Angela O'Rourke - Headteacher

I have a proven track record of excellence in leading, managing and stabilising schools in difficulty and in challenging circumstances.  I offer high levels of accountability in strategic and operational management in supporting rapid growth and in getting schools back on track.

I have worked in mainstream and independent sectors in pre preparatory, primary, secondary, special education as well as SEMH.

I have also held the post as senior examiner and presenter for AQA examinations and well as working as a consultant and course presenter for a leading training provider.

Fun fact:  I have an irrational attachment to David Beckham and am fanatical regarding all things Peloton.

Annette Illingworth - Deputy Headteacher

I have been working in education for over 30 years, mainly in the primary sector in a range of setting types. In the latter years, I have been in senior leadership posts, with a focus on rapid school improvement. 

Fun fact:  I drive a very old car, which causes me more stress than the day job.

Jackie Christofides - Assistant Headteacher

I have the honour of being the Assistant Headteacher at Southfield School. I trained at the University of Hertfordshire and received my Bachelor of Education Honours Degree in Primary Education with QTS in 2013.  I started at Southfield in September 2015 and joined as a Class teacher.  I enjoy helping all the children with their learning, both academically and personally, and working alongside families and professionals to support our pupils.  I feel very privileged to be part of the Southfield team and am excited for the future at Southfield. 

Fun fact:  I used to sing in a choir and sang at the Royal Albert Hall.

Sarah Lettis - Family Liaison Worker

I am the Family Liaison and I have been at Southfield school now for nearly 15 years. I have been in this role for 5 years now and was previously a HLTA in class. 

At Southfield, I am responsible for every child's transition into and out of school as well as their journey with us. I am the one consistent person for families throughout their time with us. I am the mental health lead for school for children and staff and have had this role for 3 years

. 

Other area's that I am responsible for are transport, social media pages and updates, extra-curricular activities including after school clubs, and I am a member of the safeguarding team. 

I am happily married with 2 older children and live local to the school. I enjoy family time, reading, eating out, going to the theatre and cinema.

Fun fact: My favourite clothes are pyjama's.

Mel Green - Pupil Champion and Lead Teacher for Autism, OT, HI and VI

I have been in teaching for 25 years. BA'Ed with QTS - degree in primary education.

I have been a Class Teacher, Lead Teacher for EYFS departments, Nurture Group Teacher as well as SENCo. Taught in 4 schools across London and Hertfordshire, including both mainstream and special settings.

Areas of expertise include child development and early learning, ASD, sensory difficulties as well as challenging behaviour and Social, Emotional and Mental Health difficulties. 

I work at Southfield as Pupil Champion and Lead Teacher for OT, ASD, HI and VI, working with colleagues to identify, plan and provide targeted and specialist provision for individual children, as well as Outreach Teacher providing advisory support to colleagues working with children with additional needs in mainstream settings within Hatfield and WGC.

Fun fact -  I can moonwalk (like Michael Jackson!)

Michelle Taylor - Office Manager

I joined the Southfield Team back in May 2022 and I am thoroughly enjoying every minute.  Before joining the team here, I was a Project Manager and also did a stint working in a Veterinary Surgery.

My role at Southfield is to oversee the smooth running of the school on a daily basis enabling the Senior Leadership Team to support all children during their time at Southfield School.

Fun Fact:  Mia, the school dog now has me as her own personal veterinary therapist.