In 2008, having spent 25 years working in Financial Services I found myself out of work as a Mortgage Adviser following a collapse in the housing market and in need of work to support my young family. I found that opportunity at St John's, giving me a completely different work role, working alongside all those who together make up St John's Church School ( where my own children have attended over the years). Providing support to those who need it, having a positive impact on our working environment to make the school the best we can, is what makes this job so worthwhile.

I spent 20 years as a professional footballer, starting out at Everton and going on to play for Peterborough United, Chesterfield, and Leyton Orient. After retiring from playing, I moved into coaching and management for 12 years, working with several clubs and helping to develop young talent.

Following my time in football, I transitioned into property development and discovered a real passion for the maintenance side of the work. That eventually led me to take on a new role supporting three schools with their day-to-day maintenance needs—a hands-on job I truly enjoy.

I've worked at St John's for over 20 years now, I like being part of a team which is positive and friendly and where every child matters.  Being a Midday Supervisor is part of that; helping to make lunchtimes happy and enjoyable.  In the dinner hall I encourage them to try different foods and in the playground I organise and play games.  To see and help a child smile, laugh and have fun makes the job very rewarding.

Cooking has always been a passion of mine and in my household we have a saying 'Food is medicine'. So when the oppportunity came along to work in the St John's kitchen I was not only delighted to take on the task to feed the vast amount of children that attent the school, but also to give all the children that opportunity to have a selection of various food that not only they enjoy but also is beneficial to their development of their health and wellbeing. The atmosphere in the kitchen hall is a vibe, I love my little convorsations and connections with the children from across the years, this is what inspires me and keeps me striving.

Bio to follow

I am excited to begin my new role preparing wholesome meals for school children. Cooking and baking have always been a true passion of mine, and I enjoy creating food that not only nourishes but also brings joy. Before joining the school, I gained valuable experience working in restaurants, where I developed my skills and love for fresh, flavoursome food. Now, I look forward to using that experience to provide children with meals that support their health, learning, and happiness every day.

Bio to follow

Working in the garden at St John's, there is nothing more fulfilling than watching the excitement when the children see the seeds they have planted growing into beautiful flowers or when they can taste the produce that they have helped to nurture. After spending most of my working life nursing, it is a lovely change to be able to spend time doing something else so satisfying. Gardening provides an opportunity to calm, reset and focus for both the children and myself.