Our Team

John Abbott

I was Principal of Richard Huish College from January 2013 to August 2020, and have worked at Huish since 2003 having previously been Assistant Principal and Faculty Director at the College, with responsibility for curriculum and quality. I have worked in Further Education for over 26 years and I am passionate about the impact it can have on everybody’s lives, but particularly young people.

Emma Fielding

I am Principal at RHC and began my career in education as an Educational Researcher at the University of Cambridge before going on to train as a History and Sociology teacher. I have since worked in the Post-16 educational sector for 18 years.

Becky Flower

I studied at Royal Holloway University and graduated in Sociology and Social Policy. Appointed in 1998, after working in children’s social care, I started as a teacher of Health and Social Care and then became Course Manager of Sociology from 2001 -2010. I was then appointed Assistant Principal in 2013 and Vice Principal in September 2020.

Saffron Lee

After completing my Masters in Photography at University of Westminster, I trained to be a teacher of Art and Design in Brighton. I had 18 years’ experience of managing outstanding A Level and BTEC courses within the Visual Arts before becoming an Assistant Principal in 2017 for our School of Business and Creative Industries. I begun my current role in 2021.  

Steve Chattell

I have worked in or around Human Resources for over 21 years, in a variety of sectors and most recently in education for the last 14 years. Over that time I’ve enjoyed working closely with curriculum teams to ensure there is a direct link between the HR function and the quality of education at the college.

Paul Lonsdale

I am a Chartered Management Accountant (CIMA) and have been leading Finances for Richard Huish Trust since June 2016.

Joe Bennett

I graduated from Cardiff University in 2001 before completing a PGCE in History and teaching in Secondary schools. I joined Richard Huish College as a History teacher in 2008 and in 2010, was acting Course Manager for History before becoming a Curriculum Area Manager the following year. In 2013, I was appointed Assistant Principal for English, Mathematics and Science and in 2021 was appointed the Assistant Principal for Business and Creative Industries.

Laurie Morgan

I joined the college in 2018 and have been teaching in schools and colleges for 10 years. Prior to teaching and after my engineering degree, I worked as an editor in the animation industry. I was appointed Assistant Principal for English, Science and Mathematics in 2021.

Martin Wren

I graduated from Brunel University in 2002 with a degree in Physical Education and Geography. Prior to joining Huish I have taught Physical Education in a diverse range of secondary environments in both the UK and Europe, specialising in curriculum development and innovation. After a successful role as Quality Nominee for the college I accepted the position of Assistant Principal in June 2020, leading the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. Alongside this role I also champion and manage the College’s vocational provision.

Richard Anderson

I joined in April 2015 and I ensure that the IT service to staff, students and the Richard Huish Trust runs efficiently with minimal network/service downtime. I also oversee the maintenance and improvement of the Huish estate.

Matt Nolan

My role at Richard Huish College is to ensure that students are supported to achieve their academic potential during their time at Huish. I manage a number of areas including Student Finance, Mental Health, Sport and our Enrichment programme as well as acting as the Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Sarah Hughes

 I oversee the collection, analysis and reporting of student data for funding, planning and quality assurance purposes and the College’s examination and assessment provision. I have worked in Education for over 16 years, the last 6 years at Richard Huish College. I am also the College’s Data Protection Officer.

Ben Baker

I manage the Estates Team at Huish. Together we help maintain and enhance the facilities at Huish and ensure the safety of all on site.

Jenny Chase

I work with the Finance Team to ensure resources are effectively and efficiently managed to enable the College to continue to meet its financial aims. We are a small, cheerful team always happy to answer any queries you may have.

Alison Smith

I am the Payroll Manager for the College.

Richard Jones

I am responsible for the Management of the Learning Centre and the Careers & Progression Team. To find out more about the services offered by the Careers and Progression team please visit the Student Information section of our website.

Abbi Skelly

My role at College is to support all students with their studies, perhaps alongside a medical condition or learning difficulty, helping to ensure that all necessary considerations are in place to enable them to achieve their very best and enjoy their time at College. I also complete assessments for exam arrangements and my specialism is in dyslexia.

Jacqui Lifton

My role at College is to support all students with their studies, perhaps alongside a medical condition or learning difficulty, helping to ensure that all necessary considerations are in place to enable them to achieve their very best and enjoy their time at College.

Steve Chattell

I have worked in or around Human Resources for over 21 years, in a variety of sectors and most recently in education for the last 14 years. Over that time I’ve enjoyed working closely with curriculum teams to ensure there is a direct link between the HR function and the quality of education at the college.

Becky Flower

I studied at Royal Holloway University and graduated in Sociology and Social Policy. Appointed in 1998, after working in children’s social care, I started as a teacher of Health and Social Care and then became Course Manager of Sociology from 2001 -2010. I was then appointed Assistant Principal in 2013 and Vice Principal in September 2020.

Maria Smith

I will be your first point of contact if you are applying to Huish from outside the UK or for boarding. I am also able to provide support throughout your time here.

Kerry Starmer

I am the Boarding House Manager at Oak House, our boarding facility, where my role is to ensure all students feel safe and have an experience as much like home as possible.

Susan Draycott

I am the House Parent at Oak House, our boarding facility. My role is to support and encourage students to be responsible and independent in their living environment.

Becky Flower

I studied at Royal Holloway University and graduated in Sociology and Social Policy. Appointed in 1998, after working in children’s social care, I started as a teacher of Health and Social Care and then became Course Manager of Sociology from 2001 -2010. I was then appointed Assistant Principal in 2013 and Vice Principal in September 2020.

Charlotte Sargent

My role is to offer fair and honest advice and guidance to all students looking at Huish as a potential post 16 option. I attend different school events to help students make an informed decision about where to study. I organise Experience Days for students to come and sample different subjects and conduct campus tours for prospective students and their parents. I will help you with the application process through to enrolment at Richard Huish College. 

Catherine Wilson

In addition to my Receptionist role at Huish I assist with the processing of applications to the College and support students along their journey to join Huish.

Joanne Mellor

I have worked at the College for 16 years within the Apprenticeship team. I am responsible for all recruitment of learners to Apprenticeships, ensuring that they receive the best possible advice and guidance. I also work with employers to help identify current and future workforce skills gaps and business needs.

Joanne Richards

I have been working in the Health and Social care sector for over 27 years and have been an assessor and internal quality assurance for over 22 years. I support learners through their adult skills learning journey, through workplace learning and professional development.

Martin Green

I am the Course Manager for AAT and ACCA Apprentice and Non-Apprentice courses. After a 26 year career in Audit, Governance and Consultancy, I moved into Accountancy teaching in 2011, joining Richard Huish College in 2015.

Jo Quick

I am the Student Finance Officer for Richard Huish College and I offer support to students regarding finance, transport, bursaries and loans and exam arrangements.

Becky Flower

I studied at Royal Holloway University and graduated in Sociology and Social Policy. Appointed in 1998, after working in children’s social care, I started as a teacher of Health and Social Care and then became Course Manager of Sociology from 2001 -2010. I was then appointed Assistant Principal in 2013 and Vice Principal in September 2020.

Leanna Turner

Having worked in Employability for over 11 years previously I was proud to become a Vocational Senior Progress Tutor for Richard Huish College in September 2020. 

Kim Pritchard

I am an experienced teacher and tutor with a background in teaching Dance, as well as Sport, Drama and Theatre and Performing Arts Enrichment. I enjoy tutoring and am particularly interested in the overall health and wellbeing of students and in supporting them to grow in confidence and character as they make progress during their time here.

Claire Hill

Sharon Copeland

I am a creative and empathetic person with 24 years experience in the teaching/advisory sector. I am passionate about enthusing young adults to achieve their full potential, whilst helping them to maintain positive mental health. I have a diverse work history which included recent employment as a Wellbeing Advisor within the NHS Trust and use my enthusiasm, drive and a desire to inspire via coaching methods.

Kate Holmes

I monitor the progression and general wellbeing of my students and offer support and guidance.

Joe Hayden

I have worked in education for the last nine or so years. Initially I was a Teaching Assistant, which inspired me to study for a PGCE in Chemistry and Integrated Science at Bristol University. My first appointment was as a secondary Science Teacher and more recently I was the Head of Science. I am currently a Progress Tutor here at Huish and I am thoroughly enjoying it. Prior to teaching I studied for a degree in Geology and then a Master’s degree in Climate Science. I am very passionate about teaching and learning, particularly when approached in a holistic manner.

Gemma Lawrence

Carys Gyatt

I studied at the University of Bristol and graduated in Childhood Studies. Prior to Huish I worked as an Assistant Houseparent in a boarding school. As a Progress Tutor I support students with progression and wellbeing.

Ieuan Davies

I studied Sport Performance at the University of Bath in 2014 and completed my PGCE with QTS in Secondary Physical Education at the University of Gloucestershire in 2017. I have worked in education for 7 years teaching Physical Education and I have been Hockey Coaching for over 10 years at county, regional and national level for England Hockey. I lead the Women’s Hockey Programme at Huish.

Marion Nicol

I am passionate about supporting young adults to achieve their full potential, though mentoring and coaching. I have taught and worked with a wide range of people, and I am enthusiastic to celebrate diversity and inclusiveness. I have worked in education for over 25 years, teaching, managing and in quality improvement.

Justin Knox

Millie Clark

My role as a Progress Tutor involves monitoring the progression and wellbeing of my students. I also support second year Psychology students with their studies during weekly 1:1 sessions. Prior to working here, I studied Psychology at the University of Plymouth and graduated in 2020.

Lizz Hoskins

Mike Ryan

My role is to oversee the day to day tasks relating to sporting fixtures and training sessions and develop sport at Huish. I also coach the Women’s Rugby team and a secondary part of my role is to direct the Sport Department’s community work.

Donna Pester

I work as part of the Careers and Progression Team where I deliver impartial guidance to students, predominately covering workplace options such as Apprenticeships and work experience. I also contribute to the Learning Centre Team.

Gary Carter

Victoria Bunn

I studied my Bachelor of Education at the University of Plymouth, and have worked in education ever since. My experiences have been varied; I began my career as a Primary School teacher and since then worked on education research projects and taught English and Maths to adult learners. In my role as a Progress Tutor and Study Skills Support I offer guidance in health and wellbeing, monitoring and reflection, progression and study skills. I am passionate about motivating and supporting students to see the purpose and value in their education, to maximise the opportunities available to them, and finally, to have high aspirations and achieve their full potential… and beyond!

Becky Flower

I studied at Royal Holloway University and graduated in Sociology and Social Policy. Appointed in 1998, after working in children’s social care, I started as a teacher of Health and Social Care and then became Course Manager of Sociology from 2001 -2010. I was then appointed Assistant Principal in 2013 and Vice Principal in September 2020.

Matt Nolan

My role at Richard Huish College is to ensure that students are supported to achieve their academic potential during their time at Huish. I manage a number of areas including Student Finance, Mental Health, Sport and our Enrichment programme as well as acting as the Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Abbi Skelly

My role at College is to support all students with their studies, perhaps alongside a medical condition or learning difficulty, helping to ensure that all necessary considerations are in place to enable them to achieve their very best and enjoy their time at College. I also complete assessments for exam arrangements and my specialism is in dyslexia.

Jacqui Lifton

My role at College is to support all students with their studies, perhaps alongside a medical condition or learning difficulty, helping to ensure that all necessary considerations are in place to enable them to achieve their very best and enjoy their time at College.

Emily Daly

My role is to support students with their mental health and wellbeing.

Jo Quick

I am the Student Finance Officer for Richard Huish College and I offer support to students regarding finance, transport, bursaries and loans and exam arrangements.

Elisabeth Sandy

Richard Jones

I am responsible for the Management of the Learning Centre and the Careers & Progression Team. To find out more about the services offered by the Careers and Progression team please visit the Student Information section of our website.

Tarsha Coleman

My role is to support students across a range of areas, including careers and progression and study skills as well as leading the Student Union. I provide a voice for students, representing cross-college matters. I also contribute to the Learning Centre Team. 

Donna Pester

I work as part of the Careers and Progression Team where I deliver impartial guidance to students, predominately covering workplace options such as Apprenticeships and work experience. I also contribute to the Learning Centre Team.

Victoria Bunn

I studied my Bachelor of Education at the University of Plymouth, and have worked in education ever since. My experiences have been varied; I began my career as a Primary School teacher and since then worked on education research projects and taught English and Maths to adult learners. In my role as a Progress Tutor and Study Skills Support I offer guidance in health and wellbeing, monitoring and reflection, progression and study skills. I am passionate about motivating and supporting students to see the purpose and value in their education, to maximise the opportunities available to them, and finally, to have high aspirations and achieve their full potential… and beyond!

Martin Wren

I graduated from Brunel University in 2002 with a degree in Physical Education and Geography. Prior to joining Huish I have taught Physical Education in a diverse range of secondary environments in both the UK and Europe, specialising in curriculum development and innovation. After a successful role as Quality Nominee for the college I accepted the position of Assistant Principal in June 2020, leading the School of Humanities and Social Sciences. Alongside this role I also champion and manage the College’s vocational provision.

Samantha Desmond

I teach and manage a small but mighty community of students who, like me, are interested in all things Ancient! My particular focuses are the Roman poet Virgil, Athenian Democracy and Classical & Hellenistic Art. I lead 2 trips including an annual residential to Greece and am involved in spreading the word that Classical Civilisation is an option for everyone.

Sara Goddard

Anna Turnbull

I have been teaching at Huish since 2012 and enjoy using my experience of working in the Health and Social Care sector to support students. I was previously a registered Nurse, specialising in Learning Disabilities Support.

David Irving

I have taught History at Richard Huish College since 2010. I studied History at Cardiff University and have a particular interest in Russian and British history.

Mike Twyble

Having practised as a Solicitor, I have spent the last 28 years as a full time Law teacher working in several successful colleges.

Martin Sinclair

I have been Course manager of Philosophy, Religion & Ethics for the last 13 years. I pride myself on the interesting learning experience guaranteed on my course. My particular interests are Buddhism, religious language and Wittgenstein.

Adam Fox

It is my pleasure to manage the Physical Education course. Having joined in 2021, I bring 16 years of previous leadership and management experience within PE and education. My main objectives are to make the course as enjoyable and interesting as possible for students, whilst helping them realise their potential and hopefully consider furthering their education within the realms of PE and Sport when they leave Huish. You might see me outside of college rock climbing in Somerset, Devon & Cornwall, or at my family caravan in Cornwall over the summer holidays – so say ‘hi’ if you see me at the beach or in the water surfing!

Ceri Knott

I have been Course Manager of Politics at Huish since September 2017. I relocated to the West Country from the Midlands where I had taught History and Politics at Rugby High, a girls’ grammar school, since 2003. At Huish I also oversee the student led Politics and Debating society.

Amy Lees

I have loved Psychology since I was first introduced to the subject during my A Level studies. I am particularly interested in applied topics and the contribution of Psychology to our society. I am the Psychology Course Manager, my role is to co-ordinate the curriculum and manage your progress on the course alongside your subject teachers.

Amanda Hawkins

I manage a team of Public Services staff and as a member of the local Mountain Rescue Team I am able to support students through both the academic and practical aspects of the course.

Hannah Curtis

I have taught Sociology and Psychology in a variety of Further Education and Sixth Form Colleges since graduating from Cardiff University. I am responsible for directing the Sociology curriculum and ensuring that students are supported in their academic and personal development.

Raquel Munoz

Hola! I am Raquel, the Spanish teacher at Richard Huish College where I have been teaching since September of 2003. I am very passionate about my students learning my native language and new languages. What I love the most about being a teacher is seeing my students continue through life after college with the ability to communicate fluently in a different language.

Matt Morgan

My role is to ensure we offer a course of fantastic quality and provide great experiences for our students. If not with my family, you will find me coaching for Quantock Quickriders Cycling Club or fighting for points at the Welsh Classic Motocross Championship!

Joe Bennett

I graduated from Cardiff University in 2001 before completing a PGCE in History and teaching in Secondary schools. I joined Richard Huish College as a History teacher in 2008 and in 2010, was acting Course Manager for History before becoming a Curriculum Area Manager the following year. In 2013, I was appointed Assistant Principal for English, Mathematics and Science and in 2021 was appointed the Assistant Principal for Business and Creative Industries.

Richard Aydon

The key element to my role is in leading teaching and learning and curriculum development for Art and Photography. My role also involves monitoring and supporting the progress of students. I have worked in a variety of educational settings and have previously lead Art departments and faculties. Most recently I was Head of the Creative Faculty at a girls’ school in Jersey (Channel Islands). As well as being a practising Artist I am a keen cyclist and surfer.

Jenny Perks

I enjoy teaching Business and in particular how the theory learnt in lessons affects us as consumers and how it relates to news and current affairs. I have worked in a variety of roles including in secondary schools and as a Manager within a Social Enterprise.

Sharon Williams

I am the Course Manager of Vocational Business. Within the department I manage the Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business, Level 3 Extended Certificate in Business and Level 2 Business Certificate. I have 16 years teaching experience plus experiences of setting up and running my own business. I thoroughly enjoy teaching such a broad subject area, in particular I enjoy witnessing students developing both practical and academic skills through completing a vocational course.

Ralph Ellis

I have been Course Manager for Computer Science since September 2016 and have successfully overseen the transition to the new linear specification. My background is in Mathematics, although I have previously spent 10 years as an educational consultant for a technology company.

Andy Harding

I have taught Computing and IT for 30 years including mostly FE and Sixth form. I love coding as well as the creative side such as graphics and animation and games design.

Gemma Thompson

I have been teaching Drama for 12 years, I love non-naturalistic drama and creating my own devised work. I enjoy seeing students grow and develop as actors/theatre makers and use these skills in all aspects of their life.

Elizabeth Voice

I joined Richard Huish College 27 years ago on my teaching practise and enjoyed it so much that I have been here ever since. Economics is a subject that is constantly changing and I really enjoy helping students to understand the application of the theory to what is happening in the news.

Tjark Schoenfeld

My specialism lies in Illustration and Fine Art Printmaking and I am proud to be working together with a dedicated and very experienced team of teachers and technicians in delivering the Visual Arts curriculum here at Huish, which is set within outstanding facilities.

Dave Bryant

I worked in TV and Radio before moving into teaching so my industry experience is great for my role as Course Manager for Vocational Media.

Kathryn Foyle

As a cellist, pianist and singer, I teach A Level Music and run the wide ranging Music Enrichment programme at the College.

Andy Wild

I manage all of the Vocational Music courses. Duties include curriculum planning, event planning and anything musical.

Laurie Morgan

I joined the college in 2018 and have been teaching in schools and colleges for 10 years. Prior to teaching and after my engineering degree, I worked as an editor in the animation industry. I was appointed Assistant Principal for English, Science and Mathematics in 2021.

Sarah Marshall

I graduated in Biology from Nottingham University and have taught A level Biology for over 21 years – and still love it! I have a Masters in Education from Bristol University and am a Teaching and Learning Lead for the College.

Alison Owen

I joined the College in 2003. Previously I taught at Bristol and Kingston University and am particularly interested in the Biomedical Sciences.

Joanna Clare

I joined the College in 2017 having taught Chemistry for 10 years at both secondary and FE level. Prior to teaching, I completed a PhD in Organic Chemistry at Bristol University.

Marcus Barrett

I am the Course Manager for English Language. I initially read Law, then Mediaeval Culture before entering teaching. As a qualified Barrister, I am fascinated by the forensic detail of English Language and delight in sharing the subject at A Level.

Jill Burton

I joined the College nearly 22 years ago and still love everything about teaching here. It is a privilege to see students develop their love of literature and expand their literary horizons. Apart from teaching Literature, I also dabble in English Language A level and GCSE, and in any spare time I enjoy theatre, the arts , all sorts of music and I sing with a chamber choir. I am also very privileged to volunteer at St Margaret’s Hospice on my day off.

Richard Palmer

I joined the College 16 years ago and have been a Course Manager for 12 years. I really enjoy teaching this subject as it is constantly changing and is incredibly important. I love teaching students with a passion for the environment. I addition to this I help run the Earth Science Society. I also organise the biennial Morocco Surf Trip.

Nikki Lewis

I have wanted to teach Geography since I was 5 years old; to say I love the subject would be an understatement! I hope to pass on my love of the subject to you.

Tim Dickinson

I climb rocks, study rocks, collect far too many rocks and feel compelled to communicate exactly why they are the most interesting thing there is. Rocks rock!

Jon Middle

I have taught at the College for nearly 17 years, and am part of a highly qualified team of Maths teachers.

Barrie Hall

I am a Chartered Physicist and Member of the Institute of Physics and have examined for several exam boards. I joined the College in 2013 and now lead the highly experienced Physics team. I graduated from Durham University and completed a PGCE at the UCL Institute of Education. Prior to working in education I had a career in the media.