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Pete Simpson, Assistant Headteacher, i/c Student Personal Development
Mr Simpson studied Mathematics and Psychology at the University of Leicester. Following two years working with children on the autistic spectrum, he took his PGCE at the University of Birmingham. He has taught both mathematics and psychology for nearly 24 years. Since joining Arden 20 years ago he has been a Head of Year, Head of Key Stage, Head of Sixth Form and is currently Assistant Headteacher in charge of Student Personal Development.
"Delivering a comprehensive careers education programme is a critical part of students' personal development. At Arden we are committed to hitting all the Gatsby Benchmarks, which essentially means that students leave Arden knowing their options and prepared for their future"
Kate Tipping, Director of Careers
Miss Tipping studied a combined honours degree in English Literature with the study of Religion at Hertfordshire University. Following a year working for Barclay’s bank, she took her PGCE at the University of Birmingham in Religious Studies. During her career, she has predominately taught Religious Studies and PSHE for over 20 years. During her teaching career she has been Head of Year, Head of PSHE, Head of Religious Studies, Trust Lead for PSHE and is currently Director of Careers.
"There is no single path in life, and careers are no different. At Arden, we aim to show our students that there are many routes to success after they leave. By engaging with our local community, parents, and alumni, we enhance our careers programme, ensuring it is meaningful and valuable for every student".
Sharon Butcher-Johns, Careers Guidance Counsellor
Mrs Butcher-Johns is a Registered Careers Development Professional and works with students in providing impartial careers education, advice and personal guidance; she also supports Mr Simpson in ensuring a full programme of careers education and opportunities are made available to Arden students. Use our referral form to see Mrs Butcher-Johns for 1:1 personal guidance.
"My goal is to ensure that students know their post-KS3, KS4 and KS5 options; have a better understanding of their dreams, goals, strengths, weaknesses, values, etc. (self-awareness), and a broader understanding of the labour market. They don't know what they don't know, and I aim to fill in the gaps"
Jennifer Whitehill, Futures Governor Link
Jennifer Whitehill has worked closely with the Futures Team at Arden Academy for a number of years and provides a valuable perspective to the careers provision, acting as a critical friend in her role as Governor Link.
"Careers education has never been so important and Arden is incredibly lucky to have such a dedicated Futures Team"
Brad Parkes, Enterprise Advisor
Before retiring last year, Brad Parkes was the Managing Director of Specsavers and Business Person of the Year 2020. He is an Optician, professional speaker coach/mentor, and now a published author of Making Clubs Work. Brad has kindly agreed to work with Arden Academy and enable us to use all his knowledge and skills to maximise the future outcomes of our students.
Having an industry specialist on board, helping us develop our career plan, and provide an employer's perspective, is immensely valuable to our Futures service.
"I'm always impressed with how invested the Futures Team at Arden are in educating and advising students about their future pathways"
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