At Ormiston Teacher Training, across our campuses, we have education experts who will support and teach you throughout your time at OTT.
WEST MIDLANDS TUTORS
Train with us at: Ormiston NEW Academy, Marsh Lane, Fordhouses, Wolverhampton, WV10 6SE
Kaye Patrick
Director of OTT and Tutor
Head of Initial Teacher Education (ITE) for Ormiston Teacher Training, I shape the next generation of educators across five regional campuses. My role involves leading weekly training sessions at our Wolverhampton campus, observing trainee lessons, and collaborating with partner schools to provide tailored support.
My journey began with a degree in English Language, Literature, and Art from the University of Birmingham, followed by a PGCE in Secondary English at the University of Worcester. I started my teaching career at one of my placement schools, spending 18 years as an English and Classics teacher before moving into leadership. I became Assistant Principal for Teaching and Learning in 2019 and took on a trust-wide role as an OAT Lead Practitioner. In 2021-22, I completed a Master’s in Classics and Art History and, in 2023, stepped into my current position as Director of ITT.
Since 2006, my passion has been improving students’ educational experiences by empowering teachers. I believe every pupil deserves thoughtful, strategic teaching in every interaction. I love guiding trainee teachers, helping them become inspiring educators who make a real difference.
When I’m not working, I enjoy exploring the classical world, visiting art galleries, and spending time with my family and my two dogs, Bruno and Sonny. My favourite after-work snack? Chocolate, of course!
Marine Judson
Tutor
I am an ITT Tutor based in Wolverhampton, the headquarters of our West Hub. I support trainees throughout their training year by delivering sessions and visiting them in their schools to ensure they receive the guidance they need to succeed.
I hold a degree in English and have worked in education since 2005, starting as a Foreign Language Assistant in a secondary school. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to take on various roles, including Head of MFL, Primary MFL Teacher, and Adult and Community Lecturer in MFL. I’ve been working in Initial Teacher Education for five years now, and I absolutely love it!
Education is a fast-paced and dynamic environment that I thrive in. While I’m passionate about teaching, I also learn something new every day from my trainees. I believe that everyone deserves a high-quality education, and I feel privileged to train the next generation of teachers.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with friends and family, traveling to new places, and embracing the great outdoors. Cooking is another passion of mine; I love experimenting with new recipes!
And my favorite snack after a long day of teaching? Chocolate, of course!
STAFFORDSHIRE TUTORS
Train with us at: Ormiston Horizon Academy, Turnhurst Road, Chell, ST6 6JZ or
Ormiston Sir Stanley Matthews Academy, Beaconsfield Drive, Blurton, Stoke-on-Trent, ST3 3JD
Dave Da Silva
Assistant Head of OTT North and Tutor
I am an Assistant Head at Ormiston Teacher Training’s North Campus, based at Ormiston Horizon Academy in Stoke-on-Trent. My role involves leading all aspects of the teacher training programme locally, including delivering ITaP (Intensive Training and Practice) sessions, PGCE (Post Graduate Certificate of Education) modules, and core training provision. I also lead our Post-Graduate Teaching Apprenticeship (PGTA) programme and oversee our marketing and promotional efforts.
In addition to these responsibilities, I serve as a personal tutor, supporting a group of trainees throughout their teacher training journey. This includes guiding them during training days, offering support within their placement schools, and ensuring they receive their full training entitlement. I also conduct regular observations of their teaching, providing constructive feedback to foster consistent progress, and I assess trainees summatively against the Teacher Standards at the end of the programme.
My journey in education began after graduating with a BA (Hons) in Business Administration from Southampton Solent University in 1998. I then earned my QTS and PGCE from the University of the West of England, Bristol, and completed my NQT (now ECT) induction in a school in Reading, Berkshire. Afterward, I took a 12-month break to travel the world, visiting 17 countries, before returning to the North-West and resuming my teaching career.
Over the years, I have taken on many roles, including Head of Teaching and Learning, Head of Business, Computing and Psychology, Head of Year 10, and Head of Behaviour. I have also been a Professional Tutor (now Managing Mentor), overseeing trainee teachers and ECTs. My experience extends to Special Education/Alternative Provision, where I worked as Head of PE and Computing before transitioning to a school-improvement role across the Trust.
My higher education experience includes working with Liverpool John Moores University and The OAKS (Ormiston and Keele SCITT) on their Teacher Training and PGCE programmes. In 2019, I was promoted to Deputy Director of The OAKS, leading an Ofsted Outstanding provision before our transition to Ormiston Teacher Training.
I believe teaching is the most important profession in the world. Guiding novice teachers and witnessing them reach their potential while delivering high-quality education to their pupils is a privilege. Our Initial Teacher Training programme offers the strong foundation they need to excel in their careers.
Outside of work, I cherish time with my family. My wife and I have two daughters and an Imperial Shih-Tzu named Winnie. I enjoy keeping fit by going to the gym in the mornings before work. My favorite post-work snack? While I’d love to say fruit, ice cream or chocolate is a more likely choice after a busy day.
Andy Clifton
Assistant Head of OTT North and Tutor
I am the Assistant Head of OTT North and OAT Lead Practitioner for ECF in the North and West. My role focuses on training teachers to the highest standards, ensuring they are well-supported, motivated, and able to make a meaningful impact on their students. In addition to overseeing the quality of training during placements and at our Associate College, I also facilitate programs for Ambition Institute, providing guidance and leadership for new ECTs, mentors, and Induction Tutors.
I hold a degree in History from Nottingham Trent University and completed my PGCE and QTS at Keele University in 2008. My journey in education began after traveling the world and teaching English in Japan for two years. I joined OSSMA as a History Teacher in 2009 and gradually became involved with The OAKS, initially on a part-time basis before transitioning to a four-day-a-week role in 2017. I am TeamTeach trained and currently completing my NPQLTD, and I have facilitated for the Educational Development Trust, with more planned for this year as part of my OAT responsibilities.
I believe every child deserves a high-quality education from teachers who are present, skilled, and empathetic to their diverse needs. If it’s not good enough for my children, it’s not good enough for anyone else’s. I advocate for a give-and-take approach in education—putting in effort yields greater rewards.
Outside of teaching, I have a variety of interests. I love road cycling and play football regularly, and I try to squeeze in some golf when I can. Music is also a passion, and I attend as many live concerts as possible. Family time is important to me; I spend weekends watching my son, Henry, play for two football teams, which I absolutely adore. We also try to explore new activities as a family every weekend.
My favourite post-work snack? A Skyr bowl loaded with frozen berries, dark chocolate, chopped nuts, and honey!
Kate Smith
Tutor
I am an ITT Personal Tutor and Languages Subject Tutor for Ormiston Teacher Training, based at the North Campus, Ormiston Horizon Academy.
With over 30 years of experience teaching French, Spanish, and Italian across all levels—from Early Years to postgraduate—I’m a dedicated practising teacher. Since 2007, I’ve worked in Initial Teacher Education (ITE), tutoring secondary trainees across various specialisms. I spent eight years with KNSTE (Keele and North Staffs Teacher Education) as a primary ITE Tutor and lead for Primary Languages, where I also delivered sessions and marked assignments for Keele University.
I draw on my Master’s in Creative and Critical Practice to foster innovative, reflective, and critical teaching across subjects. I believe in using current academic research to improve teaching methods and have a keen interest in using Drama to enhance communication and enjoyment in language learning.
In my spare time, I enjoy yoga, dance, drama, food, and travel.
After work snack? Worcestershire Sauce Flavour Crisps!
Russell Spink
Tutor
I am an ITT Tutor based at the North Campus in Stoke-on-Trent, working across Ormiston Sir Stanley Matthews and Ormiston Horizon Academies. I support programme delivery and mentor a group of trainees, dividing my time between the two sites.
After graduating from a music conservatoire and completing a PGCE, I spent 24 years in high school settings, working in various roles, including Teacher of Music, Pastoral Care, and Senior Leadership. I then joined Keele University’s Secondary Teacher Training team and later became a Senior Lecturer at Staffordshire University, where I led the MA Education and PgCHPE programmes. Between 2017 and 2020, I held concurrent posts as Director of the Stoke-on-Trent Research School and Assistant Director of Keele and North Staffordshire Teacher Education, focusing my research on how teachers engage with research to enhance classroom practice. In 2020, I became a Personal Tutor for OAKS SCITT, and I now serve as an ITT Tutor for Ormiston Teacher Training and the National Institute of Teaching.
My passion for education remains strong, particularly in developing future teachers. I’m dedicated to helping teachers become expert practitioners who use high-quality research to refine their practice. I champion inclusivity and creativity, believing both should be nurtured and celebrated.
Outside of work, I have a keen interest in aviation, having earned my Private Pilot’s Licence in 1994, and I play piano in a local big-band.
My favourite post-work snack? A little dish of delicious pistachios!
Julie Hampson
Tutor
I am a Tutor for the Ormiston Teacher Training North campus, based at Ormiston Sir Stanley Matthews Academy (OSSMA). My role involves supporting a group of trainees throughout their teacher training journey, getting to know them well, visiting their placement schools, and ensuring they receive the training and support they need. I observe their teaching and assess their progress against the Teacher Standards. I also contribute to core training days and ITAP sessions and serve as the OTT Geography Subject Expert, delivering 10 full days of training to our Geography Trainees.
I graduated from Keele University with a Joint Honours BA in Geography and Classical Studies, followed by a PGCE in Geography. After growing up in the North West, I began teaching Geography in Newcastle-under-Lyme, where I worked for over 30 years. I held various roles, including Head of Geography, Professional Tutor, and Associate Assistant Principal, overseeing CPD, Performance Management, and trainee teachers. In 2019, I transitioned into a part-time role with the OAKS (Ormiston and Keele SCITT), which I continue to love, now with Ormiston Teacher Training.
I believe teaching is one of the most rewarding professions, especially during the secondary years, which can be challenging for students. Every student deserves the best education, and that starts with great teachers. That’s why I’m passionate about providing high-quality Initial Teacher Training that equips new teachers to meet the diverse needs of their students.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family—my husband and two grown-up daughters. I enjoy traveling, walking with my two energetic Cocker Spaniels, eating out, listening to music, and cheering on Stoke City FC.
After a long day, nothing beats a cup of tea and some biscuits!
NORFOLK TUTORS
Train with us at: Ormiston Venture Academy, Oriel Avenue, Gorleston, Great Yarmouth, Norfolk, NR31 7JJ
Amy Smith
Assistant Head of OTT East and Tutor
I am the Assistant Head of ITT, East, supporting a group of talented aspiring teachers as they prepare for their permanent teaching roles. Splitting my time between teaching English at an Outstanding Academy as a Senior Leader and developing trainee teachers across a wide network of Norfolk schools, I am fortunate to combine my passion for education with nurturing the next generation of teachers.
Before becoming a teacher, I worked as a Journalist and Press Officer, which naturally transitioned into my role as an English Teacher and Literacy Lead. From there, I quickly progressed to Head of English, where I led a curriculum transformation and supported the growth of a strong teaching team. My career has since evolved into Assistant Head roles at both school and Trust levels, with a particular focus on developing trainee teachers and championing ambitious priorities such as improving outcomes for Higher Prior Attaining students.
I am especially passionate about working with hard-to-reach students, particularly those from less affluent backgrounds, helping them unlock their potential and achieve results they never thought possible. Coming from a similar background myself, I find it incredibly rewarding to see these students succeed and even return to train as teachers through our Norfolk Teacher Training Campus—it’s full-circle moments like these that make it all worthwhile. In my personal life, I enjoy reading (especially books on leadership), spending time with my husband and little girl, and embracing all the joys of family life. After a busy day, my guilty pleasure is crisps and dip—though once I start, it’s hard to stop!
Taryn Belcher-Brown
Tutor
I am the ITT Tutor East and an English Subject Expert for OAKS, dedicated to developing and mentoring trainees to excel in their teaching practice. My role involves providing personalised guidance and fostering a supportive environment that enables new teachers to thrive and make meaningful impacts on their students.
I began my educational journey at the University of Nottingham, earning a Joint Honours degree in English and Theology. I then worked as a Learning Support Assistant for autistic children and SEND students. I completed my PGCE in Secondary English at the University of Bedfordshire. I started my career as an NQT in South London, leading CPD on Literacy Across the Curriculum and serving as Deputy SENCO. During this time, I developed and delivered literacy interventions, managed TAs, and created programs like the STEP up to English qualification.
My experience broadened as I took on roles in Luton, where I held a TLR position focusing on SEND and disadvantaged students, and later as an English Teacher and Deputy House Leader at CNS. Alongside teaching, I have served as a Pastoral Tutor for OAKS and have worked as an AQA Literature Paper 2 Examiner, refining my expertise in curriculum and assessment.
I believe education is about being human. While teaching requires a professional persona, students crave genuine connections and consistent boundaries. Our role extends beyond academics to modelling empathy and resilience, ensuring every student feels seen, heard, and championed. As Rita Pierson famously said, “Every kid needs a champion.”
Outside the classroom, I am a proud mother of two sons, and my weekends are often filled with football matches, swimming lessons, and exploring muddy parks and playgrounds as a family. Maintaining balance is vital, and I prioritise my physical and mental health through boxing, hot yoga, and the occasional Hyrox competition. Reading remains a cherished pastime—sometimes highbrow, often just for fun, providing the perfect way to recharge. My go-to post-work snack? A classic combo of a Freddo and a Diet Coke—simple yet satisfying!
SUFFOLK TUTORS
Train with us at: Ormiston Endeavour Academy Defoe Road, Ipswich, IP1 6SG
Lesley Turner
Assistant Head of OTT East and Tutor
I am the Assistant Head of Ormiston Teacher Training, leading the Suffolk campus in the Eastern Region. It’s a privilege to nurture the next generation of teachers across Suffolk.
I trained at the Central School of Speech and Drama in London and began my teaching career in 1995, later completing my MA in Education at the University of Southampton. With 30 years of experience teaching drama in secondary schools, primarily in Essex and Suffolk, I’ve also had a brief stint in the USA. I’ve spent over 15 years in senior leadership, initially as Director of Specialism for Performing Arts and then as Assistant Principal at an Ormiston Academy, focusing on Teaching and Learning, CPD, Literacy, ITTs, and ECTs. Additionally, I delivered the NPQML programme on behalf of Ambition Institute.
For the past six years, I led the Royal Shakespeare Company’s ‘Associate Schools’ programme for the Eastern Region, coordinating creative teaching approaches to Shakespeare across 15 schools in Suffolk, Essex, and Norfolk. Before joining Ormiston Teacher Training, I was Co-Director of The OAKS Suffolk, a school-based teacher training provider in partnership with Keele University.
I believe education is a lifelong journey and strive to stay current with educational research. I value an education system that realizes individual potential and hold creativity in the highest regard as a cornerstone of effective learning. I advocate for teaching methods that encourage experimentation, collaboration, and inquiry, equipping students with the skills to thrive in a dynamic world.
Outside of education, I am passionate about theatre—whether reading plays or attending performances. My favourite snack after a long day? A cup of Earl Grey tea and a shortbread biscuit, yum!
Paul Daintry
Tutor
As the Initial Teacher Training (ITT) Tutor for Ormiston Teacher Training in Suffolk, I play a key role in supporting the development of aspiring educators. Based at Ormiston Endeavour Academy in Ipswich, I deliver core training sessions while providing pastoral care to our trainee teachers. My responsibilities include visiting placement schools for well-being checks, conducting lesson observations, and offering guidance on any challenges trainees face throughout their journey.
I grew up in Chelmsford and pursued a degree in English and Theatre Studies at the University of Warwick. Post-graduation, I earned a Diploma in Acting from East 15 Acting School, which launched a dynamic career in theatre. Over 15 years, I worked with top venues including the West End, the National Theatre, and Number 1 touring venues both nationally and internationally. Eventually, I transitioned to teaching, dedicating two decades to leading Drama, Performing Arts, and Creative Arts faculties in secondary schools across East London. After stepping back from the classroom, I embraced teacher training while continuing to examine and moderate GCSE Drama across London and the South East.
My passion for education stems from a lifelong belief in the transformative power of artistic engagement. I’ve championed high-quality arts education in Drama, Music, and Art, ensuring learners experience creativity as an integral part of the curriculum. Beyond the classroom, I’ve found immense joy in facilitating impactful theatre trips, workshops, and student performances, especially for young people with additional needs. There is nothing more rewarding than inspiring the next generation to become lifelong lovers of the arts and culture.
Outside of work, I immerse myself in the cultural world through theatre, live music, and art galleries. I’m an avid reader and a devoted (albeit long-distance) fan of Forest Green Rovers, the world’s first vegan and carbon-neutral football club. When it comes to downtime, I relish a cup of loose-leaf tea brewed to perfection—Lapsang Souchong being my smoky favourite—paired with my ultimate treat: Marmite on toast, crisps, or rice cakes (I’m nothing if not consistent!).