I have lived in Bearpark for thirteen years, but I have been a resident of Durham since leaving university. I am a graduate of the University of Durham, where I studied for my first degree and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education; I also obtained an M.A. in Education after further part time study. I began my teaching career at Belmont Primary School but moved into secondary education shortly afterwards, specialising in English. I was Head of English at Stanley School of Technology for many years until I retired. Since retiring, I have maintained a passionate interest in education and am committed to ensuring that all pupils at Bearpark Primary School achieve their full potential. As a Governor, my special interest is literacy throughout the school; in addition I am a member of a number of committees.