Who runs each maths school
Headteachers and named senior leaders across all twelve schools, with whatever biographical detail each school has actually chosen to publish about them — sourced, and honest about the gaps.
Every entry here is drawn from a school's own website or a named press source — see the "Source" link under each person. This page covers headteachers, senior leaders and every classroom teacher named on a school's own staff page; we've left out governors, trustees and non-teaching administrative, finance and estates roles to keep it focused on the people actually running lessons. Bio depth still varies a lot by school: some publish full career histories for every teacher, others publish little beyond a name and subject. Where that's the case, we say so rather than filling the gap with a guess — two entries on this page currently have no further bio for exactly that reason. Job titles and people change after publication, so treat this as a snapshot rather than a live directory. See our methodology.
Exeter Mathematics School
School profile →Kerry Burnham
HeadteacherA graduate of the University of Exeter and an Advanced Skills Mathematics Teacher who has taught in the state sector since 1998, including as a Gifted & Talented Coordinator and mathematics enrichment leader supporting teachers across primary and secondary schools. Has written questions for UK Mathematics Trust challenges and competitions. Appointed Head designate in September 2013, a year before the school opened, and has led it since.
Liam Cantle
Assistant Headteacher (Academic)Teaches Maths and Computer Science and oversees university applications, progression, assessment and reporting. A Mathematics graduate of Warwick University with a PGCE from Exeter, he taught in a state comprehensive for five years before joining EMS in 2014, and has delivered subject-specialist CPD and volunteered supporting maths teachers in Ghana.
Yasmin Trevelyan
Assistant Headteacher (Pastoral)Responsible for safeguarding, pastoral support, residential provision, student behaviour and SEN provision. Holds a teaching qualification from the University of Plymouth (2013) and a PGCE, with recent experience in alternative-provision settings.
Andrew Daniel
Mathematics LeadCompleted a PhD using fluid dynamics and numerical methods to model plate tectonics in Patagonia, followed by a post-doctoral role in computer coding, before moving into teaching at six schools in the US and internationally, including as a head of department and in senior leadership.
Malcolm Simpson
Lead Teacher of PhysicsJoined EMS in September 2015 to oversee the Physics department. Holds a Physics degree from the University of Bristol and has taught in both comprehensive and selective schools as a previous head of department, with a stated goal of developing closer links between the maths and physics curriculums.
Melanie Dennig
Lead Teacher of Computer ScienceJoined EMS in September 2018. Holds a Computer Science degree from UCL and previously worked as a researcher and software engineer before directing CS curriculum development in earlier teaching roles; her stated focus is addressing gender bias in computing.
Ed Horncastle
Teacher of Physics; Lead Teacher of the Exeter Mathematics CertificateHolds a first-class degree in Geophysics from Liverpool University and a PhD in Theoretical Physics on Earth's magnetic field. Leads the school's enriched curriculum course, the Exeter Mathematics Certificate, and works on collaborative projects with the University of Exeter.
Fiona Thomas
Teacher of Maths; Curriculum X Lead Teacher; Staff GovernorJoined EMS in January 2020 after previously working at King's College London Maths School. Holds a first-class MMath from Durham University and trained via Teach First with a PGCE at UCL's Institute of Education. Coordinates the school's Curriculum X short courses.
Aeran Fleming
Teacher of Maths & Physics; Deputy EMC LeadJoined EMS in September 2021 originally for a two-year development post. Holds a master's in mathematics and a PhD in Algebraic Geometry from the University of Liverpool, and expanded into teaching physics driven by an interest in practical applications of maths, from acoustic guitar construction to traditional English longbow making.
Bethany Jones
Teacher of MathsJoined EMS in September 2021. Studied Mathematics at Plymouth University and received a scholarship from the Institute of Mathematics & its Applications to complete teacher training at the University of Exeter. Coordinates students' social events, including inter-school activities with other maths schools.
Nick Dean
Teacher of Maths & Lead TutorOriginally supported EMS students as a University of Exeter undergraduate helping with Exeter Mathematics Certificate projects, then joined the school's Teaching Internship programme after completing a first-class MMaths degree. Oversees the school's pastoral and academic tutorial curriculum.
Stuart Allen
Teacher of Maths; Lead Teacher for Outreach & LiteracyStudied mathematics at the University of Plymouth and has over fifteen years teaching in the South West, including a prior head-of-department post teaching A-level Further Mathematics. Particular interests in the use of technology in teaching and statistics; coordinates the school's outreach and student literacy work.
Will Halwyn
Teacher of Maths & Computer Science; Problem Solving Lead TeacherHolds a Mathematics degree from Cambridge focused on pure mathematics (algebraic topology) and joined EMS in 2015. Previously an outdoor education coordinator running Duke of Edinburgh and Ten Tors programmes, and an early champion of using Raspberry Pi in the classroom.
King's College London Mathematics School
School profile →Timothy Bateup
Head TeacherHolds a first-class BSc in Mathematics and a PGCE in Secondary Mathematics, both from the University of Warwick. Was Head of Mathematics at City of London School for Girls from 2015, having previously taught at Highgate School, where he ran a mathematics outreach programme with state schools across several boroughs; at City of London School for Girls he launched a peer-mentoring and teacher-support partnership with East and Central London schools. Appointed Head Teacher from September 2023, succeeding Dan Abramson OBE, who had held the post for ten years.
Tom Collins
Deputy Head (Academic)Responsible for the school's curriculum, staffing and student outcomes, and teaches mathematics and computer science. Holds a degree in Mathematics and Management Studies from Cambridge, worked in corporate finance, then trained as a teacher at Paddington Academy and led the mathematics department at Harris Westminster Sixth Form before joining KMS.
Jeremy Judge
Assistant Head (Staff Development and Co-Curriculum)Oversees staff development, careers, sports clubs, societies and alumni relations, having previously been the school's Lead Teacher for Year 12 and a Maths teacher. His career has spanned East London, Chicago, South London and now Central London.
Hannah Holland
Director of Outreach and Widening ParticipationOversees outreach and widening participation and is the SLT lead for Equality and Diversity, while also teaching mathematics. Studied at Imperial College, Humboldt Universität and King's College London, gaining a master's degree in maths and maths education, and has taught maths for a decade across several London schools.
Idza Idros
Assistant Head (Academic)Manages the timetable, calendar and day-to-day running of the school, having previously been Lead Teacher for Outreach. Was Head of Maths at Pimlico Academy for a decade, running maths masterclasses with local primaries and mentoring new heads of department; holds a BSc in Maths from Imperial College London and trained through Teach First.
Obehi Orukpe
Assistant Head (Personal Development, Behaviour and Welfare)Oversees all pastoral matters as Designated Safeguarding Lead, and teaches Mathematics and Personal Development. Previously worked across teaching, sixth-form management, safeguarding and senior leadership roles at Townley Grammar School. Holds an MSci in Mathematics from Queen Mary University of London.
Dr Tanya Waddingham
School Business ManagerHolds an MSci in Geological Science from Imperial College and a PhD in Palaeoclimatology from the University of Reading, plus a PGCE in Secondary Geography. Spent a decade at Imperial College in teaching, curation, finance and student-recruitment roles, and was Operations Manager at Old Palace School before joining KMS. Has published seven peer-reviewed papers.
Louisa Aulis
Lead Teacher of Mathematics and MechanicsLeads and manages the mathematics and mechanics departments. Holds a degree in Mathematics from Oxford and a PGCE from King's College London, and previously spent two years as a teaching assistant at Paddock School, a specialist school for children with mild-to-moderate learning difficulties.
Marco Pereira
Lead Teacher of PhysicsLeads the Physics programme and directs the Year 13 Challenge Programme (Oxbridge admissions test and Olympiad preparation). Holds degrees in Physics and Mechanical Engineering from Universidad de Los Andes and a Masters in Photography from Goldsmiths, and previously taught at the London Academy of Excellence, City of London School, Rugby School and schools in Dubai.
Eirini Birmpili
Lead Teacher of Year 12 and SENCO; Teacher of PhysicsHolds a Physics degree from a Greek university and a PGCE from the University of East London, and previously worked at an 11-18 state school in East London.
Dr Simon Chu
Lead Teacher of AS Subjects; leads Computer ScienceLeads the Computer Science department and delivers the school's weekly online GCSE+ Computer Science outreach programme. Completed a PhD in Mathematics (Number Theory) at King's College London, where he also taught as part of the King's Factor outreach programme.
Christian Dolman-Atwell
Lead Teacher of Year 13; Teacher of MathsHolds a Mathematics degree from Reading and a PGCE and MA in Mathematics Education from King's College London. Previously a teacher educator at King's and at Teach First, and Head of Mathematics at an East London sixth-form college and an all-through academy.
Elliot Francis-Hewett
Lead Teacher of Outreach; Teacher of MathsA King's Maths School alumnus who studied Maths at Bristol University and returned to teach at his former school after a spell teaching at Greenshaw High School.
Tony Boyle
Teacher of MathematicsHolds a Masters in Maths and Philosophy, specialising in ethics, from Oxford University, and a PGCE from King's College London. Worked as a software engineer before moving into teaching.
Dr Bryan Cheang
Teacher of EconomicsPreviously a Research Fellow at King's College London, where he completed a PhD in Political Economy, and continues to work in academia alongside teaching.
Louis Collier
Teacher of MathematicsHolds a Physics degree from Oxford and a PGCE from UCL's Institute of Education. Worked as an analyst in the digital and tech education sector before training as a teacher.
Jonathan Shaw
Teacher of PhysicsHolds a Physics degree from Oxford and an MBA from INSEAD. Spent a career in consulting, marketing and finance including six years at Diageo, and ran his own exhibitions and property businesses, before retraining as a physics teacher in 2017 — after what he describes as a 30-year gap — and joining KCLMS in 2021.
University of Liverpool Maths School
School profile →Dan Vickery
Headteacher (from September 2026)Joins from Scarborough College, where he was Deputy Head (Curriculum), having led the academic curriculum, held the position of Head of Mathematics, and coordinated the Duke of Edinburgh programme there. Appointed after what the university described as "a rigorous national recruitment process," succeeding founding headteacher Damian Haigh. Neither his own school's site nor Scarborough College's publishes his university or teacher-training background.
Damian Haigh
Founding Headteacher (2019–2026, retiring)Read a degree at Cambridge University before a PGCE in Mathematics at Sheffield Hallam. Started teaching in Staffordshire in 1997, became a Head of Mathematics in Cheshire in 2004, then spent eleven years in leadership at Wilmslow High School (Director of Learning and Assessment from 2008, later Director of Research & Development) before joining Liverpool Maths School in 2019, a year ahead of its first students. Led the school through its first Outstanding Ofsted judgement (2024) and its Sunday Times State Sixth Form College of the Year award (2026) before retiring at the end of the 2025/26 academic year.
David Hemsley
Deputy HeadteacherTeaches physics alongside leading the school's Personal and Pastoral Enrichment Programme (including progression and careers) and serving as designated safeguarding lead. Studied Astrophysics at the University of Edinburgh, then a PGCE in Secondary Physics at Cambridge. Has previously been a head of physics, head of science and head of sixth form.
Lynda Stott
School Business ManagerA chartered accountant who held senior financial roles across property, leisure and retail SMEs before joining the University of Central Lancashire Students' Union in 2003, where she was until recently Director of Finance and Performance.
Colin Thomas
Head of MathematicsLeads the school's outreach initiatives alongside the maths department. Studied Economics and Mathematics at the University of Liverpool and returned to the university's campus when the school first opened.
Steve Wentworth
Head of Computer ScienceAlso handles the school's technical IT alongside teaching. Almost 40 years' programming experience beginning with self-taught BASIC on a Sinclair ZX Spectrum; holds an MSc in Microelectronics and Information Systems and a first-class BSc in Applied Electronics and Computers from Liverpool John Moores University; has taught computer science since 2014.
Dr Aurora Gutierrez-Sosa
Head of PhysicsCompleted a PhD in Surface Science at the University of Liverpool after a master's in Physics at the Complutense University of Madrid, and worked as a research scientist at Oxford and Manchester researching catalysts, plasma physics and nanotubes. Has organised student trips to CERN and Gran Sasso.
Maria Bennett
Head of OutreachJoined as outreach lead and mathematics teacher in September 2024, having taught mathematics in the region for around two decades. Leads the school's "Garnett Academy" and Garnett Scholars bursary programme.
Mary Higham
Pastoral Lead and HR OfficerHolds a BSc in Environmental Management and Geography and worked in Merseyside schools for fifteen years, starting as an office manager, before moving into leading the school's pastoral support team.
Samuel Canham
Teacher of Mathematics and Computer ScienceStudied mathematics at Trinity College, Cambridge, then gained an MSc in Computing at the University of York, working as a research associate in formal methods and verification, before a PGCE at Sheffield in 2019. Combines maths and computing teaching with STEP and olympiad preparation, and runs the school's cryptography and recreational maths clubs.
Tracy Birkett
Teacher of Computer ScienceCompleted a BSc in Computer Science at the University of Chester in 2008, worked in network support for six years, then a PGCE in Computer Science in 2014. Runs the school's Women in STEM club and retro games club.
Michael Prescott
Teacher of MathematicsHas taught Mathematics in Merseyside for over a decade, discovering a passion for number theory during his degree. Also covers PSHE and PE, and runs the Gold Duke of Edinburgh award at the school.
Johnathan Birkett
Teacher of MathematicsA graduate of the University of Liverpool with a BSc and MSc in Mathematics, plus a PGDE in Further Education from Liverpool Hope University. Coaches the school's F1 in Schools programme and supports Gold Duke of Edinburgh expeditions.
Jamie Hall
Teacher of PhysicsHolds a first-class master's degree in theoretical physics from the University of Leeds, where he discovered a passion for teaching while helping deliver undergraduate workshops, before training as a physics teacher in Manchester. Runs the school's weekly Quantum Club.
Lancaster University School of Mathematics
School profile →Peter Tiltman
Head of SchoolStudied Mathematics at Christ's College, Cambridge, then taught in Eritrea before becoming Head of Maths at a Blackpool school and later Head of Sixth Form and Assistant Headteacher at Turton School, Bolton. Still teaches a "Maths in Education" module at Lancaster University, sits on the Abacus NW Maths Hub board and is a governor at Aston Maths School. Received a Special Recognition award for services to education at the British Education Awards 2024.
Nick Burnham
Executive PrincipalAlso Principal and Chief Executive of Cardinal Newman College, LUSoM's co-sponsor, a role he's held since 2012. Started his career as an economics teacher at Peter Symonds College, Winchester, for eleven years, then was Vice Principal at Carmel College, St Helens, before Cardinal Newman. Chair of the Sixth Form Colleges Association's Council since October 2016.
Rachel Rowbottom
Assistant Head (Pastoral), Head of Chemistry & Designated Safeguarding LeadHolds a first-class BSc in Chemistry from the University of Liverpool and a PGDE from Edge Hill University. Spent seven years as Course Leader of Chemistry at a Southport college before joining LUSoM, where she also leads personal development and safeguarding.
Zoe Knowles
Head of PhysicsGraduated top of her year with a first-class BSc in Physics with Computational Physics from Lancaster University before completing a PhD in Astrophysics. Worked in aerospace and defence research and development, winning an innovation award, before teaching at UCLan and then thirteen years at Runshaw College, managing its A-level physics programme for eight of them.
Ryan Parkin
Head of Computer ScienceGraduated with a BSc in Web Design and Multimedia from the University of Central Lancashire and worked in IT support before moving into teaching and pastoral roles at college level, with a period doing community and social development work for The Salvation Army in the UK and Canada. Returned to full-time teaching in 2019 and joined LUSoM in 2025.
Wing Liu
Outreach Director & Teacher of MathsA first-class mathematics graduate from the University of Manchester who qualified as a teacher soon after, working as a secondary school teacher in Oldham and — alongside teaching — as a UEFA C Licence football coach, including academy coaching in the United States. Joined LUSoM in 2024 and now leads outreach across Lancashire.
Andy Bottomley
Teacher of MathsStudied Further Maths, Physics and Chemistry at A-level in Oldham before an undergraduate master's in Maths and Stats at Oxford. Taught at an independent London school, returned to Lancaster University for an MRes in Stats and Operational Research, then taught in London (including at Westminster School from 2018) before joining LUSoM in 2023 after twelve years teaching in the south.
George Lythgoe
Teacher of MathsGraduated with a BSc(Hons) in Mathematics from the University of Manchester and has taught A-level Maths and Further Maths for twenty years, also working as a senior examiner.
Juan Pedro Bercial Vélez
Teacher of MathsTook an Erasmus grant to finish his degree at the University of Liverpool in 1994 and stayed to qualify as a teacher. After teaching Key Stage 4 and 5 in Toxteth, completed an MSc and then a PhD in Fracture Mechanics at Liverpool, lecturing engineers and mathematicians, and helped develop the university's Fun Maths Roadshow. Returned to sixth-form teaching in 2007 at institutions including King George V College and Winstanley College.
Cambridge Maths School
School profile →Clare Hargraves
HeadteacherAppointed founding headteacher in April 2022, ahead of the school opening to its first Year 12 cohort in September 2023. The school describes her as known for "transformational, expectations-driven leadership" in maths departments, secondary schools and sixth form colleges across the east of England, including a deputy headship at a school rated in the top 1% of state schools nationally and a sixth-form headship in which she turned around a previously underperforming college.
Dave Banham
Deputy Headteacher (Mathematics)Over 30 years' experience leading maths departments at school and trust level. A certified Specialist Leader in Education and qualified Advanced Skills Teacher, and CPD lead for the National Centre for Excellence in Mathematics specialising in sixth-form maths. Has previously consulted for Cambridge Assessment and PIXL on GCSE/A-level teaching resources.
Joanna McEwen
Senior Leadership Team — Science Department LeadLeads the school's Science department and oversees its careers curriculum, while also teaching Physics. A Physics with Astrophysics graduate who taught international summer schools for the University of Glasgow physics department before moving into secondary teaching; her bio highlights advocacy for girls in STEM.
Jake Gordon
Lead Teacher of Computer ScienceSpent 20+ years building web-based software before teaching, including founding AllYearbooks — described as the UK's leading school-yearbook company, sold in 2017 — and building an "infinite whiteboard" tool used by over 1,000 teachers. Worked on data visualisation and analytics for Cambridge/London start-ups before moving into teaching in 2019.
Karen Lonsdale
Senior Leadership Team (no specific title published)Unlike every other entry on the school's staff page, her bio doesn't state a formal title. Studied English Language and Linguistic Science at the University of York, worked earlier in PR for consumer health and pharmaceutical communications, then moved into education and has held senior leadership roles at several schools, including within the Eastern Learning Alliance. Her stated focus is character education, personal development, safeguarding and pastoral care.
Ellen Berry
Mathematics TeacherStudied maths at Cambridge specialising in applied maths, stayed on for a master's in astrophysics, then a PGCE at Cambridge. Applied to Cambridge herself from a state school in East Anglia and is involved in the school's outreach to other local schools, including STEP and UKMT challenge preparation.
Rita Chow
Chemistry TeacherStudied Natural Sciences at Cambridge and has taught A-level chemistry at high-performing schools in London and Cambridge for many years. Taught herself computer programming during a sabbatical and is now studying part-time for a computer science degree.
Gracinda Colaço
Mathematics TeacherHolds a first-class maths degree from Durham University and a PGCE from King's College London, with eleven years teaching in London, Kuala Lumpur, Bedford and Cambridge, including A-level maths, further maths and the IB.
Roselle Graham
Biology TeacherBecame interested in the maths/biology interface while studying mathematical biology as part of her Cambridge degree, after an earlier career in biochemical research. Works as an exam setter and Principal Examiner alongside teaching.
Susan Hutchinson
Mathematics TeacherCompeted in UKMT Maths Challenges and Olympiads as a teenager, then read Mathematics at Trinity College, Cambridge with first-class honours, staying for the fourth-year Master of Mathematics course. Ten years teaching across all secondary ages and abilities, having played a key role developing a previous school's further-maths curriculum.
Dr Gareth Jones
Physics TeacherHolds a PhD investigating the biophysical properties of neural networks in learning and memory, continued at UCL, then worked at GSK on cognition in psychiatric illness, before over 12 years teaching sixth-form physics.
Clare Stourton
Chemistry TeacherHolds a PhD in Solid State Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy, and realised during it that she enjoyed tutoring undergraduates more than research. Has taught chemistry for many years at schools in Saffron Walden and Cambridge.
Edward Wyncoll
Mathematics TeacherHolds a first-class maths degree from Cambridge and ten years' teaching experience across a sixth-form college, a secondary school and a grammar school, previously leading A-level Maths and Further Maths.
James Mitchell
Mathematics TeacherA recent mathematics graduate from the University of Cambridge with a background leading maths and science enrichment at summer schools, who draws on his university experience in cosmology, number theory and population dynamics in his teaching.
Esah Bannister
Physics TeacherHolds a master's in Physics with Theoretical Physics from Manchester and a PGCE from Cambridge. Previously worked as a Patent Attorney specialising in blockchain and artificial intelligence before moving into teaching.
Imperial College London Mathematics School
School profile →David Lee
HeadteacherStudied Mathematics and Philosophy at the University of Oxford, then taught maths in Leicester and in 11–18 state schools in Camden, London from 2012, focused on stretching pupils in maths from Key Stage 3 to Key Stage 5. Holds a master's in Educational Leadership from Warwick and a master's in Mathematics from the Open University, and has authored A-level papers for OCR. Appointed headteacher before the school opened in September 2023.
Tim Grundy
Deputy HeadteacherGraduated with first-class honours in Physics with Theoretical Physics from the University of Manchester, then an MRes in Complexity Science from Bristol with distinction. Trained as a maths teacher at Wembley High Technology College from 2015, then held Second in Charge for Mathematics, Head of Year 12 and Assistant Headteacher (Pastoral) roles at the London Academy of Excellence Tottenham. His bio emphasises using maths and STEM to create opportunity for disadvantaged and under-represented students.
Claire Rebello
Head of MathsStudied Mathematics at Imperial College London, then spent six years teaching at King's College London Mathematics School, where she coordinated the statistics curriculum and led the school's gender equality strategy. More recently was Head of Higher Education at St Albans High School for Girls. Volunteers with UKMT and the Royal Institution, and leads outreach and widening-participation work at Imperial Maths School.
Emily Manolopoulos
Head of PhysicsStudied Natural Sciences at Cambridge, specialising in Astrophysics for her master's, with a dissertation using near-infrared telescope data to study galaxy-cluster luminosity profiles. Completed a PGCE in secondary science at Oxford and taught GCSE science and A-level physics across London state schools for ten years before joining Imperial Maths School as a founding staff member in July 2023.
Varuna Gooriah
Head of OutreachOver twenty years teaching mathematics, including nine years as a Head of Mathematics, and has worked for Underground Mathematics, which produces Key Stage 5 curriculum resources. Currently studying for a master's in Mathematics Education at UCL.
Emma Wheeler
Maths TeacherStudied Mathematics with Statistics at the University of Bristol with first-class honours, then a PGCE at Goldsmiths. Was Maths Excellence Coordinator at Newstead Wood School before joining Imperial Maths School, creating extra-curricular opportunities for students.
Emily Levere
Maths TeacherHolds a maths degree from Cambridge and a PGCE from Oxford. Worked briefly in management consultancy and education research before teaching high-achieving sixth-form students at London grammar schools.
Neil Shah
Maths TeacherStudied Economics at LSE specialising in financial mathematics, worked in investment banking, then owned and ran a technology manufacturing firm in London while completing an MSc in International Relations. Moved into teaching after selling the business, most recently as Deputy Head of Mathematics at Bentley Wood High School.
Alvin Leung
Physics TeacherStudied mathematics and physics at the University of Hong Kong and holds a PhD in nuclear magnetic resonance from Cambridge, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship in Basel and seven years as a university lecturer in Hong Kong. Trained as a teacher in Oxfordshire and joined Imperial Maths School in 2024.
Raj Velusamy
Physics TeacherHolds Bachelor's and Master's degrees in Mechanical Engineering and a PGCE with QTS in Physics from the University of Sunderland, with over ten years teaching experience. Currently pursuing a PhD in Metal Matrix Composites, with research published in Springer Nature and Taylor & Francis journals.
Leeds Mathematics School
School profile →Robert Wilne
PrincipalHolds a first-class Mathematics degree from Cambridge and taught A-level Maths and Further Maths for over 25 years, most recently as Lead Teacher of Outreach at King's College London Maths School, where he taught enrichment lessons in local secondary schools and led professional development for maths teachers. (A speaker-bio page not published by LMaS itself additionally credits him as founding headteacher of the London Academy of Excellence, a former Director of Secondary at the National Centre of Excellence in the Teaching of Mathematics, and a former CEO of the maths education charity MESME — details we couldn't confirm on the school's own site.)
Joanna Rhodes
Vice-Principal, Designated Safeguarding Lead & SENDCoHolds a master's and a PhD in Chemistry from Oxford, where she won the Unilever Prize for Practical Physical Chemistry, and separately qualified as a solicitor at Slaughter and May. Was Head of Science then Assistant Principal at Shelley College, then Director of Sixth Form at Wakefield Girls' High School before joining LMaS at its 2023 opening. Co-author of an Oxford Chemistry Primer and one of 523 women selected from 22,500 applicants for astronaut training in 2021.
Jonny Sherwood
Vice-Principal, Quality of EducationGraduated with a first in Mathematics from Warwick, trained through Teach First, then taught in the Dominican Republic (coaching the Maths Olympiad team and girls' football team). Joined Elliot Hudson College, Leeds in 2019 across several subject and faculty leadership roles, then led LMaS's outreach and Axiom Maths Circles programmes as founding Director of Outreach before promotion to Vice-Principal.
Claudia Brack
Assistant PrincipalGraduated top of her class from Universidad del Pacífico, Lima, Peru, specialising in Finance, and has taught A-level Maths and Further Maths for over 16 years. Joined LMaS from Oldham Sixth Form College, where she led an outstanding Mathematics, Computer Science and IT faculty from 2012.
Pavandeep Singh
Director of MathematicsHolds a mathematics degree from Warwick and has taught in the UK and abroad, including in Kenya and Togo. Was Head of Mathematics at Ossett Academy and in the Outwood Trust before joining LMaS, leading curriculum development and raising student achievement.
Fleur Siswick
Lead Teacher of PhysicsAchieved a first-class degree in Natural Sciences then Chemical Engineering at Cambridge and qualified through Teach First. Taught physics in Leeds schools for eight years, including five as Head of Science at Dixons Trinity Chapeltown, before joining LMaS.
Andy O'Hara
Lead Teacher of Computer ScienceA Sheffield Hallam graduate with a first in Computing and a PGCE in Computing Education, with over 17 years teaching A-level IT and Computer Science, previously at Outwood Grange Academy and Elliot Hudson College. An OCR A-level Computer Science examiner and SCITT trainer of future computer science teachers; students from his previous school twice reached the BAFTA Young Game Developers national final.
Surrey Maths School
School profile →Nora Kettleborough
Co-HeadteacherCo-Headteacher since January 2024, having driven the school from its pre-opening phase to launch in September 2024 alongside Sahar Shillabeer. A physicist by training, she taught and led Physics departments across a decade in sixth-form education, with a particular focus on supporting under-represented students into STEM.
Sahar Shillabeer
Co-HeadteacherRead Mathematics at Oxford and qualified as a secondary maths teacher in 2005. Led a Maths department and school outreach programme, then worked as Curriculum Development Lead at Mathematics Mastery, Head of Maths at the Royal Ballet School, and — immediately before SuMS — Head of Year 13 and then Assistant Head at King's Maths School.
Mrs Robinson
Assistant Headteacher (Pastoral) & Lead Teacher of Computer ScienceStudied Computer Science at the University of Southampton with an industrial placement at Roke Manor Research, then worked for an educational software company in Canada and as a Software Engineer in London financial services before retraining as a teacher. Has taught locally for ten years, including five as a Year Group Leader.
Dr Robles Llana
Assistant Headteacher (Data and Outcomes) & Teacher of PhysicsGrew up in Spain, studied Physics at the Universidad Autónoma de Madrid, then completed a PhD in Theoretical Physics at Stony Brook University. After several years researching physics and mathematics at universities worldwide, retrained as a teacher through the Researchers in Schools programme and has since held Head of Physics and Head of Science roles.
Dr Brierley
Lead Teacher of PhysicsGrew up in the West Midlands, studied Natural Sciences at Cambridge and stayed on to complete a doctorate in Physics. Has taught locally at Guildford High School and George Abbot School.
Ms Cameron
Lead Teacher of Outreach & Teacher of MathematicsRead Maths at King's College London and holds a master's in Educational Leadership from the UCL Institute of Education. Began teaching in 2010, holding leadership roles both within Mathematics departments and pastorally, in mainstream and alternative provision settings.
Dr Kirby
Lead Teacher of Chemistry & Teacher of ProjectsCompleted a doctorate in Chemistry at the University of Sussex, then worked as a Research Chemist for Unilever and a Materials Specialist for IBM across China, the US and Europe before retraining as a chemistry teacher, later holding Head of Department and High School Principal roles.
Mrs Ryzak-McGhee
Lead Teacher of EconomicsRead Philosophy, Politics and Economics at Oxford, then spent five years as an executive remuneration consultant advising on what to pay company CEOs, before moving into teaching and most recently serving as Head of Economics at Reigate Grammar School.
Mrs Joyce
Lead Teacher of Year 13 & Teacher of MathematicsStudied Mathematical Sciences at Oxford, spent five years in financial services, then trained as a teacher. Spent two years with the government-funded Advanced Maths Support Programme, widening participation in maths and STEM across Surrey, Berkshire and Hampshire.
Mr Hart
Lead Teacher of Mathematics & Teacher of PhysicsStudied Mathematics at Oxford and has taught in a wide range of settings including the Army Foundation College in Harrogate, UTC Reading and Tomlinscote School, holding Head of Department and Year 13 pastoral leadership roles.
Mrs Carey
Deputy Lead Teacher of MathematicsStudied Mathematics at Oxford and began teaching at the London Academy of Excellence before moving to King's College London Maths School, where she took on a range of additional responsibilities within the mathematics department.
Mrs Bourne
Lead Teacher of Year 12 & SENDCoHolds a degree in Primary Education from Canterbury Christ Church University specialising in modern foreign languages, and spent 16 years as a class teacher before moving into SEND. A Lead Inclusion Practitioner for Learning Partners Academy Trust and a Lead Trainer for the Barnardo's Cygnet autism parenting course.
Aston University Mathematics School
School profile →Francis Goodburn
HeadteacherGrew up in a single-parent household receiving free school meals in Yorkshire, completing eight A-levels at a comprehensive school before studying mathematics and computer science at Oxford on a university organ scholarship. Worked as a child protection social worker before entering teaching, later becoming founding Deputy Headteacher at Lancaster University School of Mathematics. Holds Advanced Teacher Status, is a Fellow of the Society for Education and Training and a Chartered Teacher, and was highly commended for FE Lecturer of the Year at the 2024 Pearson National Teaching Awards.
Neil Drury
Assistant Principal (Pastoral)Joins from the University of Birmingham, where he was Associate Professor of Physical Sciences and Engineering Education and Head of the Engineering and Physical Sciences Foundation Year, focused on widening participation. Studied Physics at Oxford, began his career as a physics teacher in Birmingham and Oxfordshire, and has directed The Physics Factory, a Birmingham charity supporting physics teachers, and worked as a development coach for the Institute of Physics.
Alex Page
Assistant Principal (Academic)Studied his undergraduate degree at Cambridge after attending a comprehensive school, then completed a PhD at the University of Leicester with research posts at Cambridge and Berlin. Has held roles including Head of Mathematics, Pupil Progress Lead and Sixth Form Housemaster, chaired trustees at an Ofsted Outstanding special school trust, and served as a teacher-adviser on admissions testing to the University of Oxford.
Mark Adams
Director of Outreach and PartnershipsStudied Mathematics at the University of Manchester and completed the Teaching Advanced Mathematics programme at Warwick, later teaching internationally through the 'Warwick in Africa' programme. Previously Director of Post-16 Learning and Assistant Principal at St Thomas Aquinas Catholic School, where as Head of Mathematics he introduced Further Mathematics and pioneered primary-school outreach.
Durham Mathematics School
School profile →Ellen Beveridge
Chief Executive, Providence Learning PartnershipTook on the CEO role in 2023 having been Headteacher at Durham Sixth Form Centre since 2013, leading it to an Outstanding Ofsted judgement as a 16-19 school, after more than 25 years in teaching. No maths school headteacher has yet been named — she is the most senior figure currently attached to the project.
Peter Bowcock
Mathematics adviser (Associate Professor, Durham University)Associate Professor in Mathematical & Theoretical Particle Physics at Durham University, described by the school as its "mathematics expert" who will help provide stretching problem-solving education to prepare students for degree-level mathematics.
Alan Houston
Chair of Trustees, Providence Learning PartnershipFormerly Professor of History and Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Education) at Durham University, where he led the university's Access and Participation Plan; previously on the senior leadership team at UC San Diego. Holds a BA in Mathematics and Political Philosophy from Oberlin College and an MA and PhD in Government from Harvard.
University of Nottingham Maths School
School profile →Paul Smith
Chief Executive, East Midlands Education Trust (from April 2026)Appointed EMET's Chief Executive from 1 April 2026, having previously been Chief Education Officer at Northern Schools Trust, CEO of the White Horse Federation, and CEO of Future Academies. Earlier served as Regional Schools Commissioner for Lancashire and West Yorkshire. No headteacher has yet been named for Nottingham Maths School specifically.
Rob McDonough
Former Chief Executive, East Midlands Education Trust (resigned February 2025)Was EMET's CEO when the Nottingham Maths School partnership with the University of Nottingham was launched in 2023, and previously headteacher of West Bridgford School, a founding EMET member. Also chaired the Confederation of School Trusts nationally for five years before stepping down in 2023. Resigned as EMET's CEO on 28 February 2025.
Lisa Walton
Former Deputy CEO, East Midlands Education Trust (until June 2026)Served as EMET's Deputy CEO for four years, including 14 months as interim CEO bridging Rob McDonough's departure and Paul Smith's appointment. Gave the most recent public update on Nottingham Maths School's development, at a U-Maths Network Day in April 2026, shortly before leaving EMET in June 2026 to become Acting CEO of a different trust, St Ralph Sherwin Catholic Multi-Academy Trust.
The 1729 Maths School
School profile →Nick Hamshaw
Founding HeadHolds a Master of Mathematics from Oxford and has taught maths for over 25 years, starting at Aylesbury Grammar and as a boarding sub-tutor at Radley College, then as Head of Maths at Oundle School and Haberdashers' Boys' School, Academic Deputy Head at St Albans High School for Girls, and — immediately before 1729 — Senior Deputy Head at Haberdashers' Boys'. Has published textbooks and problem-solving guides for Cambridge University Press. Took up the Founding Head role on 1 September 2025.
Vladlena Kazantseva
Curriculum LeadAn alumna of School No. 57, a specialist maths school in Moscow, with a bachelor's and master's in Maths from the Higher School of Economics. Led advanced maths groups and organised Olympiads before working at Jeannine Manuel School and COMPOS Oxford.
Dr Elena Boguslavskaya
Head of Contemporary MathematicsOver twenty years of university teaching and research at City University London, LSE and Brunel University London, where she remains an Honorary Lecturer. Co-founder and trustee of the UK maths charity We Solve Problems. An alumna of Moscow's School No. 57, studied at Moscow State University, and holds a PhD in Mathematics from the University of Amsterdam.
Davide Leonessi
Teacher of MathsStudied Mathematics and then Mathematics with Computer Science at Oxford, researching the theory of infinite games, before specialising in Logic at the City University of New York. Coached his former school's Mathematical Olympiad team in Arezzo, Italy, taught at Stanford's summer maths camp, and lectured at Hunter College, New York, before completing a PGCE at King's College London.
George Sheppard
Housemaster of St Bees (the dedicated house for 1729 students)Has taught History and Politics at Mill Hill for five years alongside pastoral and boarding leadership roles, following a spell in the Civil Service. Completed an MPhil in Russian and East European Studies at Oxford, where he also taught, after an undergraduate double major in Political Science and Russian at Vassar College, New York.
Priya Taylor
Head of OperationsOver 20 years' experience turning ideas into working business operations. Previously Head of Commercial and Operations at RMS for Girls, responsible for day-to-day operations across catering, housekeeping and events as well as commercial strategy, and a founding member of New Wave Learning, where she built its operational infrastructure from the ground up.
David Benson
Head, Mill Hill SchoolFounded Kensington Aldridge Academy and led it to an Ofsted Outstanding rating with A-level results in the national top 10%; recognised by Tes as one of the UK's top ten educationalists. As Head of Mill Hill School he oversees the wider institution that hosts and delivers 1729.
Dr Susannah Abbott
Head, Belmont, Mill Hill PrepWas Senior Deputy Head at Queen's College and Acting Head of Queen's College Prep, and taught for a decade at Harrow, becoming its first female Housemaster. Holds a PhD in History and previously played football professionally, including in an FA Cup final; now represents independent schools on the FA Council. Oversees Belmont, which delivers 1729's Year 7 entry point.