Teachers

Nursery

Claire Jenkins - EYFS Leader

I can safely say Oakfield Primary has been a big part of my life for many years now – please feel free to come and ask me how and I will bore you with all the history! But for now, I would like to say I am very excited to have joined the school as Assistant Head for Early Years.    I have worked supporting Families and their children for over 15 years now since completing a Bsc Psychology Hons degree; specialising in Early Years since 2008.  I gained a National Qualification in Integrated Centre Leadership before being awarded Early Years Qualified Teacher Status and then Early Years and Key stage 1 Qualified Teacher Status.  I love learning myself and enjoy sharing this love and enthusiasm for learning with our children in the Early Years classes.  I have two daughters who attend Oakfield and so I really do have an invested interest in supporting the whole school to grow and develop to provide excellent provision for all children.

In my spare time I love horse riding, especially jumping, and looking after our pets with my girls. We have horses, dogs, sheep, cats, ducks and a chicken. Oh and some gold fish too! I love being outdoors and am a trained Forest School Leader.  I come to Oakfield with my animal companions…. Winnie and Fig – the Guinea Pigs and three Giant African Land Snails, Buster, Gary and Carla. I have to say the names were given to them by my previous class long before I came to Oakfield so no reference to Mr Ratcliffe!  I look forward to getting to know all the children and parents/ carers, over my first year here!

Cathy Chatwin

Georgia Payne

I have worked with children of all ages during my career. I have recently joined Oakfield and I’m enjoying my time within the nursery setting.

Reception

After working as a teacher at Temple Hill for 17 years teaching both key stage one and two  I have just started an exciting adventure over at Oakfield. I am currently working in the foundation stage which is fun and challenging.  Outside of school I enjoy spending time with my 2 energetic children Thomas and Holly. I can usually be found watching and supporting from the side of a rugby pitch/swimming pool/ballet class.

In my own time I love keeping fit. I enjoy using my local gym and running. I have recently taken up OCR running which involves trail running and completing crazy obstacle courses – all in the name of fun!

I have been teaching since 1998. I was at Temple Hill for 15 of those teaching years and have just moved across to Oakfield. I started my career in Reception and since then taught in year 1 and year 2. This year I am back to Reception and loving it! Outside of work I love the Theatre - I belong to a Theatre group and am often to be found dancing, singing and acting. I am married with two young boys and they keep me very busy too!

Gemma Brett

I joined the Galaxy Trust in January 2018 when I started working in Year 1 at Temple Hill Primary Academy after spending 12 years teaching across all primary ages, from Nursery to Year 6, in schools in and around the Dartford Area. In September 2018 I transferred to Oakfield Primary Academy.
 I love the community feel at Oakfield and I really enjoy getting to know the children and their families across the school. I am also very lucky to work with an incredible team of people who all share the same passion for children’s learning and development.
 Outside of school, I have a daughter and son who keep me active and on my toes with their busy social lives.  My weekends and free time are spent enjoying days out and spending time with my family and friends.

Reshma Pauvaday

I graduated from Reading university in 2009 with a degree in Fine Art. After working as a Teaching assistant in nursery and reception, I became passionate about early years learning. I went on to complete my PGCE, specialising in early years education at Goldsmiths University.

Outside of school I like to spend time with my family and friends. I enjoy listening to music, seeing art and make things.

Kerry Warner

I have been teaching within the Trust for 10 years now.  Most of this time I have spent within Key Stage 1 at Oakfield but I also spent a year teaching at Temple Hill where I learnt so much and have many fond memories.  I didn't return to Oakfield for long though as I then discovered our little family of 2 would be growing and I had my little girl Molly in 2017.  I can definitely say that being a mum to a little one brings a whole new level of tiredness to the job but also a realisation of just how little, individual and amazing they all are. I look forward to meeting the children and families on their journey through the school and my door is always open for a chat so pop on by!   

Elizabeth Redwood

I began my teaching career at Oakfield in 2010 after completing my PGCE at Canterbury Christ Church University. Over the years I have taught in years 1, 2 reception and nursery. My real passion is teaching in the Early Years. I love how organically children learn through play and enjoy exploring the world with them.

Outside of school I am Mum to two young boys who certainly keep me very busy! We enjoy spending quality time together as a family especially long walks with our dog Bru.

Year 1

Rebecca Arnold-Jarvis

Donna Christie

Hello!

I began working at Oakfield in 2001. First as a 1:1 Support Assistant, then as a Teaching Assistant and I'm now a qualified teacher (since 2008). I love working with the children in KS1 and seeing the huge progress they make in their younger years.  We have a lot of fun learning and exploring the world around us!  I look forward to seeing the many familiar, and new faces, when teaching your children over the coming years.

Alisha Jones

Hello! My name is Miss Jones and I am very excited to be joining the Oakfield team this year. I have been teaching for two years where I have taught year 1 and year 2. I absolutely love teaching children in KS1, watching them grow and make huge amounts of progress. I can’t wait to get to know my year 1 class, have lots of fun and learn a lot too. I am extremely excited to be taking on the role as PE lead and I hope to pass on my love for physical activity. Outside of school, I love reading, spending time with my family and friends and going out for long walks in the woods with my two beautiful dogs.    

Year 2

Vikki Coombes

Before joining Oakfield, I worked within the Inclusion Department in a secondary school in Gravesend whilst completing my degree with the Open University.  I joined Oakfield in 2013 and in September joined the year 5 team as a School Direct Teacher with Mrs Malone. Since joining the Oakfield team, I have taught in years 2, 5 and 6 and loved the variety of challenges I have faced, and the experiences and memories I have made.

This year, I will be continuing my role as Maths Leader but also starting my new role as Assistant Head for Lower Key Stage 2. I am passionate in continuing to create a safe and stimulating learning environment where the children can enjoy learning.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending quality time with my family which usually involves my husband and I supporting our two sons from the edge of a cricket or football pitch or long walks in the woods with my dog Obi.

Talisha Pain

I have recently joined Oakfield all the way from Gravesend. I completed my teacher training at Middlesex University with a degree in Primary Education. I am very excited to getting to know the children and help them develop to their fullest potential.  Outside of school, I am a considered adventurous and unique by friends and family due to my passions and interests.    

Sukhminder Randhawa

Since joining the teaching family at Oakfield Primary Academy in January 2019, I bring over 10 years teaching experience to an already well-established team.  I am dedicated to preparing engaged learners to reach their greatest potential. I’m fortunate and blessed to be teaching at an amazing school that has a nurturing and loving environment, where children can learn and experience new challenges that will help to build their confidence whilst having fun, ultimately looking for a positive impact on the child’s growth.

Shortly after graduating from Christchurch University with a PGCE, I excelled in my teaching career track and was promoted to the role of Early Years Leader where I was able to spearhead the development and growth of the Department, through the use of coaching and mentoring strategies. I love being part of a child’s educational journey and witnessing those eureka moments and personal discoveries, in which they grasp a concept which they may have found difficult.  Outside of teaching, my interests include: quality family time, following Liverpool football club, travelling, socialising with friends and aerobics.

Jemma Bailey

I joined Oakfield in November 2015 and have since completed my School Direct training to become a qualified teacher. Prior to this I completed a degree in Childhood Studies and Education at Aberystwyth University, whilst also working in a private nursery.    I love being part of the year 2 team and seeing the amazing progress that children make at this age. Outside of school I love travelling, baking and anything arty!​

Jayne Bindra

Hi! I'm proud to say that I have had experience in teaching every year group during my career. A real recent highlight for me was living in India, volunteering for a charity which teaches children in the slums of Mumbai. I love the sun (I was not born for this climate), travel, music and have a particular interest in social justice. 

Sevinc Harrison

After taking my first degree in Economics I trained to be a primary school teacher in 1997. I then started to work as a primary school teacher. In 2011, I completed my second degree in Law at the University of Greenwich and am currently studying for a Masters in Education. I have been working as a teacher in Oakfield since 2012 and enjoy being part of the Oakfield family and get great pleasure in being a teacher.

Matt Brooker

When asked by friends and family, "why teaching?" My response is always: I am passionate about learning. No matter how young or mature (old) you are, you can always learn. Taking an alternative route into teaching, through many career paths; working within the watch/jewellery industry being a personal favourite I, eventually, found myself training to become a teacher. I have finally found my calling. My experiences are something that I try to use to inspire the children I teach, that it is never to late to make THAT difference and become a success. 

I look forward to supporting many children to become the successful future sports personalities, doctors, mechanics and who knows, maybe even a sprinkling of teachers. 

Sarah Akister

I grew up in Hertfordshire, moved a few times as a child and ended up in Kent in 1992.  I have been in teaching since 1997, having studied a BA (Hons) course in Education at Sunderland University.  Having worked in Ashford and Swanley, I joined Oakfield in 2002. At present I am Science co-ordinator.  I participated in a variety of activities as a child but kept up horse riding and swimming as main interests as an adult.

Alisha Smith

I have recently joined Oakfield after completing my Mathematics and PGCE in Primary Teaching with a Mathematics Specialism at the university of Greenwich. I am passionate about helping children achieve their full potential and grow in confidence, as well as making sure they are well-rounded polite individuals. I have a passion for Mathematics, and think it is a skill that can lead into many paths in life. Outside of school, I enjoy reading, watching films and playing video games.

Year 5

Gemma Rutherford

Hello again! My name is Mrs Rutherford and I am very excited to be returning to Oakfield after teaching at a school in Bexley. In 2011, I joined Oakfield as Miss Hemsley and thoroughly enjoyed my two years teaching in year 3 and 4. Whilst I’ve been away, I have led history and geography in a large primary school and I am very excited to return as an Assistant Headteacher in charge of the Curriculum!  I am passionate about Oakfield’s Learning Journey: I cannot wait to see the growth of our historians, geographers, scientists, musicians, athletes, artists, designers, linguists, computer engineers, sociologists and provide experiences that unearth the talents that the children didn’t even realise that they possess!

Sue Malone

 My passion for teaching began when I joined Temple Hill Community Primary School as a Teaching  Assistant in 2000, following a career in media, where I spent many exciting years working in the newsroom  of a national daily newspaper. After completing my BA Hons Degree with Canterbury Christchurch University,  I was selected as one of the first members of the newly formed Graduate Teachers’ Programme, which I  completed in 2007. I have taught in both Years 5 and 6 and worked alongside wonderful children, parents  and staff over the years.

 In September 2013, following the Federation with Temple Hill, I joined Oakfield as a Year 5 teacher. During  the next year, I look forward to sharing expertise and building relationships with both children and families  as we move towards outstanding.  Please come and say ‘Hello’.

I love my job....although I don’t enjoy the paperwork! No two days are ever the same which keeps me on my toes – no mean feat at my age! When I am not teaching, you will find me following Arsenal (Up the Gunners!), listening to music, caravanning in Whitstable with my husband and daughter or walking my naughty Beagle, Betsy!

Claire Wade

Hi, my name is Mrs Wade and I am delighted to be returning to Oakfield Primary Academy to teach amongst many familiar faces and lots of welcoming new faces too. This school was where I began my teaching career way back in 2004! I have many fond memories of the children I taught and so I’m relishing the idea of teaching Oakfield children again. Since being away, I have been Maths leader and taught all year groups.

In my spare time you will find me with my fantastic family and friends, doing many a spin class at the gym and just generally enjoying myself.

Harlie Lovell

Hello! My name is Miss Lovell and I am a new teacher at Oakfield. When it comes to learning, I am very passionate about making the school day enjoyable and exciting for all children. I enjoy giving children the opportunity to take their learning outside of the classroom whenever possible! I am really looking forward to starting my teaching journey in an amazing school. I can’t wait to get to know each and every child in my year 5 class, we are going to have a really fun year! 

Year 6

Layla Priddy

Hi! I’m Miss Priddy and I’m one of our Assistant Headteachers at Oakfield Primary Academy. I am also currently our English Leader.

I joined Oakfield in 2012 as a Teaching Assistant before going on to complete my teacher training in 2013. Since qualifying, I have taught across a variety of year groups such as Year 6 and Year 2, but you’re most likely to find me teaching in KS2.

In 2019, I went on maternity leave but I am now back and excited to be teaching again. Now, in my spare time, I am no longer going to the cinema or enjoying a lazy weekend; instead I am running around after my little girl (which I absolutely love!).

Megan Melbourne

I have recently joined Oakfield after completing my primary PGCE with Mathematics at the University of Greenwich. I am extremely excited to begin my teaching journey in an amazing school and look forward to meeting and getting to know all the children. I love the fact that in teaching no two days are the same. I cannot wait to help develop children’ s learning and help them to reach their full potential both in their education and in themselves. I am also keen to see what the children can teach me along the way. Outside of school I love playing netball with my mum, sister and friends. I am also partial to a bit of golf here and there with my Dad. I love seeing my niece and nephews during my free time (although sometimes they can drive me crazy). If ever you are passing by, please come and say hi!

The ARC

Karen Thomas
Assistant Headteacher

I started my teaching career in 1996 in the rolling hills of Wales working in a residential school with children with severe challenging behaviour and learning difficulties.  It was there that I developed my passion for working with pupils who respond to a more creative way of thinking.  My interest in behaviour and my passion for championing those whose voices are not always heard, or understood, has led me on a very interesting and fulfilling path during my career. Creativity and compassion are my strengths, and in times away from school, I can be found either in the kitchen baking and decorating celebration cakes for willing recipients, bringing my vision to life in my garden and rooms of my first owned home, or spending time enjoying all that Kent has to offer either with friends, family or supporting a special young man with SEN.  

Additional Teaching Staff

Keeleigh Jackson
ASD Outreach
I joined the Trust in 2012 working in Key Stage 1 at Temple Hill. In 2014 I transferred to Oakfield with the exciting opportunity to set up our Specialist Resource Provision for children with Autism, the ARC. In addition to leading our provision, I provided outreach support to Temple Hill and other local schools. This year my role focuses on ASD outreach across the Trust.

Clair Sayers

EYFS SENCo

I have been a teacher at Oakfield for over 20 years and now have the pleasure of teaching the children of children who were in my first class. I am now supporting children who have additional needs in the early years. I love working with our youngest children, who often make every day a very magical experience, whether it be pretending to be a dinosaur stomping through long grass or getting messy with paint or gloop. In my spare time, I love spending time with my family and walking in the countryside.

Rachel Brooker
Speech and Language Therapist

I am excited to have recently joined the Federation as a newly qualified Speech and Language Therapist after completing a BA Hons in Sociology and Criminology in 2010 and recently my postgraduate diploma in Speech and Language Therapy. I am passionate about supporting the children to succeed in a fun and exciting way. My previous experience includes working within schools and with children with Special educational needs. In my spare time I love spending time with my friends and family.

Melody Dalligan

Speech and Language Therapist

Julia McCloskey

Assistant Headteacher (SENCO)

After studying and graduating with a First Class Honours degree in St Mary's University College, Belfast, I joined Oakfield in 2014 as an NQT. I thoroughly enjoyed working in Year 4 and Year 2 as Year Group Leader and KS1 Maths leader. In 2018, I embarked on a new opportunity in a one-form entry new school, which brought with it the opportunity to train as a SENCo through Canterbury Christ Church University. Throughout my time there, I was also appointed as Deputy Headteacher. Shortly after I returned from maternity leave, I sought a familiar yet exciting and new adventure in Oakfield once more.  It is lovely to be back and to see those who I've taught in the past come back to visit and hear about their success! I have a passion for pugs (my wardrobe is full of pug scarves and dresses) and working with children with SEND. I find my job incredibly rewarding and it's amazing to see the progress and confidence grow in the children I work alongside.