Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Kirsty Crosby

Minehead,Somerset

Summary

Results-oriented leader with expertise in SEND organisational management and communication, skilled in creating collaborative environments and executing strategic plans. Proven track record in special educational needs (SEN) education, focusing on effective student placement, retention, and success. Strong problem-solving abilities and relationship-building skills enhance staff performance and ensure consistent outstanding compliance within SEN regulatory frameworks.

Overview

32
32
years of professional experience
7
7
years of post-secondary education
1
1
Certification

Work history

Director

Tivington Farm School
Minehead, Somerset
03.2024 - Current

Launched new farm school alternative provision for mainstream children, achieving rapid growth over past 18 months

Created an innovative outdoor learning curriculum integrating maths, literacy, and PHSE

Success already demonstrated through enhanced engagement of children with their mainstream learning

Cultivated positive relationships with mainstream head teachers to assist teachers in implementing effective behaviour strategies within classrooms for the alternative provision children

Head Teacher & Principal from 2022

Blackford Education (Schools) Ltd, Libra School
North Molton, Devon
09.2018 - Current
  • Expanded specialist independent SEN school from 8 students to 50 students on roll, achieving turnover of £4m.
  • Enhanced school profile to attract more skilled staff, students, and partnerships.
  • Lead team of 75 staff to achieve operational goals.
  • Secured consistently strong Ofsted ratings, achieving two consecutive outstanding gradings.
  • Accumulated over 20 years of experience within Ofsted regulatory framework while supervising Regulation 44 reports across 6 children's homes until closure in 2022.
  • Formulated an extensive curriculum across three learning sites, ensuring high standards of education delivery through meticulous planning and implementation.
  • Cultivated an inclusive and effective learning environment supported by comprehensive data analysis.
  • Facilitate staff development programmes enhancing overall quality of teaching and relational practices with children.
  • Managed all HR requirements of school, demonstrating a robust record of HR practice..
  • Managed safeguarding practices to ensure compliance with legislation and adherence to best practices across all school operations.
  • Implemented behaviour management strategies through staff engagement, cultivating a secure and disciplined learning environment.
  • Sustained secure, tidy, and engaging school atmosphere to welcome children and foster optimal learning conditions.
  • Guide parents and teaching staff on strategies to minimise disruptive behavioural incidents.
  • Maintained high communication standards while engaging with staff, children, parents, and external stakeholders including local authorities.
  • Development and implementation of policies and procedures.

Deputy head teacher

Blackford Education (Schools) Ltd, Libra School
North Molton, Devon
09.2012 - 09.2018
  • Led with regulatory compliance including completing Regulation 44 inspections monthly in 6 registered children's homes.
  • Developed curriculum for improved student performance.
  • Streamlined administrative processes to boost efficiency.
  • Fostered positive learning environment, resulting in increased student motivation.
  • Collaborated with parents for enhanced student progress.
  • Led staff meetings to improve team cohesion and collaboration.
  • Improved academic standards with the implementation of rigorous assessments.
  • Managed disciplinary issues, ensuring a safe and respectful learning environment.
  • Increased parent engagement by organising regular communication channels and meetings.
  • Created strategic plans aligning with school mission and vision.

School Manager

Blackford Education Schools Ltd, Libra School
North Molton, Devon
09.2007 - 09.2012
  • Improved school efficiency by implementing innovative management strategies.
  • Streamlined administrative processes for increased productivity.
  • Fostered a positive educational environment with effective communication skills.
  • Led staff training initiatives to boost morale and competency.
  • Ensured compliance with Ofsted regulatory framework through diligent monitoring and reporting.
  • Handled crisis situations effectively, ensuring safety of students and staff members alike.
  • Managed facilities upgrade projects for improved learning environment .

Owner / Director

That Mexican Place
Chain of 3 Mexican restaurants
06.1999 - 08.2007
  • Established a positive work environment by implementing comprehensive health and safety protocols.
  • Boosted customer satisfaction with consistent quality control measures.
  • Developed new business opportunities for increased market reach.
  • Negotiated contracts with suppliers, reducing overall costs.
  • Delivered high standards of service by training all staff members thoroughly.

University Lecturer

Cheltenham and Gloucestershire University
Cheltenham, Gloucestershire
03.1994 - 06.1999
  • Developed comprehensive course materials, enhancing student understanding.
  • Led lectures for improved student engagement and learning outcomes.
  • Collaborated with colleagues on research projects, improving overall results.
  • Assessed students' performance through assignments and exams, providing constructive feedback.

Education

Bachelor of Science - Hotel and Institutional Management

University of Wales
Cardiff
09.1988 - 07.1991

A-Levels - Biology, Chemistry, Economics

Richard Huish College
Taunton
09.1985 - 06.1987

GCSEs - 7 B's, 3 C's

Taunton School
Taunton
09.1983 - 07.1986

Skills

  • Regulatory compliance
  • Performance data analysis
  • Policy development and compliance
  • Strong communicator
  • Academic administration
  • Engaging leadership style

Certification

Advanced Food Hygiene Certificate June 1994

Group Training Techniques Training Certificate December 1995

Licensed THRIVE Practitioner May 2014

Certificate of Psychometric Testing, Assessment & Access Arrangements (CPT3A) equivalent to Level 7 April 2018

Timeline

Director

Tivington Farm School
03.2024 - Current

Head Teacher & Principal from 2022

Blackford Education (Schools) Ltd, Libra School
09.2018 - Current

Deputy head teacher

Blackford Education (Schools) Ltd, Libra School
09.2012 - 09.2018

School Manager

Blackford Education Schools Ltd, Libra School
09.2007 - 09.2012

Owner / Director

That Mexican Place
06.1999 - 08.2007

University Lecturer

Cheltenham and Gloucestershire University
03.1994 - 06.1999

Bachelor of Science - Hotel and Institutional Management

University of Wales
09.1988 - 07.1991

A-Levels - Biology, Chemistry, Economics

Richard Huish College
09.1985 - 06.1987

GCSEs - 7 B's, 3 C's

Taunton School
09.1983 - 07.1986
Kirsty Crosby