Parents
Progress Teams
Progress Leaders promote progress in learning for students in their year groups.
This is done by removing barriers to progress such as targeted academic intervention, behaviour, promoting positive wellbeing, attendance and many other things.
Progress Leaders are responsible for creating an ethos for their year group, something that is positive and supportive to enable all students to be the best that they can be.
They oversee assemblies, the tutor time programme, analyse progress data for all students in their year group and implement actions and interventions accordingly.
Your child's Progress Leader will be central to the educational journey they experience at Kingsmead.
Progress Team:
Mrs. T Milner - Progress Leader Year 7
Why I became a Progress Leader
Being a Progress Leader is one of the most challenging and rewarding roles in school. I am a very caring person and am passionate about seeing students succeed and thrive to the best of their capabilities. I am committed to fostering a culture of academic achievement and personal development, building resilience and adaptability.
What I enjoy most about the role
Getting to know students and their families is a huge privilege and I get a great sense of pride when I see them grow and develop into responsible young adults. I love to celebrate students’ successes both inside and outside of school. Having the privilege of following a year group for the last 5 years, then see them succeed with outstanding GCSE results left me with a huge feeling of pride. I am now so lucky to be able to start again with Year 7, helping to navigate them through challenges and ensuring we have a positive learning environment. It is so rewarding to see their enthusiasm, curiosity, and resilience blossom, knowing that I play a role in shaping their early experiences and setting a foundation for their future successes. I can’t wait to see where our journey will take us.
What I enjoy doing at the weekend
I love spending time with my family and have my first grandchild due on the 3rd January. I also enjoy walking my dog Darcy and going out for dinner with my husband.
My favourite book
Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone by J.K. Rowling.
Email: t.milner@kingsmeadschool.net
Miss R Hall - Assistant Progress Leader Year 7
Why I became a Assistant Progress Leader
I became an Assistant Progress Leader because I wanted to support the progress, development and aspirations of a year group throughout their time at Kingsmead, to give them the best possible chance of success in their future.
What I enjoy most about my role
The thing I enjoy most about being an Assistant Progress Leader is getting to know the year group and developing positive relationships with them. I enjoy celebrating their successes, as well as supporting them to overcome barriers to their learning and challenges they face throughout their time at Kingsmead. Seeing them grow as individuals, encouraging them to be the best version of themselves, and raising their aspirations for the future are all extremely rewarding parts of the job.
What I enjoy doing at the weekend
At the weekend I enjoy relaxing, taking long walks with my dog, and spending quality time with family and friends.
My favourite book
My favourite genre is crime thrillers, however the most inspiring book I have read is Ant Middleton: First Man In.
Email: r.hall@kingsmeadschool.net
Mrs J Thomson - Progress Leader Year 8
Why I became a Progress Leader
The world has changed a lot since I started secondary school all the way back in 1991! Young people face many challenges both academically and socially. It is my intention to be the adult in their school life that helps and support them problem solve, remove barriers to learning and preparing them for the big wide world that awaits them. If even just one of them say “Remember Mrs Thomson? She helped me a lot.” I know I have done my job and I have done it well.
What I enjoy most about the role
There are so many enjoyable things about being a Progress Leader and I often ask myself this question and I find it hard to find one.
I thoroughly enjoy working with families and getting to know them as well as I know their children. I thrive on the fact that I am a pinnacle part of shaping the adults they will become when they leave school and go on to be the best they can be.
What I enjoy doing at the weekend
I have a teenager myself, so my weekends are usually catching up with him. I am lucky to come from a large close knit family, so visits to my siblings and parents are always a priority.
My favourite book
PS I love you is my most favourite book, I have read it countless times!
Email: j.thomson@kingsmeadschool.net
Mrs H Seymour - Assistant Progress Leader Year 8
Why I became an Assistant Progress Leader
I have always enjoyed being a Form Tutor and accompanying a group of students on their journey through school life. I love to be there on results day sharing in the success. Now I get to do it alongside a whole year group!
What I enjoy most about the role
Working as part of the fabulous Year 8 team and getting to see students I teach outside of the classroom whether that is performing music or playing sports and really getting to know them. I especially like working with my High Flyers and am really excited about what the future will bring for them.
What I enjoy doing at the weekend
I enjoy watching my own children playing rugby for Cannock and Lichfield, riding my bike on Cannock Chase and watching a film with my kitten curled up on my lap!
My favourite book
To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee. I am thrilled that I am able to teach it to Y13 as part of the Civil Rights A level History course. I love it so much that my kitten is named Atticus Finch after a character in it.
Email: h.seymour@kingsmeadschool.net
Mr J Taylor - Progress Leader Year 9
Why I became a Progress Leader
Having experienced my Uncle working within this role when I was a student and the rewards and enjoyment he got out of it, a pastoral role was something I wanted to pursue. Having started out as a TA, I gained a passion for supporting students in their academic and personal development and wanted to be able to have that chance at making a positive impact on their lives. Developing into a Progress Leader gave me an opportunity to contribute further. Having the chance to nurture and support a student through their journey from Year 7 to 11 gives me immense reward.
What I enjoy most about the role
One of the most rewarding aspects for me is being able to give direct support to nurture and shape a student’s pathway. I value being able to have that impact on academic progress and personal challenges within school that helps students to overcome obstacles and flourish into young adults.
What I enjoy doing at the weekend
If I’m not at Anfield watching Liverpool, I am playing football for my Saturday team Hawkins. I also enjoy playing and watching Darts.
My favourite book
Bellies and Bullseyes by Sid Waddell.
Email: j.taylor@kingsmeadschool.net
Miss K Ghent - Assistant Progress Leader Year 9
Why I became an Assistant Progress Leader
One of the main reasons why I became an APL is to help foster a sense of community amongst my year group - a community where students feel connected, valued and motivated to achieve their best. Through my experience as a former student at Kingsmead, one thing that allowed me to feel inspired and driven to be the best I could be was having a leading figure who was dedicated to championing my progress both academically and personally. I want to be that figure for my year group.
What I enjoy most about the role
Supporting a year group through their secondary school experience from Year 7 to Year 11 offers the opportunity to see such wonderful personal and academic development. Knowing that I have been able to play a role in shaping students’ educational journeys, helping them navigate academic hurdles and their own personal growth is why I love this role. It is so rewarding seeing the outcomes of their hard work and the exciting opportunities they have created for themselves beyond Year 11 due to their dedication. Best of all, we do this all together... as a team!
What I enjoy doing at the weekend
At the weekend you can often find me at Villa Park. If I can't be found there, it is likely that I'm spending quality time with my family and friends, doing a little retail therapy, playing netball or, of course, in the theatre watching musicals and contemporary plays.
My favourite book
The Great Gatsby by F Scott Fitzgerald.
Email: k.ghent@kingsmeadschool.net
Miss C Hinton - Progress Leader Year 10
Why I became a Progress Leader
During my third year at University, I completed a placement year where I worked as a mental health mentor in a secondary school. I really enjoyed this role and looking ahead after graduation, I knew I wanted to work in a secondary school in a similar sort of role. I became a Progress Leader as I am very passionate about helping young people reach their full potential; I feel this job enables me to do this in so many different ways.
What I enjoy most about the role
I enjoy the variety of the job role as no two days are the same. I find this job uses a lot of skills and I am constantly learning new things, which I love. I also really enjoy working daily with my fantastic year group and enjoy seeing how far they have come already, and thinking about how we can get even better. The relationships and impact had on the students is also something really rewarding and another thing I really enjoy about my job. I hope that in a small way I can help or have an impact on each of my students in my year.
What I enjoy doing at the weekend
It is currently the hockey season from September until March, so I spend my Saturdays doing this. I also enjoy going to the gym at the weekend as I find this helps me to relax. I like to spend time with my friends, go shopping and going out for food.
My favourite book
My favourite book is either "Queenie" by Candice Carty-Williams or "Cleopatra and Frankenstein" by Coco Mellors.
Email: c.hinton@kingsmeadschool.net
Mr J James - Assistant Progress Leader Year 10
Why I became an Assistant Progress Leader
There are many reasons I am an Assistant Progress Leader and why I have become a teacher, but the main one is how school was where I felt at my safest when I was a child. There are many barriers to life, and they are only barriers if you let them to be. Start seeing them as tests. I want to support, motivate, and inspire the next generation of aspiring young adults, to help students understand how they can always overcome the barriers to improving their development. I was inspired by my Head of Year from my time at school: no matter what time it was, what lesson he was teaching, or what the problem was, he would always make time for me, and that changed my perception.
What I enjoy most about the role
I really enjoy my role in the school as there is no day that is ever the same, and there are always going to be challenges, but be persistent and it will lead to success. Also, I enjoy the rewarding aspect of seeing the students achieve something they thought they were unable to before.
What I enjoy doing on the weekend
I enjoy many things at the weekend, playing sport, spending time with family and friends, going for walks with my dog, and taking day trips.
My favourite book
My two favourite books are ‘The Sports Gene’ by David Epstein, and ‘Good Vibes, Good Life’ by Vex King.
Email: j.james@kingsmeadschool.net
Mrs G Taylor - Progress Leader Year 11
Why I became a Progress Leader
Being a Progress Leader is one of the most complex and rewarding roles in a school. My decision to take on this role was fuelled by a desire to create an atmosphere that not only nurtures academic growth but also instils resilience and a genuine passion for learning too. As the Mum of an 18-year-old who has successfully navigated the GCSE, A-Level and now University journeys, I am keen to wholly support my year group on their own academic and personal development journey through Kingsmead.
What I enjoy most about the role
Having worked closely with my year group since Year 9, I am very passionate about supporting them as they prepare to take their GCSE exams. I take great pride in sharing in and celebrating my students’ many successes and work hard to provide the best opportunities for them to reach their full potential. I am excited to watch them all develop into the best version of themselves as they move onto their next chapter.
What I enjoy doing on the weekend
I like to spend my weekends with my family and friends, whether that is meeting up for dinner or taking the dog for long walks over Cannock Chase.
My favourite book
The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe has long been a favourite of mine, as I love the magic and intrigue the book creates.
Email: g.taylor@kingsmeadschool.net
Mr A Nyari - Progress Leader Year 11
Why I became an Assistant Progress Leader
I became an Assistant Progress Leader driven by my passion for nurturing growth and fostering positive change in individuals. Witnessing the transformative journey of students and being a guiding force in their development compelled me to take on this role. It's immensely fulfilling to contribute to the progress of others, creating an environment where each person can realise their potential and achieve their goals.
What I enjoy most about the role
What I enjoy most about my role is the opportunity to facilitate meaningful connections with students and support their academic and personal development. The satisfaction of seeing individuals overcome challenges, gain confidence, and succeed is truly rewarding. Contributing to a positive and inclusive learning environment adds a sense of fulfilment, making each day in my role as an Assistant Progress Leader uniquely gratifying.
What I enjoy doing on the weekend
At the weekends, my focus shifts to spending quality time with family and friends, nurturing those connections. Balancing moments immersed in the pages of a good book and indulging in gaming provides a well-rounded approach to unwinding. This combination of social engagement and personal leisure contributes to a fulfilling weekend, allowing me to recharge and enjoy diverse interests while maintaining a sense of connection with those around me.
My favourite book
My favourite book, "Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire," captivates me with its intricate plot and magical world. Rowling's storytelling prowess unfolds seamlessly, weaving mystery and excitement. The characters' growth and the Triwizard Tournament's challenges add depth, exploring themes of friendship and courage, the book resonates. Revisiting Hogwarts through its pages is an enchanting escape, making it a timeless and cherished literary journey.
Email: a.nyari@kingsmeadschool.net