ in Supporting Teaching and Learning while working as a Teaching Assistant in a local primary school, providing support to the teacher and running academic interventions with groups of students.
Prior to joining the Boarding Team in September 2022, Devon worked as a Mentor for our Maths Circles, delivering problem-solving sessions to Year 8 and Year 9 students.
Devon grew up in North Devon and enjoys cycling in the countryside.
Devon joined the Boarding team in September 2022 after previously working as a Mentor for our Maths Circles.
Job Titles:
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Tim is the Innovation & Development Manager at ATASS Sports in Exeter.
Job Titles:
- Teacher of Physics and Lead Teacher of EMC
Ed leads the school's enriched curriculum course "The Exeter Mathematics Certificate". Having gained a first class degree in Geophysics at Liverpool University, Ed went on to complete his PhD in Theoretical Physics. Much of his work on Earth's magnetic field involved Mathematics and the programming of computers, putting him in a strong position to develop both our computing curriculum and our projects with the University of Exeter.
Ed is the lead teacher for the Exeter Mathematics Certificate (EMC). Having gained a first class degree in Geophysics at Liverpool University, Ed went on to complete his PhD in Theoretical Physics.
Job Titles:
- Staff Governor
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
- Teacher of Maths
Fiona joined EMS in January 2020, already well-versed in Maths Schools, having taught at King's College London Maths School for two years.
A straight A* student, Fiona went on to achieve a first class MMath from Durham University. She then completed her teacher training through Teach First, including a PGCE at the UCL Institute of Education.
In addition to teaching, Fiona has experience in the voluntary sector and most recently worked as a Debt Advisor with Christians Against Poverty. When not in school, she can most often be found knitting, helping out at her local church or watching Doctor Who.
Job Titles:
- Chartered Member of the CIPD
- College Sponsor Governor
- Executive Director of People and Organisational Development at Exeter College
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Gemma is a chartered member of the CIPD, the Professional body for HR and people development and currently works at Exeter College as Executive Director of People and Organisational Development.
After leaving university, Gemma began her career in Events Organisation and Marketing before taking the decision to pursue a career in Human Resources. She began studying for her Masters in Personnel and Development in 2006 before joining the NHS in 2007 where she worked in a variety of HR roles in Somerset before joining Exeter College in 2013.
She is passionate about the power of education in shaping young people's lives and empowering them to fulfil their ambitions.
Outside of work, Gemma lives in North Devon and has two small children who keep her very busy and make her laugh constantly!
Gemma is Executive Director of People and Organisational Development at Exeter College and is a chartered member of the CIPD.
Job Titles:
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
- University Sponsor Governor
Gihan has worked closely with EMS since its inception and has helped to formulate the curriculum principles of the School and the Exeter Mathematics Certificate. He also designs and runs Outreach activities for the School, supervises EMS students for project and works with EMS teachers on the design of projects such as ‘Curriculum X'.
Gihan is passionate about the work that EMS does - creating and maintaining a challenging but safe environment within which to foster mathematical and science excellence of the most able young students in the South West; extending this work to lift the aspirations and skills of young STEM students and their teachers, particularly those from WP backgrounds.
Gihan is a Senior Lecturer in Mathematics at the University of Exeter and has been working closely with EMS since it's inception.
Job Titles:
- Deputy Safeguarding Lead - Residential and SEND
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Grace has a degree in Education and Psychology. Her role is based in accommodation and school where she offers SEND and pastoral support, helping students prepare for life beyond EMS.
Grace understands the importance of resilience and aims to help students in finding a system of support that works for them. Grace is empathetic, keen to give advice when needed, listens and prioritises the students voice.
Grace's role is based in accommodation and school where she offers SEND and pastoral support, helping students prepare for life beyond EMS.
Job Titles:
- Business Manager
- Chartered Accountant
- Data Protection Officer
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Henry joins EMS with extensive experience in business and financial management and has worked for over 5 years as a Director of Finance and Business Manager in two local schools. In his previous roles he has been responsible for large school estates, leading on new developments and refurbishments.
Henry is a qualified chartered accountant and prior to working in schools, Henry worked for Oxford University, firstly as a financial controller and then as the Head of Finance for the new MPLS (Maths and Physical Life Science) Division.
Outside of work and his family life, Henry enjoys the great outdoors and gardening.
Henry joined EMS in February 2022 as Business Manager with extensive experience in business and financial management.
Job Titles:
- Pastoral Accommodation Tutor
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Jade joined the EMS pastoral team in September 2020, working with Bill and Grace to support residential students.
Having worked as a support worker for elderly residents, as a manager in the hospitality sector and as a youth support worker with children, Jade brings a wealth of experience to this role.
She doesn't love maths, but that's OK - her vegetarian cooking and experience supporting others is more important to us. Jade is an avid reader and enjoys being creative, with art and photography.
Job Titles:
- Clerk to Governors
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Jane joined EMS in March 2019 and provides advice and administrative support to the School's Governing Board and its committees.
Jane has a degree in German and French from the University of Exeter and has over 20 years of experience in school governance as both a governor and a clerk. Since 2001 she has provided support for governors from across Devon as a trainer and an advisor. Apart from seeing friends and family, Jane is happiest on a long walk or in a campervan.
Jane works part time on Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.
Jane provides administrative support and advice to our governors.
Job Titles:
- Governor
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
I have always tried not to let a single role define me, as we are all multi-faceted people with many different and equally important roles. However, I guess being a parent, a partner, a sister, daughter, friend, a teacher and a manager with Designated Safeguarding responsibility have been pretty important in terms of the many roles I have taken on in my life.
I have worked at Exeter College for 25 years, having started as a part time teacher, working with young people with additional needs. My most recent post has been as the Head of Student Experience at Exeter College; a role I have held since 2014 and one which I have very much enjoyed. I have worked in safeguarding for many years and as a DDSL and DSL for about 12 years now. Safeguarding has been perhaps one of the most important roles I have ever held and I have learnt so much about personal resilience from this role.
I feel so fortunate to have worked in post 16 education and in particular at Exeter College, which has been a progressive and exciting place to work. I am passionate about Further Education and have seen the transformational impact it can have on people's lives. I am still very excited by education and about wanting to give young people the best outcomes possible.
My own education was interesting, having gone from a small village school in East Leicestershire to the first purpose built comprehensive in the country, which was extremely innovative and progressive for its time. I then went to an FE college where I studied the first Drama and Theatre Arts A level course to be run in the country. After a year in Manchester studying to be an SEN teacher, I transferred (for love - of the county, the University and my future husband to be - not necessarily in that order) to Exeter University, where I completed a B ED Hons Degree.
In my own time, I love playing with my grandchildren, going to the theatre, reading, cycling and enjoying the beautiful county we are privileged to live in.
Jennie has worked at Exeter College for 25 years, having started as a part time teacher, working with young people with additional needs.
Job Titles:
- Chartered Accountant
- Parent Governor
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Jeremy is a chartered accountant by training and has decades of experience in non-profit organisations (NHS, Exeter Uni, Age Concern) in finance and management. He was also the managing director of Aid-Call plc.
He is now retired, and lives in Exeter with his family and two children (one of whom finished at EMS in 2022, and the other started in the same year).
Along with his family, he is a lover of maths and puzzles, and the conversations around their dinner table often cover obscure but interesting maths topics.
A former pupil of Exmouth Comprehensive School (as it was then), Jeremy was one of the first from the school to go to Oxford University, getting a masters degree in mathematics.
Jeremy also calls for ceilidhs (barn dances), teaches advanced driving, and runs most of Devon and Cornwall's major bridge tournaments.
Jeremy Child was elected as a Parent Governor in September 2022.
Job Titles:
- Examinations Officer
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Jo is responsible for the smooth running of all public examinations and also supports teachers to arrange internal assessments, challenges and competitions. An experienced examinations officer, she joined EMS in August 2021.
An active member of her community, Jo enjoys applying her skills to help others in a wide variety of voluntary roles: whether a treasurer, fete committee member, organising a school disco or marshalling a the local vaccine centre, she'll get stuck right in
Jo is responsible for the smooth running of examinations and also supports teachers with…
Job Titles:
- Outreach Administrator
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Jo joined our Outreach Team in January 2023. She enjoys meeting and greeting students who come to face-to-face events and helping the Outreach programmes run smoothly. Also, she is excited to be involved in the Computing Hub, which aims to raise the profile of Computer Science in education.
Jo has a degree in English Studies and taught English to college students and adults for several years. She also has a diverse background in admin and data management.
In her spare time, Jo spends time with her partner and family, or can be found with her nose in her kindle. She takes an interest in environmental issues and has a deep love of nature.
Jo joined EMS in January 2023 as Outreach Administrator with a background in teaching English and has many years experience working in admin and data management.
Job Titles:
- College Sponsor Governor
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
John is a fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, having qualified as an accountant in 1994. He currently works as Executive Director of Finance at Exeter College. Prior to that, he had a 30+ year career in the NHS, working in senior finance positions at a number of institutions in London and Devon during that time. Amongst many other things, this has earned him a wealth of knowledge and experience in the governance of complex organisations.
A proud Devonian, alumnus of Okehampton and Exeter Colleges respectively, he owes much to the local education eco-system and considers it a great privilege to be able to make a contribution to ensuring our young people are able to access the great quality services they deserve.
John is Executive Director of Finance at Exeter College and a fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.
Job Titles:
- Governor
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Ken Evans joined the Board from Exeter University in September 2021.
Job Titles:
- Headteacher / Governor
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Kerry Burnham is a graduate of the University of Exeter and an Advanced Skills Mathematics Teacher who has taught in the state sector since 1998. She has significant experience in developing able students, both as a Gifted & Talented Coordinator and as a leader for mathematics enrichment. Kerry has provided support to teachers from a range of schools, both primary and secondary and also written questions for the United Kingdom Maths Trust's (UKMT) challenges and competitions.
Appointed as the Head designate in September 2013, one year prior to its opening, Kerry has been leading the development of Exeter Maths School ever since. She's relished the challenge of growing the school from an idea to reality but mostly values the positive impact it has on the students that attend.
Kerry has a grown-up son, two teenage step-children, a couple of cats and an ever forbearing husband. She has been known to lift a badminton racket but claims no expertise. A walk on Dartmoor is her favourite way to blow the cobwebs away.
Lewis is an alumnus of EMS completing his A-Levels with us in 2017, he returns to us now as a graduand of the University of Exeter.
Job Titles:
- Assistant Headteacher
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Liam is the lead teacher for Computer Science and Assessment and Reporting at EMS. He is a Mathematics graduate of Warwick University and completed his PGCE at the University of Exeter. He worked for 5 years in a state comprehensive before joining Exeter Mathematics School in 2014. Liam has significant experience in delivering A-level Mathematics and Further Mathematics; he also has delivered CPD to other professionals, both in the UK and in Ghana, where he took part in a volunteering project to support Mathematics teachers. Liam has spent time training Ten Tors teams and has a keen interest in programming and cipher.
Liam is responsible for academic progress and support. He is a Mathematics graduate of Warwick University and completed his PGCE at the University of Exeter.
Job Titles:
- Parent Governor
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Liene has worked in a number of settings over the last 20 years as both an employee and employer. This included working as a translator and she enjoys communicating with people and organising events.
Liene has three children aged 11, 16 and 17.
Liene has over 20 years experience as an employee and employer and worked as a translator for many years.
Job Titles:
- School Administrator
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
Louise joined EMS in summer 2022 and works part-time in reception on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
Louise has a BSc in Nutritional Science from Middlesex University and has been a self-employed registered Nutritionist working with people requiring nutritional and lifestyle support for their health conditions. Louise also has experience in office and administrative management and has gained excellent customer service and written communication skills over the years.
Louise often participates in basketball tournaments (masters), having played nationally since age 18. Louise is a keen gardener and enjoys trekking.
Louise joined EMS in summer 2022 and works part-time in reception on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Louise is currently on sabbatical and will be returning to EMS in the summer.
Job Titles:
- Administrator
- School Administrator
Lydia is a very experienced administrator and has joined our Team working in reception on Mondays, Thursdays and Fridays.
Job Titles:
- Pastoral Staff Member
- Pastoral Accommodation Tutor
Magda joined EMS in September 2023 supporting students in Boarding on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday evenings.
Malcolm is the lead teacher for Physics after obtaining two degrees, one in maths and a Bsc in physics. He joined the school in September 2015 and has over 15 year experience in both comprehensive and selective schools.
Job Titles:
- Lead Teacher of Computer Science
Melanie joined the EMS team in September 2018, following her son's successful completion of his A-level studies with us.
Job Titles:
- Student Portal Teachers & Governors Portal
- Vice Chair of Governors
Nathan began his career with Arthur Andersen, qualifying as a Chartered Accountant in 1997. Having worked in London and Sydney with Andersen's, Nathan transferred to Deloitte's Forensic & Dispute Consulting team in 2001 working on a number of high profile cases in the UK and US. Nathan left Deloitte in 2004 to join a large UK Bank, taking up the role of Head of Business Management in the bank's Group Risk function. There he was responsible for finance, HR, IT and logistics.
Nathan current role is a Programme Director in the Economic Crime Prevention team. In that role he works closely with the bank's regulators, law enforcement teams, forensic accountants and lawyers.
Until 2017 Nathan was the Chair of Governors at a local primary school, a relatively small school of about 100 children, rated as outstanding by OFSTED. During the six years he was a governor he dealt with a number of issues that small schools face into, including financial, legal and staff retention. Nathan enjoyed working closely with the teachers and support staff to ensure the children received the very best education they could.
His interests include trail running and cycling (around the south coast of Cornwall) and music (the less said about his taste in music the better)!
Nathan's current role is Programme Director in the Fraud & Financial Crime Prevention team.
Nick first worked with EMS when he was an undergraduate at the University of Exeter, supporting our students with their EMC projects. He then went on to join our Teaching Internship to get a taste of what teaching is all about.
Job Titles:
- Pastoral Staff Member
- Pastoral Accommodation Tutor
Nikki is an experienced primary school teacher and joined the Boarding Team in September 2023, working on Monday evenings.
Phil joined the Outreach and Admissions Team in August 2022, providing support for our outreach programmes and ensuring the application process runs smoothly.
Sam brings with her a wide range of experience from various roles she has undertaken in her career. Find out more
Job Titles:
- Deputy Safeguarding Lead - Pastoral
Since graduating with a drama degree from the University of Exeter, Shirin has worked with and for young people…
Job Titles:
- Director of Outreach
- Key Member of Staff
Sophie is the key member of staff for the school's student and teacher outreach activities.
Job Titles:
- Teacher of Maths and Lead Teacher for UCAS
Stuart joined the EMS teaching team in September 2016. A graduate of the University of Plymouth, Stuart has been teaching in the South West for over fifteen years.
Susie has re-joined EMS as a temporary School Administrator and is based in reception every Tuesday and Wednesday.
Tamsin is responsible for the day-to-day accounts of the School.
Job Titles:
- Teacher of Maths and Computer Science
Will studied Maths at Cambridge University, specialising in Pure Mathematics such as Algebraic Topology.
Job Titles:
- Pastoral and Designated Safeguarding Lead
Joining EMS in January 2023, Yasmin is responsible for Safeguarding, Pastoral Support and Residential Provision.
Job Titles:
- Pastoral Staff Member
- Pastoral Accommodation Tutor
Zoe joined the Boarding Team at EMS after 10 years working at a local primary school.