About us

Joanne is the founder and English specialist of CHAT having gained experience over 18 years working with students with a range of needs.  A qualified Dyslexia Specialist and Assessor Joanne has a deep understanding of how to support students in breaking down barriers, enabling students who have previously have been unable to attain a grade to pass their GCSE.  Whilst teaching, Joanne successfully led developments across the English department that raised standards and increased the school's pass rate year on year.  Joanne has marked for the exam boards, providing a deep understanding of the requirements for each grade.  Through supporting students in establishing high standards, Joanne has created a learning environment for her students that sees them reach a potential they never appreciated before. Joanne has supported teachers in developing their subject knowledge and regularly trained new teachers due to her intimate knowledge of English pedagogy.

Gavin is a Mastery Specialist with the NCETM as well as a Local Leader in Maths Education and PD lead.  He has been accredited as a Lead Practitioner by the SSAT and supported other professionals in this path.  As leader of Teaching and Learning within Mathematics Gavin led his school to Specialist Status for Maths accredited by the SSAT within four years.  The year before Gavin arrived at the school, Maths GCSE grade A*-C were sitting at 17%.  Through leading the transition into academy status in the department, challenging under performance and supporting professional development, the Department reached 70.6% A*-C within 3 years.  This, along with strong working relationships with the governors and wider school community, were key for the school to be awarded Specialist Subject Status. Gavin now advises for schools and education businesses nationally whilst developing an online learning platform to further support students, which is available at www.muchsmarter.co.uk