Awen means inspiration in both Cornish and Welsh and it holds a personal connection for me.

Having 30 years of experience of being a class teacher, and a leader of a special school, I am currently working as an Educational Consultant and School Improvement Partner. During my 11 years as a Headteacher I led my school through curriculum reviews and implementation, expansion of planned places, capital projects including a new College, staffing reviews and recruitment, 3 Ofsted inspections, delivery of Outreach, and developed bespoke provision to meet individual learner needs. I have successfully completed the Crossfields Institute accredited School Improvement Partner training, and the National Professional Qualification of Executive Leadership.

In my consultancy role I am working with new and experienced school leaders in the SEND sector, and have recently become a Governor of a special school, taking on responsibility for Behaviour and Attitudes. I am a Non Executive Director of South Glos Parent Carers. I am happy to cover all aspects of School Improvement work including Safeguarding reviews, curriculum reviews, Headteacher recruitment, Headteacher performance management, coaching and leadership development, and working with Governors.

I am particularly keen to support settings with exploring the key question, “what is it like to attend this school?” Using my experience in communicating with learners with SEND, and a range of strategies that I have developed, I am enthusiastic about working with school leaders to understand the perspective of learners. This includes safety and wellbeing, engagement and interaction, opportunities and equity, communication, and relationships.

Please contact me if you are interested in what I do, or in working with me.

Lisa Parker, Awen Education.