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 25 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 17 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.

Sarah Fox

After studying History at Oxford University, I completed my teacher training through Teach First – a leadership development programme which places graduates in schools in deprived areas across the country. Having taught for over a decade in a variety of state education settings, I became Head of a Sixth Form Academy 2016-2019. I successfully completed my Masters in Education (Distinction) in 2016, as well as my National Professional Qualification in Senior Leadership in 2018. On the strength of these, I was offered a full scholarship to study a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) through the University of Nottingham, before taking up my position here as Vice Principal of Curriculum and Quality in September 2020. Above all, I continue to enjoy the opportunity to contribute to the educational experience and development of young people and am committed to enabling them to achieve their full potential.

Steve Chattell

I have worked in or around Human Resources for over 20 years, in a variety of sectors and most recently in education for the last 13 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 VP Finance at 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 have responsibility for International students’ curriculum and academic progress.  

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 moving into my current role in 2017 where I am responsible for the quality of teaching, learning, assessment and pastoral needs of learners, in the School of Business and Creative Industries.

Martin Wren

David Watson

I have worked in FE & Adult Learning since 1996, starting my career as an Assessor/Tutor in Business (although I graduated in Building Surveying). Since 1996 I have held various Senior Management roles in private training providers and local authority owned organisations, leading a variety of corporate functions and curriculum. More recently I have worked in FE Colleges leading Apprenticeship and Employer based provisions. I am also a Director of the Dorset & Somerset Training Provider network (DSTPN), a voluntary role I have enjoyed for a number of years.

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.

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.

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.

Sarah Hughes

I am the Head of College Information Systems & Exams. 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 15 years, the last 5 years at Richard Huish College. I am also the College’s Data Protection Officer.

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.

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.

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.

Kate Dendle

I work within the Student Services Team and I provide support and guidance to students experiencing emotional or mental health difficulties.

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.

Emily Wishart

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.

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.

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.

Steve Chattell

I have worked in or around Human Resources for over 20 years, in a variety of sectors and most recently in education for the last 13 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.

Maria Smith

I will be your first point of contact during the International application and admission process to Huish. I am also able to provide support to International Students throughout their time here.

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.

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.

David Watson

I have worked in FE & Adult Learning since 1996, starting my career as an Assessor/Tutor in Business (although I graduated in Building Surveying). Since 1996 I have held various Senior Management roles in private training providers and local authority owned organisations, leading a variety of corporate functions and curriculum. More recently I have worked in FE Colleges leading Apprenticeship and Employer based provisions. I am also a Director of the Dorset & Somerset Training Provider network (DSTPN), a voluntary role I have enjoyed for a number of years.

Joanne Mellor

I have worked at the College for 15 years within the Apprenticeship team. I am currently the Recruitment Team Leader. 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.

Dave Roberts

I have been working in funded education for the last 18 years. I am able to advise employers how best to implement training to increase staff knowledge base and maintain retention of staff. Working closely with local businesses, large and small I have increased awareness of Apprenticeships and bespoke training in the local area.

Joanne Richards

I have been working in the Health and Social care sector for over 26 years and have been an assessor and internal quality assurance for over 21 years. As Programme Lead for Health & Social Care, I manage a team of assessors who support learners through their adult skills learning journey, through workplace learning and professional development to achieve their Apprenticeship in Health & Social Care.

Helen Kongialis

I am part of the Apprenticeship team and I manage the Business and Customer Service courses.

Joanne Patten

I have been working in the Education/Adult Learning sector for over 12 years and have had a range of roles including Tutor/Assessor/IQA. As Programme Lead for Teaching and Learning, I manage the Teaching Assistant, Early Years Educator and Learning Skills Teacher Apprenticeships and associated qualifications.

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.

Joshua Gearing

I have worked with Apprenticeships since 2012 and have worked through the changes from Key Skills to Functional Skills, as well as the various iterations of the Functional Skills offering. As Functional Skills Co-ordinator I now oversee the Functional Skills delivery for Huish Apprenticeships and continue to teach Functional Skills. I also assess Business Admin and Customer Service qualifications.

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 I am proud to be the Vocational Senior Progress Tutor for Richard Huish College. 

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 23 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.

Chloe Griffiths

I studied my A Levels here at Richard Huish College and subsequently went on to Cardiff University to study Law. Besides my passion for my subject specialism, I am enthusiastic about supporting, motivating and encouraging young people through their educational journey and helping to make their experience a positive one.

Kate Holmes

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

Charlotte Hagii

Before Huish I worked with young people in youth work all over the South West, working with NCS, BFI and ICS. I am pleased to be able to help nurture and encourage students at Richard Huish College with the experience I have gained.

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.

Jenni Caddy

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

Martin Wren

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.

Sandrine Bennett

I am a French native speaker and I have been living in the UK for most of my life. I teach the Year one and Year two for the linear AQA French Modern Foreign Language course. I also provide 20 minute conversation classes for the students on a one-to-one basis to improve their conversational and exam technique skills.

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.

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 27 years as a full time Law teacher working in several successful colleges.

Chloe Griffiths

I studied my A Levels here at Richard Huish College and subsequently went on to Cardiff University to study Law. Besides my passion for my subject specialism, I am enthusiastic about supporting, motivating and encouraging young people through their educational journey and helping to make their experience a positive one.

Wendy Constable

I co-ordinate and manage the A Level PE course. I have over 36 years teaching experience in both secondary schools and Sixth Form Colleges. I have marked for the OCR exam board for the last 21 years and have been asked to lecture at National conferences as well as write syllabuses for the practical component of PE.

Martin Sinclair

I have been Course manager of Philosophy, Religion & Ethics for the last 12 years. I pride myself on the interesting learning experience guaranteed on my course. My particular interests are Buddhism, religious language and Wittgenstein.

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. I have also examined for AQA for the past 6 years.

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 have responsibility for International students’ curriculum and academic progress.  

Laurie Morgan

I joined the college in 2018 and have been teaching in schools and colleges for 9 years. Prior to teaching and after my engineering degree, I worked as an editor in the animation industry.

Sarah Marshall

I graduated in Biology from Nottingham University and have taught A level Biology for over 20 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.

Jill Burton

I joined the College nearly 21 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 fifteen years ago and have been a Course Manager for 11 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 16 years, and am part of a highly qualified team of Maths teachers with well over 100 years of teaching A Level Maths between them.

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.

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 moving into my current role in 2017 where I am responsible for the quality of teaching, learning, assessment and pastoral needs of learners, in the School of 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 15 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 nearly 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 11 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 26 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.