What has been your career path so far?

I have always worked in Catholic education, but when I graduated from the University of Northumbria with a degree in geography and sports science, I did several work placements with young people in schools on play schemes for disadvantaged children. I quickly realised that working in schools was for me. I completed my NQT at St Mary and St Thomas Aquinas in Gateshead, before working at SS Peter and Paul Catholic Primary School in South Shields – part of Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust – where I was the SENCO for four years. I then worked in a very different, two-form entry school with a 12-place autism base, English Martyrs’ Catholic Primary in Newcastle, where I was head of school.

Why did you want to join St Joseph’s?

I completed my Catholic leadership qualifications and started looking out for headteacher roles, but I wasn’t in any rush until I visited St Joseph’s and loved it. Everyone has made me very welcome, and I can see Bishop Chadwick Catholic Education Trust really values people.

What does a ‘typical’ day look like?

No day is typical, which is why I love it. I always like to get into school early to reflect on the day ahead, check emails and set up for the day. I like to be out and about in school to meet parents and families. Mr Craig was here for over 10 years, and you can see how much he means to the community. If I don’t have to be at my desk I try to get around the classrooms and see the children. It’s all about building relationships with the whole school community.

What do you enjoy most about the job?

It is the variety. I always say if you need cheering up, visit Early Years! I love the interaction with the children. I’m very much a people person. We play a significant role in these children’s lives and their families’ lives, which is a privilege.

What are the key challenges facing the education sector?

Funding in schools. It is very difficult to make sure that we have the resources we need. Recruitment can be another challenge.

What changes or improvements are planned for this academic year and beyond?

St Joseph’s is a fantastic school, and it has so much outdoor space and we want the children to enjoy that. I appreciate the value of play. We have the space so it would be a real advantage to develop a great outdoor space. I also want to make international links. Last year, we took 30 children to Germany at my previous school. It gives children such great opportunities, different perspectives and experiences.

What is your leadership style?

Approachable and personable, and being realistic on things. I always say to people, “you are enough.” I know that people give their all in school and it is the kind of job where people can take it home with them, so it’s important to have a balance.

What is the best piece of leadership advice you have received?

As a leader, you must make lots of decisions, so the best piece of advice I have been given is to give yourself time to think and not rush into making decisions. In education, we are very passionate about our jobs, so it is important to give yourself some thinking time.

What has been your proudest achievement, both personally and professionally?

Personally, it’s my family; I’m very proud of my family. I have a fantastic wife and three amazing children who I am immensely proud of. Professionally, it’s got to be this job. As a practising Catholic who is proud of my faith, to lead a Catholic school is my proudest moment. My grandfather was in education and would be proud of it too. I was excited to join the school; we are building on really strong foundations.

How do you unwind?

The fact that I have three children under seven means I don’t get a lot of time to unwind! I go to the gym to train twice a week, and I do a lot of reading to switch off.

Favourite artist/band?

I enjoy such a range of music, but I really enjoy acoustic music, and I have been trying to learn the guitar for years.

Favourite film?

When I do get a chance to watch a film, I enjoy action films like the Die Hard trilogy.

Favourite book?

I like reading the Thursday Murder Club series and anything crime related. I really like the Inspector Ryan books by JL Ross which are set in the North-east.