I have been the headteacher of 3 schools including Dodworth St John the Baptist. In 2003 I qualified as an OFSTED inspector and joined the opposition in inspecting a number of schools! I became a primary school teacher a long time ago after spending 4 years at Cambridge where I studied natural sciences and education. I taught in an independent boarding school in Buckinghamshire, where I was canvassed for my vote by Robert Maxwell, a comprehensive school in Sheffield and special schools in Barnsley prior to re-joining primary schools. As a mature student I became a qualified teacher of the visually impaired and taught in Sheffield at Mr Blunkett's old school using Braille and in at Henshaw's College in Harrogate.

I have two sons, Roland aged 24 works as a doctor in Edinburgh Royal Infirmary, and Tim my younger son is taking his GCSEs this year at Silcoates School where my husband teaches and where we live on the edge of the campus.

I have always enjoyed sailing and once sailed a winter season frostbiting series at Underbank reservoir in Stocksbridge in a single handed boat as no-one in the family would do it with me. It was so cold I didn't do it again. Later I changed to windsurfing which I now only do on holiday when it is warm. I like to swim to keep fit and I enjoy visiting other countries where I like to speak and learn other languages. I am a member of the Anglican church and go to services at Silcoates School and Wakefield Cathedral.

I love working with the children who attend Dodworth St Johns and really enjoy the friendly and hard working atmosphere in school with the staff.