Meet The Team
Meet the Senior Leadership Team
Mrs Peden
BA.Ed (Hons)
Headteacher
Mental Health and Well-Being Leader
I have worked at Pear Tree Mead since 2004. I have worked in Reception and Year 3/4. I was Deputy Headteacher for 7 years and became the Headteacher in September 2014. I have been teaching for about 25 years and my passion is to help make a difference to children’s lives and education and help prepare them for their next steps. I enjoy working at Pear Tree Mead as I like to work with whole families and work together as a team.
I am also on the governing body. My role continues to be part of the Senior Leadership Support Team. I am the mental health and well-being lead in the school as well as the Deputy Safeguarding Lead.
Mrs Arnould
Assistant Headteacher
Safeguarding Leader
My name is Mrs Arnould and I am originally from Stoke-on-Trent, I am sure that you can tell from my accent! At home I have three beautiful daughters and I enjoy playing netball and other sports in my spare time. I have been a teacher since 2004 and have enjoyed working at Pear Tree Mead since 2009. I started as Early Years leader, part of the senior leadership team, moved into KS1 and then into the Assistant Head Teacher role.
I love my current role and endeavour to provide our school with the best opportunities and a supportive environment in order to thrive. I adore my job and am passionate about enabling children to reach their potential whilst having a great time. I want all children at PTM to love and respect their school and the people in it.
Mrs Davies
Deputy Headteacher
Behaviour Leader
Hello, I am Mrs Davies. I have worked at Pear Tree Mead for 15 years and enjoyed every minute of it! Some of you will know me as the Year 6 teacher as I have taught there mostly throughout the years. In 2014 I became the Deputy Headteacher, working alongside Mrs Peden (Headteacher) and Mrs Arnould (Assistant Headteacher).
I am hugely passionate about the direction in which the school is headed and enthusiastic about making Pear Tree Mead an exciting place for all the children to learn and thrive. At Pear Tree Mead Academy we aim to ensure that all children strive to reach the branches of their future and enjoy their individual journies!
Meet the Pre-School Team-
Mrs Nash
Learning Support Assistant & Mid-day Assistant
Hi, my name is Mrs Nash. I have worked at Pear Tree Mead for almost 10 years now. I have two children of my own. I am a qualified Learning Support Assistant with almost 10 years experience in nursery and have completed an autism awareness course. I am also paediatric first aid trained. This year I am based in Preschool, which I am really enjoying. I love getting to know the children and watching them grow.
Mrs Tappenden
Pre School Leader
My name is Mrs Tappenden, I am the Pre-School Leader here at Pear Tree Mead.
I started working at Pear Tree Mead in March 2015. I have worked in education since leaving college. I have a NVQ level 3 in Child Care and Education and I am always going on courses to gain more knowledge to help my little ones grow. I am very passionate about my job and love to see our 2 year olds having fun, learning new skills and watching their confidence grow.
Meet the Early Years Teachers-
Miss Butler
Early Years Teacher
Hello, my name is Miss Butler and I am teaching Cedar Class.
In 2012 I graduated from university with a BA Honours Primary Education teaching degree, I have previously taught in both Key Stage 1 and Early years.
I love teaching and I aim to be an enthusiastic teacher in your child’s classroom. In class I encourage and support all children to succeed. One of my main aims is to provide the children with exciting, dynamic and enjoyable lessons to promote their love of learning.
Feel free to get in touch if you need any information or would like to discuss anything, my door is always open.
Mrs McCombie
EYFS Teacher, PE Coordinator, Outdoor Learning Lead
I have been teaching at Pear tree Mead Academy since March 2011. I carried out my teacher training at London South bank University and I hold a level 3 qualification in Forest School.
Within my time at Pear Tree Mead Academy I have taught Year 1, Year 2 and Reception. I have been subject lead for Geography and Design Technology. I am lead for Physical Education and Outdoor Learning across the school. I want children to get the opportunity to experience nature, make their own choices, take risks and develop at their own pace. I am passionate about Early Years and I firmly believe that a good foundation is the key to a good education.
Meet the Key Stage 1 Teachers-
Mrs Bolger
KS1 Teacher
I have been teaching at Pear Tree Mead Academy since September 2006, when I joined as a Newly Qualified Teacher (NQT). I carried out my teacher training at the University of Plymouth, where I studied for four years and was awarded a BEd (Hons). Within my time at Pear Tree Mead I have been the subject leader for History, Geography, Religious Education and I am currently the subject leader for English.
In Juniper Class we promote an excitement for learning and we encourage all the children to achieve their personal best. We have and impart confidence in each individual’s ability and give them a desire for success.
Miss Bevans
KS1 Teacher
Hello, I’m Miss Bevans and I will be teaching Fir class this year!
I’m very excited to begin my teaching career here at Pear Tree Mead, having recently studied at the University of Hertfordshire and achieved my BEd honours degree with QTS at a first class level.
In reception we aim to provide a stimulating and fun environment where children can explore the different areas of learning to develop their knowledge and understanding. Alongside this, I feel very passionately about creating a space in which children feel they belong and are part of a team.
If you ever need anything or have any questions please do not hesitate to ask, my door is always open!
Miss Sutherland
KS1 Teacher
Hi, I’m Miss Sutherland!
In KS1 we aim to create dynamic and exciting opportunities for children to explore in order to gain new skills, promote their love for learning and support their emotional, social and academic development.
I have recently graduated with a BA honours in Early Childhood Studies with QTS at the University of East London and look forward to starting my teaching journey at Pear Tree Mead.
Mrs Goldhawk
KS1 Teacher
Hello, I am Mrs Goldhawk and I am so pleased to be working back here at Pear Tree Mead. This year I am excited to be part of the KS2 team, as one of teachers in Pine class. I have previously taught in early years and KS1. In 2018 I graduated from Anglia Ruskin University with a BA Honours in Early Childhood and Education Studies.
My aim is to inspire all pupils through fun, exciting and engaging learning. I can’t wait to support each child to tackle new challenges, grow and develop in all areas; academically, socially, and emotionally. I will also be the Subject Leader for Geography this year.
I will be teaching Hazel class on Thursdays and Fridays this year. We are all looking forward to the year ahead. If you have any questions or queries, please know my door is always open and I’ll be happy to help in any way I can.
Miss Cuffaro
KS1 Teacher
Hello, I am Mrs Cuffaro. I have worked at Pear Tree Mead since 2007 and enjoyed every minute of it! I have taught in EYFS, KS1 and LKS2. I am currently working 3 days a week in year 2 with a brilliant team.
I am hugely passionate about the teaching and believe that every moment spent in the classroom is a chance for children to foster a love for learning and to spark imagination. I feel that teaching is not merely imparting knowledge but also cultivating empathy, resilience, and a lifelong passion for understanding the world. In the heart of a teacher lies a boundless commitment to shaping futures and making a difference, one lesson at a time.
Meet the Lower Key Stage 2 Teachers-
Ms Fry-Smith
Currently on Maternity Leave
Hi, my name is Ms Fry-Smith. I studied Psychology at Sussex University, worked in a special needs school and then as a support and development worker for Islington council before completing my PGCE at the University of East London.
I spent 2 years teaching in Leeds before moving back home to London and teaching in Colchester. I have been working at Pear Tree Mead since January 2018 and I absolutely love the school. I am currently Science lead and I am extremely passionate about this subject. I am excited to be teaching in LKS2 this year and I cannot wait to support the children to grow and develop.
If you have any questions or queries, please do not hesitate to speak to me.
Mr Feast
LKS2 Teacher
Hi, I am Mr Feast. I am in my first year of teaching and I cannot wait to see some familiar faces from my time on placement! I am a keen Liverpool supporter and love football amongst many other sports. I love music and you will come to find I will get you listening to all sorts of music in class! One fun fact about me is that I have owned all sorts of animals throughout my life, including snakes, a tortoise, chickens, bearded dragons and the list goes on!
Mr Humphries
LKS2 Teacher
Hi! I'm Mr Humphries, and I am excited to be continuing my teaching journey at Pear Tree Mead. I started my teaching career through studying Primary Education at Anglia Ruskin University in Chelmsford. This took me three years, and now, I have been teaching for 5 years!
I’m thrilled to be working in Oak classroom with Year 4. Throughout the year I hope to provide fun and engaging lessons within a stimulating learning environment.
If you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask!
Miss Ferran
LKS2 Teacher
Hi, my name is Miss Ferran, and I am thrilled to embark on my first year of teaching. I graduated from UCFB Wembley University in 2023 with a BA Honours in Football Business and Media. Following my graduation, I pursued my passion for education by joining the FIPC Primary Initial Teacher Training program, where I completed my PGCE and teacher training. I am excited to be a part of this wonderful team and am dedicated to creating fun and engaging lessons within a stimulating learning environment, supporting each child's growth and development.
Miss Parr
LKS2 Teacher
Hi everyone, I’m Miss Parr and I have been working at Pear Tree Mead since 2022. I am one of the Year 4 teachers and teach Pine class. I have also taken on the monitoring of RE across the school, which is a subject that I always loved myself and that I later went to study at university. I graduated from Heythrop University, in 2016, with a BA Study of Religions degree. I continued my studies by joining the West Essex SCITT programme in order to complete my teacher training. I feel very happy to be a part of the Pear Tree Mead team, getting to know your children and also welcoming them into Year 5. As a teacher, I believe in a classroom environment where children feel safe and valued. I will aim to help the children to develop a growth mindset, where they know it is ok to make mistakes, and that all I will ever ask of them is that they try their best. If you have any questions, or there is anything that you need from me, please feel free to come and speak to me.
Meet the Upper Key Stage 2 Teachers-
Miss Millward
UKS2 Teacher
Hello, my name is Mrs Millward and I teach in year 5. I studied Media and Cultural studies with American Studies at University and went on to study to become a teacher, starting my first teaching post in Waltham Abbey.
With our Sycamore class we will create a safe, stimulating, and happy classroom. I have a great passion for reading and believe that if children can read, they can access all the other parts of the national curriculum. I will make sure the children are happy, happy children learn!
Any questions please ask, my door is always open.
Miss Garip
UKS2 Teacher
Hello, I am Mrs Garip! This year I am pleased to be part of the UKS2 team as one of the teachers in Sycamore class. Together with Mrs Millward, we are both excited to learn new topics and embark on our learning journey together!
I started my journey in teaching as a teaching assistant at just 18 years old, soon realising I wanted to be a teacher myself! I graduated from Middlesex University what feels like a lifetime ago in 2013, with BA Honours in teaching and learning. Since then, I have worked in schools in London and now in Essex, continuing to grow and flourish as a teacher. I have taught in both KS1 and KS2 and I hope to create a stimulating, welcoming environment for all children to also grow and develop their love of learning.
Mr Thurgood
UKS2 Teacher
Hello! My name is Mr Thurgood and I teach Redwood class. I am in charge of Computing across the school, which I find is a really exciting subject!
I graduated from Coventry University with a BA Honours Sociology degree and then after a year out went on to study for my PGCE, starting my first teaching post in Basildon. I moved to Harlow from Chelmsford and I have been working at Pear Tree Mead since 2016.
I aim to provide a varied and exciting learning environment in which children feel that they are safe to learn through hard work and trying new things. I expect children to be honest, hardworking and to develop a growth mindset where they are not afraid to make mistakes and learn from them. I am looking forward to the rest of the year with Redwood class and to meeting and working closely with parents.
If there is anything you need from me, please feel free to speak to me.
Miss Warner
UKS2 Teacher
Hi, I am Miss Warner and this is my eighth year teaching here at Pear Tree Mead. I am Year 6 lead, and this will be my sixth year of teaching Year 6. However, I have experience in teaching all of KS2. I am the lead for English across the school, alongside Mrs Bolger.
I graduated from the University of Hertfordshire with a BSc Sports Studies degree and continued my studies by going on to study for my PGCE in primary education and completing my teacher training at Pear Tree Mead.
I am very excited to get to know your children and welcome them into year 6. I believe in a positive and engaging learning environment where children enjoy coming to school. I have high expectations, however I believe it is important to reward those who are working hard and showing a positive growth mindset!
Please feel free to get in touch with me if you have any questions!
Miss Burke
UKS2 Teacher
Hi there!
This is my tenth-year teaching at Pear Tree Mead. Originally, I come from Ennis, Co. Clare, on the west coast of Ireland and I have now been living in the U.K for the past 15years, which I am lucky to call my second home!
In the school, I am the Maths coordinator, and I also have other roles such as the UKS2 Phase Leader and the MDA line manager. I also run the ‘Young Voices’ singing club with the help of Miss Bevans, which gives pupils the opportunity to eventually perform at the O2 in London in January.
As a teacher, I believe that ‘Every Child Matters’ and I encourage my pupils daily to have a ‘growth mind-set’ to empower them to become the best version of themselves and be proud of their achievements, as they get ready for secondary school.
Meet the Nursery Learning Support Assistants-
Mrs Burland
Nursery Manager
Hello, my name is Mrs Burland. I am the Nursery Manager. I have a level 4 qualification and I am first aid trained. I have been working at Pear Tree Mead since 2012. Working here is thoroughly enjoyable and very rewarding. I enjoy being part of a fantastic team here at PTM. I am looking forward to spending time getting to know the children in Nursery and my aim is to provide a safe, nurturing and happy learning environment for them to enjoy.
Mrs Menivili
Deputy Nursery Manager
Hello, I’m Mrs Menevili, I’ve recently joined Pear Tree Mead, currently working within the nursery.
I have over 18 years of experience working in a variety of settings and age ranges. I’ve qualified a BA Honours in Education and have two children of my own, who both attend Pear Tree Mead.
I’m very excited to be here at Pear Tree Mead to continue many more years of experience and developing the children’s educational needs and having fun.
Mrs Newland
Learning Support Assistant
Hi, I am your Class Teaching Assistant. Early Years is my passion and I am proud to be part of the Early Years team. I love supporting your children to discover new exciting experiences, learn new skills and help them settle happily into school life.
I have 40 years’ experience working in Early Years settings, including running my own and local playgroups, before raising my family. I started at Pear Tree Mead as an N.N.E.B. qualified Nursery Nurse in 1996 and have worked in both Nursery and Reception Classes.
This year, once again I will be based in Ash Class working across both Nursery classes. I will also be working as a Learning Support Assistant with individual children in Reception.
Mrs Gilbody
Learning Support Assistant
My name is Mrs. Gilbody, I have been a volunteer and helper at many events at Pear Tree Mead. I have got to know the school very well with both of my children attending the school.
I have recently joined the nursery team as an LSA and midday assistant, where I enjoy getting to know the children and helping them with their learning and development.
Meet the Reception Learning Support Assistants-
Mrs Mead
Reception Learning Support Assistant & Mid-day Assistant
Hey! I’m Mrs Mead and I have been a member of staff at Pear Tree Mead since 2007. I have worked across the school over the years, but have mostly worked in Reception class, which is a year group I really enjoy being part of. I am currently working in Beech class supporting all the children across Reception and last year, I took on the role as Mid-day Assistant for Reception. Alongside Mrs Thurgood, I also help to run Gym Trail which supports children’s fine and gross motor skills. I am interested in the children’s social and emotional development and creating a stimulating environment.
Mrs Waterman
Reception Learning Support Assistant
Hi, my name is Mrs Waterman and I have just joined Pear Tree Mead in September 2023 as a Learning Support Assistant in Reception.
I am extremely passionate about Early Years, I have run my own business in the early years sector for the last four years and I absolutely love working with children.
I am really looking forward to helping the children grow in confidence and reach their full potential in Reception.
Miss Thomas
Learning Support Assistant
Hello! My name is Miss Thomas
I am a Learning Support Assistant in Reception. I am enjoying getting to know the children and helping them to learn new things, build friendships and develop their confidence and independence.
Mrs Dodson
Reception Learning Support Assistant
My name is Mrs Dodson. I joined Pear Tree Mead Academy in January 2019.
I am proud to work alongside such an amazing and supportive team of people.
I have enjoyed working with children in different year groups as a Teaching Assistant. I love working with children and supporting them in their learning journey. It is very rewarding to see the growth in their confidence throughout the course of the year.
I am currently working in year 4 as SEND Learning Support Assistant.
Meet the Key Stage 1 Learning Support Assistants-
Miss March
KS1 LSA
Hi, I’m Miss March. I am currently a learning support assistant in Year 1.
I started off at Pear Tree Mead as a midday assistant. Getting to know all the children in the hall was a wonderful experience, and I am so grateful to have the opportunity to work with some of them in the classroom now.
I am really looking forward to growing and developing with the children as we take this journey together.
Miss Westbrook
KS1 Learning Support Assistant
Hi my name is Miss Westbrook and I have just joined Pear Tree Mead as a learning support assistant in year 1. I am level 3 qualified in childcare and education and have worked in early years for almost 20 years. I am really excited for my new journey in the school and getting to know all of the children and supporting them in their learning and development.
Miss Cousins
KS1 Teaching Assistant, Mid-day Assistant & Cleaner
Hi, my name is Miss Cousins. I started working at Pear Tree Mead in 1998. I work as a Learning Support Assistant, Mid-day Assistant and Cleaner. I enjoy all three of my jobs as I get to work with lots of different staff, as part of our fantastic team.
Miss Brown
KS1 Learning Support Assistant & Mid-day Assistant
My name is Miss Brown. Since joining Pear Tree Mead in 2014, I have worked mainly within Early Years and Key stage 1. For this school year I will be working in year 1, as well as helping to cover the KS1 playground as a Mid-day Assistant. In 2016, I completed the Advance Level 3 Apprenticeship in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools. In 2017, I went on to complete the Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism.
Mrs Timpson
KS1 Teaching Assistant
My name is Mrs Timpson and I have been a part of Pear Tree Mead since my children attended here. Firstly, as an Mid-day Assistant and now as a Teaching Assistant. I find it very rewarding working with the children and watching them grow.
Mrs Devereux
KS1 Learning Support Assistant
Hello, My name is Mrs Devereux. I joined Pear Tree Mead in January 2023. I have a NVQ level 2 in child care health and development and I am currently studying towards a degree in Psychology which I’m finding interesting. I am a mum to three boys and I have lots of personal experiance of caring for children with adhd and autism. I’m really looking forward to working within the school and getting to know everyone
Meet the Lower Key Stage 2 Learning Support Assistants-
Mrs Papaphilippou
LKS2 Learning Support Assistant & Mid-day Assistant
Hi, I’m Mrs Papaphilippou. I am a Teaching Assistant in Reception. I started off at Pear Tree Mead as a volunteer, helping out where and when I could, I have now been given this fantastic opportunity to work with some amazing people to help and encourage our children to achieve their potential.
Mrs Fleming
LKS2 Learning Support Assistant
Hey, My name is Mrs Fleming. I have been a Learning Support Assistant at Pear Tree Mead since May ‘22. This year I will be working across year 1 and supporting in the Nurture group in the afternoons. I have completed courses in Autism Awareness and have my Teaching Assistant level 2. I am currently completing my Level 3 in supporting teaching a learning. Every day is a new challenge and I love helping the children navigate their way to there fullest potential.
Miss Humphreys
LKS2 Learning Support Assistant
Hi I am Miss Humphreys.
I have worked in the childcare industry for over 15 years working with a range of ages and abilities . I have a NVQ level 2 and level 3 diploma in childcare . I love teaching and helping each child grow to become their own individual person.
Mrs White
LKS2 Teaching Assistant & Mid-day Assistant
Hi, my name is Mrs White. I have been part of the Pear Tree Mead community since my children attended the school. I love working with the children and watching them grow and also working alongside the dedicated staff at Pear Tree Mead.
Mrs Chippett
LKS2 Teaching Assistant and Intervention Teaching Assistant
My name is Mrs Chippett and I have been working at Pear Tree Mead for 28 years. I started working in the Nursery and have since worked with various age groups around the school. I enjoy my current role as Hazel Class LSA and KS1 Interventions Teaching Assistant, working alongside a great KS1 team. I work with the belief that every child matters.
Mrs Webb
LKS2 Teaching Assistant, Mid-day Assistant, Cleaner
Hi, my name is Mrs Webb. I have two children who both attend Pear Tree Mead and I have recently joined Sycamore class as a Teaching Assistant. I am also a member of the MDA team. I really enjoy working with a great bunch of people!
Miss Harrington
LKS2 Learning Support Assistant
Hi, my name is Miss Harrington.
I joined the Pear Tree Mead team in March 2023 working in Year 2 as a SEND Learning Support Assistant. This year I am excited to be working as an MDA and LSA in Year 3.
I am thoroughly enjoying my time here. It is wonderful to see the children growing and learning together.
Meet the Upper Key Stage 2 Learning Support Assistants-
Mrs Ward
UKS2 Learning Support Assistant
Hello. I’m Miss Ward and recently joined Pear Tree Mead school. I have worked in education for over 20 years. I am really enjoying my time at the school and have been welcomed by both the staff and pupils. I’m looking forward to the coming year getting to know the children and supporting them in class and small groups. It will be lovely watching them grow and develop.
Mrs Hayden
UKS2 Teaching Assistant
Hi, I’m Mrs Hayden and the Teaching Assistant in Willow Class this year. I have been working here at Pear Tree Mead for 16 years. I am very lucky to have worked in most year groups during this time. I find working with our pupils very rewarding, it’s great to see them learn, develop and grow into confident, young citizens. It’s also great to be working alongside a fantastic and dedicated team.
Mrs Thorne
UKS2 Intervention Teaching Assistant & Mid-day Assistant
Hi, my name is Mrs Thorne and I have worked at Pear Tree Mead since 2000. I have been in Year 6 for the last 14 of those years. I really enjoy being part of the Year 6 team and working with the children to help them achieve their best. I am also the Mid-day Assistant lead for KS2, a role I really enjoy.
Miss Hammond
UKS2 Learning Support Assistant
Hi, my name is Miss Hammond and I have just recently started at Pear Tree Mead. I am happy to be joining the Oak classroom with Year 6 and will be working with some of our SEND children.
I am very excited to the coming year and getting to know all the children and supporting staff around the school.
Miss Coggin
UKS2 Learning Support Assistant
Hello! I am Miss Coggin and I have worked at Pear Tree Mead since 2022. This year I will be working in the amazing Sycamore class with a fantastic team! I have over 7 years experience working in education; mostly in Reception, year 4 and year 5. I love my job and believe every child has the chance to succeed to the best of their abilities if given the right tools to do so. I believe school should be a happy, fun and safe learning environment for children and I truly believe that every member of the Pear Tree Mead staff work together to achieve this for each and every pupil.
Meet the Learning Mentors-
Mrs Williams
Learning Mentor Team Leader
Hello, my name is Mrs Williams and I have been working at Pear Tree Mead since 2000. My first role was as a Mid-day Assistant, supporting children during their lunch in the dining hall and within the playground environment. I became a Teaching Assistant in 2001 and three years after, in 2004, I trained to become a Higher Level Teaching Assistant In this role I supported classes by leading the teaching; I’ve had experience in teaching Nursery through to Year 6.
I’m now a full time Learning Mentor and have been doing this role for the past 11 years. I became the Learning Mentor Team Leader in 2019. In this role, I work alongside the children across the school and help support the students to find a positive learning and school experience.
Meet the Specialist Teachers-
Mr Mann
Specialist Teacher
Hello, My name is Mr Mann and I am the swimming coach at Pear Tree Mead.
Mrs Holgate
Swimming Instructor
Mrs Taylor
Swimming Instructor
Meet the Administration Team-
Mrs Townsend
P.A. to the Headteacher, Attendance Officer & Clerk to the Governing Body
I started working at Pear Tree Mead in 2010. I really enjoy my job; it is a very busy role and there is always lots to do! As well as holding a Business and Administration qualification, I am the office manager, I have some lovely new office ladies this year , which I am super excited to be working alongside. Mrs Hayton will be your first point of contact moving forward, whilst Mrs Lyon will be looking after all the pupil administration. My job is such a varied role and this year I am going to be looking after some of the financial aspects of the school, such as payroll, HR and Health and Safety. This will give me a new challenge and makes my job at Pear Tree Mead forever interesting. I will still be Mrs Peden’s PA and it is my job to make sure she is organised and has everything she needs daily to be a super Headteacher!
In my ‘spare’ time I am still committed to the school by providing a Clerking service to our Governing Body. I must retain lots of legal and important information to be able to help the Governing Board be as effective as they can be. Being a Governor can be a very rewarding role, if this is of interest to you, please do contact me to find out more.
Mrs Hayton
Front of House & Communications Administrator
My name is Mrs Hayton and I joined the lovely admin team in June 2022. I thoroughly enjoy meeting and greeting pupils, parents, carers and visitors as well as staff at the front of office. I have over 12 years office experience. I look forward to the year ahead, and being part of a wonderful team!
Mrs Robinson
Admin Assistant
My name is Mrs Robinson and I started as a parent volunteer in the Nursery when my youngest son started. I joined the school as a Teaching Assistant in Reception a year later. I have been lucky to have worked in every year group in the many years I have been here. I am now part of the Admin Team. It is great being part of a fantastic team.
Meet the Family Support Team-
Mrs Townsend
P.A. to the Headteacher, Attendance Officer & Clerk to the Governing Body
I started working at Pear Tree Mead in 2010. I really enjoy my job; it is a very busy role and there is always lots to do! As well as holding a Business and Administration qualification, I am the office manager, I have some lovely new office ladies this year , which I am super excited to be working alongside. Mrs Hayton will be your first point of contact moving forward, whilst Mrs Lyon will be looking after all the pupil administration. My job is such a varied role and this year I am going to be looking after some of the financial aspects of the school, such as payroll, HR and Health and Safety. This will give me a new challenge and makes my job at Pear Tree Mead forever interesting. I will still be Mrs Peden’s PA and it is my job to make sure she is organised and has everything she needs daily to be a super Headteacher!
In my ‘spare’ time I am still committed to the school by providing a Clerking service to our Governing Body. I must retain lots of legal and important information to be able to help the Governing Board be as effective as they can be. Being a Governor can be a very rewarding role, if this is of interest to you, please do contact me to find out more.
Mrs Thurgood
Inclusion Manager
Hello, my name is Mrs Thurgood and I joined Pear Tree Mead as a Classroom Teaching Assistant in 2009. I progressed to becoming a Level 3 Teaching Assistant and then began working as an Interventions Teaching Assistant, providing phase support for Years 3 and 4.
My current job role is as an Assistant SENDco working alongside Mrs Martin. This role enables me to work closely with pupils, staff and families to support children with additional needs. I continue to run individual interventions for identified children and work closely with Mrs Cooper to run Gym trail. I enjoy being part of a fantastic team that strive to help the children here to develop and reach their full potential.
I have previously been vice chair for the Friends of Pear Tree Mead committee and continue to support by being the school liaison. I get to work alongside a group of fantastic, dedicated parents helping to arrange exciting and fun activities for the children. The fundraising helps to provide extra opportunities and equipment that help enrich the education and experiences for all the children here, at Pear Tree Mead.
Mrs Williams
Learning Mentor Team Leader
Hello, my name is Mrs Williams and I have been working at Pear Tree Mead since 2000. My first role was as a Mid-day Assistant, supporting children during their lunch in the dining hall and within the playground environment. I became a Teaching Assistant in 2001 and three years after, in 2004, I trained to become a Higher Level Teaching Assistant In this role I supported classes by leading the teaching; I’ve had experience in teaching Nursery through to Year 6.
I’m now a full time Learning Mentor and have been doing this role for the past 11 years. I became the Learning Mentor Team Leader in 2019. In this role, I work alongside the children across the school and help support the students to find a positive learning and school experience.
Miss Taylor
SEND Team
Hi, I am Miss Taylor and very pleased to be joining Pear Tree Mead as the Assistant SendCo. My background is Early years, SEND & Management for over 10 years. I have two children a little girl aged 4 and boy aged16, they keep me busy and in my spare time i enjoy running and meeting my friends. I am very excited about my new role here at PTM. I am extremely passionate about Send and Education. I look forward to working with the school, parents and getting to know everyone.
Meet the Mid-Day Assistants-
Mrs Taylor
Mid-day Assistant & Cleaner
Hello, I’m Mrs Taylor, I am a Mid-day Assistant and a Cleaner at Pear Tree Mead. I enjoy seeing the children at lunchtime and getting to know all their different personalities. I also enjoy cleaning up after school in preparation for the next day.
Mrs Nash
Nursery Learning Support Assistant & Mid-day Assistant
Hi, my name is Mrs Nash. I joined Pear Tree Mead in 2014. I am a qualified Teaching Assistant and have worked in our Nursery class since 2014. I also have qualifications in understanding autism and mental health. I love working with the children and I am looking forward to helping the new children settle in.
Mrs Mead
Reception Learning Support Assistant & Mid-day Assistant
Hey! I’m Mrs Mead and I have been a member of staff at Pear Tree Mead since 2007. I have worked across the school over the years, but have mostly worked in Reception class, which is a year group I really enjoy being part of. I am currently working in Beech class supporting all the children across Reception and last year, I took on the role as Mid-day Assistant for Reception. Alongside Mrs Thurgood, I also help to run Gym Trail which supports children’s fine and gross motor skills. I am interested in the children’s social and emotional development and creating a stimulating environment.
Miss Cousins
KS1 Teaching Assistant, Mid-day Assistant & Cleaner
Hi, my name is Miss Cousins. I started working at Pear Tree Mead in 1998. I work as a Learning Support Assistant, Mid-day Assistant and Cleaner. I enjoy all three of my jobs as I get to work with lots of different staff, as part of our fantastic team.
Miss Brown
KS1 Learning Support Assistant & Mid-day Assistant
My name is Miss Brown. Since joining Pear Tree Mead in 2014, I have worked mainly within Early Years and Key stage 1. For this school year I will be working in year 1, as well as helping to cover the KS1 playground as a Mid-day Assistant. In 2016, I completed the Advance Level 3 Apprenticeship in Supporting Teaching and Learning in Schools. In 2017, I went on to complete the Level 2 Certificate in Understanding Autism.
Mrs Webb
UKS2 Teaching Assistant, Mid-day Assistant, Cleaner
Hi, my name is Mrs Webb. I have two children who both attend Pear Tree Mead and I have recently joined Sycamore class as a Teaching Assistant. I am also a member of the MDA team. I really enjoy working with a great bunch of people!
Mrs Papaphilippou
KS1 Learning Support Assistant & Mid-day Assistant
Hi, I’m Mrs Papaphilippou. I am a Teaching Assistant in Reception. I started off at Pear Tree Mead as a volunteer, helping out where and when I could, I have now been given this fantastic opportunity to work with some amazing people to help and encourage our children to achieve their potential.
Mrs Thorne
UKS2 Intervention Teaching Assistant & Mid-day Assistant
Hi, my name is Mrs Thorne and I have worked at Pear Tree Mead since 2000. I have been in Year 6 for the last 14 of those years. I really enjoy being part of the Year 6 team and working with the children to help them achieve their best. I am also the Mid-day Assistant lead for KS2, a role I really enjoy.
Meet the Cooking Team-
Mrs Kluza
Kitchen Manager
Mrs Dukes
Kitchen Assistant
Mrs H Bright
Kitchen Assistant
Miss S Bright
Cook
Meet the Cleaning Team-
Mr Hawkins
Site Manager
Hi, my name is Mr Hawkins, and I am the Site Manager. I left school in 1979 and completed an apprenticeship to become an electronics engineer. In October 1998 I joined Pear Tree Mead. Within my time as Site Manager I have completed various courses to keep me up to date with Health and Safety & new practices, etc. My role as Site Manager is to oversee the day to day running of the school and ensure it is a safe learning environment for both children and staff. I am also in charge of a team of 7 cleaning staff.
Mrs Taylor
Mid-day Assistant & Cleaner
Hello, I’m Mrs Taylor, I am a Mid-day Assistant and a Cleaner at Pear Tree Mead. I enjoy seeing the children at lunchtime and getting to know all their different personalities. I also enjoy cleaning up after school in preparation for the next day.
Miss Cousins
KS1 Teaching Assistant, Mid-day Assistant & Cleaner
Hi, my name is Miss Cousins. I started working at Pear Tree Mead in 1998. I work as a Learning Support Assistant, Mid-day Assistant and Cleaner. I enjoy all three of my jobs as I get to work with lots of different staff, as part of our fantastic team.
Mrs Wagstaff
Cleaner