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Providing Alternative Education Beyond The Classroom
Simon
Director
Hi, I’m Simon,
I’m proud to be part of the team here at 4Life Education. My career started many moons ago with 8 years of service in the UK Armed Forces, where I gained valuable life skills such as discipline, resilience, leadership, and the ability to work under pressure—skills that continue to shape how I support and guide young people today.
During my time in the military, I had the privilege of playing rugby for the Royal Air Force, which taught me the value of commitment, teamwork, and pushing personal boundaries. I also became a qualified personal trainer, working with both adults and adolescents to improve their physical and mental wellbeing—something I’m still passionate about today.
Since leaving the forces, I’ve worked across a range of support, teaching, and leadership roles in alternative education, helping young people who may have struggled in mainstream settings to re-engage, grow in confidence, and discover their potential. I believe in second chances, in meeting learners where they are, and in creating an environment where they feel safe, understood, and empowered.
At 4Life Education, I bring all of these experiences together to support our pupils not just academically, but personally. I’m committed to helping them build life skills, resilience, and a sense of purpose—because every young person deserves the chance to thrive.
Charlotte
Director
Charlotte has dedicated her career to transforming the educational landscape since 2011, specializing in SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) and SEMH (Social, Emotional, and Mental Health) settings. With a wealth of experience in both teaching and taking on key roles within senior leadership teams, her professional journey is marked by her passion for making a meaningful difference. In 2021 she completed her National Professional Qualification in Senior Leadership with a focus on Cognition and Learning.
Most recently, Charlotte served as a headteacher in an Alternative Provision setting, where she worked tirelessly to support young people facing barriers to learning. Her commitment to helping students overcome challenges—whether social, emotional, or academic—is at the core of her mission to create opportunities and unlock potential for every learner under her care. Her profound dedication leaves an indelible impact on the lives of the students and communities she serves.
Katie
Teacher- 4Life Explorers
Hi, I'm Katie
I’ve worked in education for 14 years. I started my career after completing a degree in Child Psychology, where I developed a particular interest in child development and attachment. I then went on to train as a qualified teacher and have worked in infant and primary schools ever since.
I really enjoy building positive relationships with children and helping them to feel confident, believe in themselves and reach their full potential. I enjoy getting to know each child as an individual and finding ways to personalise their learning around their needs, interests and strengths. I’m a big believer in learning through play and love finding ways to make learning fun and engaging. In my previous setting, I led our outdoor play and learning, which achieved a Platinum Award. I really enjoy giving children the freedom to explore, be curious and take the lead in their learning.
For me, one of the best parts of the job is seeing children overcome challenges and start to recognise what they are capable of. Creating a warm, inclusive environment where children feel safe, supported and able to be themselves is really important to me.
Outside of work, I’m kept pretty busy with my family and my two girls. I enjoy trips to the theatre, especially musicals, and I’m a big fan of a good theme park and a few decent rides! When I’m not out and about, I’m just as happy snuggling up with a good book.
Leanne
Teacher
Hi, I'm Leanne,
I have worked in education for over eight years, starting my career as a Teaching Assistant before training to become a qualified teacher. I have always been passionate about supporting pupils and helping them grow in confidence, believe in themselves and achieve their full potential.
I love building positive relationships with young people and creating a calm, supportive environment where they feel safe, valued and encouraged to succeed. I'm excited to join the team at 4Life Education as a Tutor, where I can continue supporting pupils to overcome challenges and recognise what they are capable of. Seeing young people grow in confidence and celebrate their achievements is the most rewarding part of my job.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and our three dogs. We love going on walks, exploring new places in our caravan and making the most of outdoor adventures together. Reading is one of my biggest hobbies, and I always have a good book on the go!
Lucie
Engagement and Learning Mentor
Lucie trained in musical theatre at Italia Conti in London and spent 10 years performing professionally. She then returned to Derbyshire to run a successful babyballet franchise for 10 years before setting up her own youth production company. Lucie later began working in a special school, which sparked her passion for inclusive and alternative education.
She now brings creativity, energy and experience to 4Life Education, supporting young people to build confidence and flourish.
She currently runs Poppet and Pearl Production Academy in the evening and weekends!
Bonnie-Rae
Engagement and Intervention Lead
Hi, I’m Bonnie-Rae, the Engagement and Intervention Lead. I have six years’ experience in education and am a qualified teacher, with experience across KS3–KS5 in a range of settings. I hold a First-Class BA (Hons) degree in Dance and have a real passion for the Performing Arts and creative approaches to learning.
I began my career as a Dance Teacher in mainstream education before moving into engagement and support work within alternative provision. I have worked closely with SEND students across Nottinghamshire, as well as supporting parents and carers of young people with ADHD, ASD and other neurodivergences. I find genuine fulfilment in working with young people and feel that alternative provision is where my skills, personality and experience are best suited.
Outside of work, I enjoy all things creative, from cooking and arts and crafts to music, hiking and gardening. I love keeping busy, trying new things and taking on a challenge. I also have two cats, Morpheus and Echo, who are very much part of the family!
Riley
Engagement Mentor
Riley supports our students with their engagement and learning in provision. He has a nurturing and exceptionally kind nature and is interested in computing, media and fishing!
