SPECIALIST EDUCATION TRUST STAFF

SCHOOL SENIOR TEAM

Head Teacher: Miss Angela Mumford

I have worked at Littledown since 2006. I have a B. Ed. in English and Drama, NPQH, a Master’s Degree in Teaching and Learning, and I am a registered L5 Trauma Informed Practitioner. I have been teaching since 1998, in both mainstream and special schools. To help me relax, I love reading my Kindle or watching soppy films!

SENCo/DSL: Mrs Wendy Grant

I have worked at Littledown . I have a BA(Ed) in Science and the SENDCo qualification. I have been teaching since 1999, in both mainstream and special schools. To help me relax I love reading , wild swimming and walking my two lovely dogs. I enjoy holidays away - especially in my caravan. 

Assistant Head Teacher: Pupil Progress: Mrs Nicky Heaffey

I have worked at Littledown for seventeen years. I started many moons ago as a teaching assistant and studied hard to achieve a degree, eventually qualifying as a teacher. I have done many other jobs in the past, such as hairdressing, bar work and even a short time as an electrician’s mate! My aim in life is to travel and see as many places as I can.

Assistant Head Teacher: Behaviour and Inclusion: Mr Toby Davies

I started working at Littledown after coming out of University. After working in similar previous roles, I have been very impressed with the professionalism, commitment and ability of other staff. Staff work together in professional teams to facilitate the development of pupils educationally and personally. For me, this makes the job very enjoyable and rewarding. I am a huge sports fanatic, and, being a proud Welshman, am of course a keen rugby fan and player.

 

SCHOOL TEACHING STAFF

Teacher: Ms Ishara Perera (Comets)

I am an experienced Reception teacher with a passion for creating a nurturing and engaging learning environment where every child can thrive. I hold a BA in Fine Art and have a particular interest in creativity and the therapeutic benefits of art in supporting children’s wellbeing and self-expression. I enjoy working closely with children, families and colleagues to help every child reach their full potential. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, caring for my pets and pursuing creative interests.

Teacher - Mrs Kelly Le Pennec (Rockets)

I have a Bachelor’s degree in Primary Education and have been teaching since 2022. I joined Littledown School in September 2026 and am passionate about supporting children to achieve their potential, grow in confidence and celebrate their individual successes.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time in nature, going for long walks and visiting historical buildings. When I get the chance, I also love curling up under a cosy blanket with a good book.

Unqualified Teacher - Miss Tina Patel (Mercury)

I have been working at Littledown School for just over a year as a Teaching Assistant, which I very much enjoy. I joined after graduating from Kent University, where I gained a degree in Psychology, with hopes of becoming a child psychologist. Outside of work I enjoy baking and travelling.

Teacher - Mrs Colette Richardson (Jupiter)

 

Teacher - Miss Seema Bansal (Saturn)

I have been teaching for over 10 years, gaining valuable experience in both the UK and the UAE. I hold a BSc in Psychology with Criminology, as well as Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Working with children has always been a passion of mine, and teaching allows me to support and guide them through many different aspects of their lives, both academically and personally. Outside of teaching, I enjoy travelling and swimming, which help me to relax, unwind, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

Alternative Provision Teacher - Miss Elizabeth Calverley

With over 20 years of teaching experience, I have worked in a variety of schools across Surrey, supporting children in Early Years, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. As a qualified SENCO, I am passionate about creating inclusive environments where every child feels valued, supported and able to thrive.

I am delighted to be leading and teaching within the Alternative Provision at Littledown, a role that perfectly combines my passion for nurturing children's social, emotional and academic development. I strongly believe in the value of practical, hands-on learning experiences that engage children, build confidence and inspire curiosity. I am also passionate about PSHE and helping children develop the skills, resilience and self-awareness they need to navigate the world successfully.

Building positive relationships with children and their families is at the heart of my approach, and I am committed to helping every child feel safe, understood and empowered to achieve their full potential.

In my spare time, I enjoy trying to tame the weeds in my allotment and growing my own fruit and vegetables. I have also recently taken up "extreme day tripping" to Europe, challenging myself to visit a new destination for a single day using the cheapest flight I can find. Whether in the classroom, the garden or exploring a new city, I love learning new things and embracing new experiences.

 

SCHOOL CLASS BASED SUPPORT STAFF

AP Learning Mentor: VACANCY

AP Teaching Assistant: Ms Carly Fletcher

I am Level 3 qualified in Childcare. I also hold Level 2 in distress behaviour, special educational needs, and children's and young people's mental health. I have worked with children to help support them with their mental health over the years. 

When I’m not at work, I spend time with my children and, to help me relax, I like to listen to music.

Teaching Assistant & PE Learning Mentor: Mr Dan Fewster

I recently joined Littledown School after previously teaching PE at several schools. I am passionate about sport, having played a variety of team sports for local clubs, and I regularly coach football teams and individuals. Outside of school, I enjoy following Brentford F.C. home and away each weekend.

Teaching Assistant: Miss Viktoria Kozlowska

My name is Viktoria. I have worked at littledown since 2021. I have a Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning. During my free time I love spending time with my family and exploring different places. 

Teaching Assistant: Miss Emily Hawkins

Teaching Assistant: Mrs Alex Daci

Teaching Assistant: Mrs Selina Shah

I have worked in education for many years and have lots of experience supporting children with special educational needs, which is something I am very passionate about. I love helping children discover their strengths, build their confidence and enjoy learning in their own unique way. Outside of school, I’m a big fan of cooking and getting stuck in to a good book! Most of all, I love spending time with my children, taking them to new places, trying new things and exploring the world together. I’m a firm believer that some of the best learning happens through fun, curiosity and new experiences — and I’m always ready for the next adventure!

Teaching Assistant: Miss Asu Beshir

Teaching Assistant: Mr Tom Leask

Teaching Assistant: Miss Emma Robinson

I have worked at Littledown school since June 2025. Before that, I was a 1:1 in mainstream for 4 years. I have a L3 diploma in childcare and education and a L3 in SEN and Mental Health in children. In my free time, I love travelling with my family and watching movies with my 2 boys (Harry Potter is a favourite). 

Teaching Assistant: Mrs Najma Waris

I have been working at Littledown School since 2024.

I hold a BSC degree in Mathematics, Economics and statistics along with two master’s degree in Business Administration, specialising in Marketing and Research.

I am passionate about helping young minds achieve their learning goals and creating a supportive environment where children can grow in confidence and ability. Outside of work I enjoy listening to music and spending time in nature which helps me maintain balance and a positive mindset.

Teaching Assistant: Miss Alisha Bajwa

My passion for teaching started at a very young age. The thought of positively impacting young lives has always stood out to me. I have worked in both a Primary and Secondary school setting, mainstream and special school. I have worked at Littledown since January 2026. I have a BSc in Sport and exercise science as well as a L3 extended sports diploma. My favourite hobby is football, which I started playing at the age of 7.

Teaching Assistant: Miss Kerry Carpenter

I started working in Littledown in 2025 after volunteering whilst on my level 3 teaching assistant course. I enjoyed my time as a volunteer and took on the opportunity to work for the school. I want to help children to believe in themselves and teach them they can achieve what they want. I enjoy crochet and spending time with my family.

Teaching Assistant: VACANCY

 

OUT OF CLASS SUPPORT STAFF TEAM

Additional Provisions Mentor & Forest School Lead: Basierat Shah

I have worked at Littledown for over 10 years! The best part of my job is getting to work with all the children across the school as the Forest School Lead. I especially enjoy seeing the children explore, learn and grow through outdoor experiences. I also enjoy supporting children through SALT, OT and ELSA sessions, helping them to build their communication skills, confidence and emotional wellbeing. In my spare time, I love baking and trying out new food and coffee spots!

SCHOOL BEHAVIOUR & INCLUSION TEAM

Behaviour and Inclusion Co-ordinator: Hannah Gugan
Prior to working at Littledown, I worked in a secondary school for four years. I ice skate for fun and I have achieved NISA level 6. I also enjoy going to the cinema and look forward to my holidays so I can travel to different places – my favourite place so far is Egypt.

Behaviour and Inclusion Co-ordinator: Lisa Downing
I have worked at Littledown since 2012. I enjoy watching football and going to the cinema.

 

SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION STAFF

School HR and Administration Manager: Hari Atwal

I joined Littledown School in June 2024. I am enjoying working here with such wonderful staff and pupils. I have been working in schools for many years, based in different areas across Berkshire and London. I have worked in mainstream and special schools, ranging from primary and secondary schools. All have been different and great experiences.

Admin Officer: Clair Hodghton
I have worked at Littledown since 2004, and I enjoy my job very much.

Admin Officer: Dawn Akerman
I am qualified as a Nursery Nurse and have worked previously in a special school for 13 years and have managed a nursery school for five years. I decided on a career change and moved to Littledown in September 2017. In my spare time I enjoy cooking, crafting and going on holiday to Dorset.

Finance Assistant: Katie Ghebreyesus

 

OTHER SCHOOL STAFF

Lunchtime Controller: Clare Harry
I joined Littledown in October 2014 as a Lunchtime Controller. I enjoy my job, liaising with the children and ensuring lunchtimes run smoothly. My hobbies include reading, pop concerts and caring for my two guinea pigs – Brownie and Chip.

Senior Minibus Driver / Maintenance Person: Simon Tempest

 

SEBDOS STAFF

Head of SEBDOS: Julia Heath
I have been the manager of the SEBD Outreach Service since 2012. My background is in teaching and managing special needs in secondary schools. I enjoy reading, watching films and spending time with my family and Grandaughter. My favourite holiday destination is Cornwall.

Senior Administration Officer: Sofia Iqbal

I have been working at SEBDOS since 2023, where I use my strong administrative skills, having a fondness for document formatting and an unusual addiction to spreadsheets.
Outside of work, I enjoy cooking, baking, and reading.

Inclusion Project Co-ordinator: Alison Green
I am part of the SEBDOS Outreach Team working from Littledown. I have worked in education since 1994, firstly in mainstream and then as an Inclusion Mentor. I have been  Inclusion Project Co-ordinator for 3 years. I enjoy walking my dog Olive and holidays in the sun.

Inclusion Mentor: Nadine Hodge
I worked at Slough and Eton for 3 years in their Behaviour Unit. I started working in my current role as a Inclusion Mentor  in 2003 and during that time I have worked for Slough YOT as a Learning Mentor and Supervised court orders for young offenders. I have also been a Family Interventions Practitioner for the FIP Team. In my spare time I love spending time with my granddaughters and reading. I have been working with young people in Slough for 17 years. In my spare time I enjoy relaxing with my family and gardening.

Outreach Worker: Guj Chhokar
I have worked with children, young people and families for more than 10 years and have been a part of the SEBDOS team since 2007, supporting vulnerable children from both primary & secondary schools. When I’m not working I like travelling, reading & spending time with my friends and family.

Outreach Worker: Melanie Walker
I have worked in Slough since 2010. I have been working with families for 14 years, previously in social care, supporting families in crisis and preventing children going into the care system and now as part of the SEBDOS team at Littledown. I love camping with my daughters, being near the sea, horse riding and reading oh and girly rom-coms.

Family Link Worker: Danni Slater

I have worked at Littledown since 2015 in various different roles. I have recently moved over to the SEBDOs family work team to support children and families, which I incredibly passionate about. I studied at Reading University and have a BA in Child Development. In my spare time I like to go for walks in the woods and visiting new restaurants.

Home Education Teacher: Mrs Helen Johnson

I have worked as a teacher for many years and more recently spent 2 years teaching at Littledown in Y5. I now work for the SEBDOS team here, where I visit families that choose to home educate their children. I am enjoying the change in pace and varied role as well as continuing to work with wonderful colleagues. Away from work I enjoy walking my dog and reading.

 

LOCAL GOVERNING BODY / TRUST BOARD 

Chair of LGB & Vice Chair of Trust Board: Hazel Thorpe
I have been a volunteer for Littledown School since 2009. Currently, I am the chair of the Local Governing Body. I have supported the school in the transfer to become an Academy – The Specialist Education Trust, where I hold the volunteer position as a Director.

Local Governing Body Member: John Gonoud
I have been married for 33 years and have three grown-up children. I am originally from West London but have lived in the Slough area for nearly 35 years. I have worked as a governor for a Slough school for six years and my last role was as vice chair. At the same time as this, I served for two years as the special needs governor for Slough primary schools, reporting to Slough Borough Council. One of my sons is on the Autistic spectrum, which is why I initially got involved in supporting his school, as they were brilliant for us as a family. I enjoy all sports and still participate as often as I can!

Local Governing Body Member: Laura Good

I was appointed as a governor at Littledown school in 2023. I already have a BSc in Physics and a PGCE in secondary education. I have worked as a teacher for over 10 years in various schools across London. I enjoy playing netball and gardening when I'm not running around after my 3 children. 

Local Governing Body Member: Grant Sheehan

My experience is in leadership within secondary and post-16 education, with a particular focus on student leadership, pastoral development, and creating ambitious opportunities for young people. Alongside leading strategic initiatives, including the development of a coeducational Sixth Form, I have overseen programmes that promote student voice, mentoring, enrichment, and community engagement. I am proud to serve as a governor at Littledown School and am committed to ensuring that every young person is supported to flourish.

Local Governing Body Member: Clare Cunnington

I have a background in primary education. I have recently retired after teaching for 34 years in schools in Slough, Reading and High Wycombe. I have always been passionate about ensuring that all children have the best possible opportunities whatever their circumstances; finding the right learning environment for each and every child is something I strongly believe in.  

I hope that in my role as a Local Governing Board Member I will be able to draw on my previous experience to support the education of pupils at Littledown.

I live locally with my husband Paul and our cat Blossom.

 

Chair of Trust Board: Debbie Richards
Throughout my career I have sought opportunities to develop and utilise my professional expertise and to play an active part in educational developments. My focus has primarily been within the field of Special Educational needs and I thrive on the diversity and challenge that this cohort of learners offer. I have worked successfully in senior leadership positions in special schools for over twenty five years, of which nearly twelve years was as Headteacher of a large generic residential special school.
I have also served as a Governor in my local Infant school, and as Chair successfully supported a move to a Federated model between the Infant and local Junior school. The federation is highly successful and both schools are judged as Outstanding.
I have recently returned to classroom teaching and work in a resource base within a mainstream primary school. This experience means I am in a unique position of being able to understand the implications of school, local and national policy from three different perspectives.

Trust Board Member: John  Garner

My name is John Garner and I am a Trustee with the Specialist Education Trust which I joined in 2023.

I am Chair of Governors at a secondary school in Hillingdon which is part of a MAT and also a Vice Chair of Governors at an all through LA primary also in Hillingdon and I also sit on Schools Forum and the High Needs Funding committee as part of that group.

I became a governor because I believe that children only get one chance at a good education and so it is the responsibility of school staff, governors and trustees to do everything to make that a reality. 

The highlight for me as a governor is seeing children thrive when receiving a strong, broad and balanced education which will allow them to reach their full potential.

Governance Professional - Sandra D'Souza