Page 50 - The East Sussex Way

Authors

Jane Branson

Jane has worked in schools in East Sussex since 1994. Drawing on her
experience as teacher, leader, trainer, adviser and governor, she
now runs her own educational consultancy. She is an avid enthusiast

of children’s and YA books, and has worked with over 100 schools to
improve outcomes in reading and writing. A self-confessed word and
grammar nerd, she is also an experienced Philosophy for Children
trainer, and has written numerous student and teacher text books.

Hannah Hamer

Hannah is Literacy Lead and Deputy Director of English at Bexhill

Academy in East Sussex. She has held a number of roles within
schools, including head of English, and has gained her National
Professional QualiÞ cation for Middle Leadership. Hannah believes
that literacy is the fundamental keystone in education and is
passionate about ensuring every pupil is given the tools they need to
succeed.

Tara Hobson

Tara joined Hailsham Community College in 2017 as a cover
supervisor. She has taught in key stages 3 – 5 and gained her
National Professional QualiÞ cation for Senior Leadership. She is now
Assistant Director of Learning for Social Studies and PSHE Lead. Tara
has a passion for literacy and a strong belief that everyone has the
right to learn to read – and that it is every teacher’s duty to ensure
this happens and secure success for all pupils.

Catherine Michica de Oliveira

Catherine has been teaching at Chailey School for ten years where
she is now Faculty Leader for Humanities and Curriculum Leader for
History. She is currently studying for an MSc in Senior Leadership in
Education.

Ruby Murphy

Ruby has worked at Polegate School for 12 years. An experienced
Year 5 and 6 teacher, she is also a specialist in English education
and has been English Lead for six years. In 2021, she was recognised
as Wellbeing Champion for Wealden and Wellbeing Champion for
Sussex in the Sussex Teacher of the Year awards. She believes that
an inspiring, challenging English curriculum gives pupils the freedom
to explore and experiment whilst developing a meaningful, personal

45 interest in their literacy skills.