Leadership Team

Mark graduated from Liverpool John Moores University after completing a BSC in Science and Outdoor Education and completed a QTS in his 4th year.

He joined Thurstable in September 2007 as Head of Science and has had various roles including Director for Attainment and Assistant Head Teacher for progress and attainment. As Deputy Headteacher he has responsibility for behaviour. He is committed to ensuring that every student is entitled to the very best education.

Elisabeth graduated from University College London with a BA (Hons) in English Language & Literature and worked for a short period in the fashion industry. She then completed a PGCE at the Institute of Education, London in English and Drama. Elisabeth also has a Masters in Teaching from the IOE and the NPQLTD from Ambition Institute.

Elisabeth joined Thurstable in 2007 as Assistant Head Teacher, before which she worked at Shenfield High School as Expressive Arts lead. She is a Steplab Certified Instructional Coaching Lead and a PGCE tutor for Colchester Teacher Training Consortium. 

Vicki graduated from Sussex University with a BSc (Hons) in Mathematics and then completed a PGCE at King's College, London. Vicki is very passionate about her subject and how it features in everyday life. 

She joined Thurstable as an Assistant Headteacher and Designated Safeguarding Lead in January 2025. Previously Vicki worked at Mayflower High School in Billericay for 20 years where she held various roles within pastoral including Designated Safeguarding Lead, Behaviour, Attendance, Primary Liaison and Admissions. Vicki is dedicated to ensuring all students are provided with the best opportunities to be successful. 

Philip graduated from Royal Holloway, University of London with a BA (hons) in History before completing both a PGCE and MA in History Education at the Institute of Education, University College London. 

Prior to joining Thurstable, he worked at Central Foundation Boys' School in London, as well as The British School of Milan in Italy. Philip arrived at Thurstable in September 2013 and during his time at the school has held the roles of Head of History, Director of Humanities and his current role of Assistant Headteacher. 

Philip is dedicated to ensuring that all pupils at Thurstable receive the very highest standard of education, centred on an ambitious curriculum and outstanding teaching. 

Danielle graduated from the University of Liverpool with a BSc (Hons) in Psychology in 2011 and then completed her PGCE with the Colchester Teacher Training Consortium.

Having completed her initial teacher training at Thurstable, she joined the school permanently in 2014. During her time at Thurstable, Danielle has held key leadership positions, including Director of Mathematics, prior to her appointment as Assistant Headteacher.

Danielle is dedicated to ensuring that all students at Thurstable are provided with the essential tools and support needed to succeed.

Catherine worked in the City of London where she held many senior positions in the financial sector including Business Analyst. After leaving London, Catherine managed the finance team in the Schools Advisory and Inspection Service at Essex County Council and became AAT qualified.  Catherine joined Thurstable School in 2008 as the School Business Manager, having held the same position previously at The Rickstones School.  Catherine is committed to ensuring that the staff and students have the best possible educational facilities at the school. 

Fiona graduated from Anglia Ruskin University with a Level 7 Diploma in Human Resources Management and is a member of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD). Fiona joined Thurstable School in 2007 having previously worked in the charity sector.  She is dedicated to fostering a supportive and engaging environment for both staff and students.