Minerva Learning Trust
19th September 2019

New Staff to High Storrs

Rachel Ashley – Head of Lyceum House

I will be the new Head of House (Lyceum) and hope to bring enthusiasm and passion as I head into a completely new (and exciting) pastoral role.

I have been teaching Science for 5 years with a Biology specialism; first and foremost, I love my subject. I am excited to teach those that do (and inevitably do not) feel the same way!

Donna Barker – Teacher of DT

I’ll be joining the Design Technology team in September, which I’m really excited about. I’ve been teaching for 26 years in Nottingham, London, Sheffield and a stint in Japan!

I hope to bring fun, humour and all things STEM to HSS. I’m proud to be joining such a forward-thinking school and Trust.

Vicki Bates – Teacher of Food Technology

I have been teaching for 11 years and am joining HSS from Forge Valley School, where I taught Food Technology and was also Head of Year 10.

I am extremely enthusiastic about my subject, as well as ensuring all students are able to access and enjoy learning, no matter their background and ability.

I can’t wait to join HSS and be part of a fantastic team, working towards a common goal.

Nicola (Nic) Campion – Teacher of Physics

I teach Physics (because it is the best subject). I started teaching in September 2000 and have taught Physics and Biology up to A Level.

I hope to enthuse pupils in Physics so that they go on to study it further and believe, as I do, that it is fascinating. 

I’m very much looking forward to joining HSS in September 2019!

Hannah Cohen – teacher of English & Second in Department

I’ve been teaching for six years, all of them at Wingfield Academy in Rotherham! I have been the Acting Head of English, which has been a great challenge from which I’ve learned a lot. However, as a relatively small school that I’ve been in for a while, I wished for something very different and was lucky enough to get this job at HSS.

I’m really excited about working with the wonderful staff and students!

Kyle Commander – Teacher of Psychology

I will be joining HSS as teacher of Psychology in September 2019. Last year I completed my PGCE in Social Sciences at Manchester Metropolitan University. I was fortunate enough to spend my first placement at High Storrs and I am delighted to be able to begin my teaching career here as well. 

Having already experienced the creativity, passion and politeness of the High Storrs students, I am very excited to start the new academic year.

Debbie Ferguson – Teacher of Art

Hello, I'm Debbie Ferguson and am delighted to be joining the Art Department in September. I've been a teacher of Art and Photography for ten years and am excited to build on my experience in such a strong and supportive team.

Since having my own children I've been developing my art practice, specifically in printmaking and photography, and am looking forward to feeding this into my teaching at High Storrs. See you for a new adventure soon!

Krystyna Fulford – Teacher of Humanities

I teach Humanities, with a focus on History. I’ve been teaching for two years in Grimsby and Retford. Last year, I taught History, Geography, RE and Psychology.

I’m very excited to be joining HSS and look forward to working here!

Roisin Hartley – Teacher of English

I completed my degree in Performing Arts (Theatre) at Hull University and then moved to South Korea, where I taught English for 7 years. I completed my Masters in Applied Linguistics with the University of Birmingham and my PGCE with Sheffield SCITT and the University of Sheffield.

I am thoroughly excited to share my passion for both English Literature and English Language with students of all ages at HSS and to see young people grow in confidence and maturity as we read, write and perform great literature.

Rebecca (Bex) Johnston – Teacher of Chemistry

I have been teaching 10 years and was previously Head of Department at Sheffield Springs Academy. 

I’m Joining the Science team, part-time to allow me to focus time with my children and am very excited about developing my pedagogy and passion for teaching and learning.

Helen Marsh – Teacher of Dance

Hello, my name is Helen. I am a Dance teacher (part-time) and thrilled to become part of HSS. My professional dance training commenced at the Northern Ballet School at the age of 16 as a professional dancer and I travelled the world before returning to London to teach vocational students to become professional dancers.

I am looking forward to bringing my experience and creativity to the academic excellence at HSS.

Harry Nixon – Teacher of Sociology & Politics

My name is Harry and I will be a teacher of KS4 and KS5 at HSS. I have been teaching for 7 years, the last 5 spent at Brookfield Community School in Chesterfield where I was Head of Subject for Sociology and Politics and Head of Year 12. I will bring my extensive knowledge of both subjects, my enthusiasm and love for education and my passion for enriching the lives of young people.

I am excited to be returning to HSS as I worked here many years ago! It will be interesting to see how the school has changed in the time I have been away and to re-engage with my former colleagues and many new students!

Lewis Thompson - TEACHER OF MATHS

I will be joining High Storrs School as a teacher of Maths in September 2019. I have recently completed teacher training through Sheffield SCITT. 

I am excited to begin my teaching career at such an excellent school of fantastic staff and students.

Jo Westmoreland – Teacher of geography

Hello. I have been a Geography teacher for over 25 years and am excited about joining HSS and all this entails.

Emily Wharton – Teacher of Science

I completed my degree in Biomedical Sciences, specialising in Physiological Sciences, at Newcastle University, then returned to Sheffield to train as a Science teacher.

Having successfully completed my training year here at HSS, I look forward to sharing my passion for my subject with students who inspire me every day.

Jennie Wood – Teacher of Business & Economics (maternity cover)

I am returning to teaching after a career break for children. I have been teaching for 15 years; recently supply teaching in a variety of schools around Sheffield. Earlier this year I covered A Level Economics at HSS prior to Mr Hurst’s arrival.

I am really looking forward to meeting my new classes.

Emma Humphreys – Sixth Form Administrator

Hi! I will be working in the Sixth Form office as the Sixth Form Administrator. I have over 15 years admin experience working in various different roles. I am excited to be part of the High Storrs Team and looking forward to meeting the staff and students.