Teaching Staff

Headteacher

Mr Nathaniel Wilson

Senior Leadership Team

Mrs Jacqueline Hepburn, Assistant Headteacher (Curriculum and Assessment)

Mr Andrew O’Rourke, Assistant Headteacher (Behaviour)

Mrs Claire Turney, Assistant Headteacher (Teaching and Learning)

Mr Paddy Downes, Assistant Headteacher (Personal Development)

Mr Dean Dummet, Assistant Headteacher (Pastoral and Safeguarding)

Mrs Laura Becker - Associated Assistant Principal and Second in Mathematics

Mrs Becker graduated university with an LLB Second Upper Class Honours Degree in Law with Business. She went on to take a gap year and travelled across the world, including visiting Italy and the USA. During that time she gained work experience as a learning support assistant in a local, middle school. This made her realise her passion for education and she left her career in law to become a teacher. She went on to achieve QTS through the Graduate Teacher Programme and has now worked in education for fourteen years.

During her teaching career, Mrs Becker has led many successful departments in roles such as 'Head of Maths', working in both state and private schools. She joined Wixams Academy in 2020 as a Maths teacher and has since held responsibility as 'Second in Maths'. Mrs Becker continues in this role but is also an associate principal with responsibilities in Personal Development across the Academy. Mrs Becker also works closely with the University of Bedfordshire supporting trainee Maths teachers and mentoring newly qualified teachers.

In her spare time, Mrs Becker enjoys cooking, running and spending time with her family and friends.

Academic Staff

Abbi Clelland - Assistant SENDco

Mr Abid Hussain - Teacher of DT

Mr Hussain holds a degree in Electronic Engineering and Business from Middlesex University, after completing his degree, he worked as a Recruitment Consultant, developing strong communication and organisational skills. He then did a PGCE program with the Chiltern Learning Trust. Since then, he has had a rewarding 20-year career as an educator, dedicated to inspiring and supporting students.

In addition to teaching, he is actively involved in community work through a charity, Faith in Queen’s Park. He heads up the Cricket Project for Queen's Park Youth Cricket Club as a qualified Level 2 coach, creating a nurturing environment for young athletes to develop their skills and passion for the sport.

Miss Abigail Collins - Teacher of English and Drama

Miss Collins pursued her passions and graduated from the University of Bedfordshire with a first-class BA(Hons) in English and Theatre Studies followed by an MA in English Literature. She worked in retail and tutoring whilst studying and her interest in teaching was confirmed when she left sixth form and began volunteering at her previous school. After completing her PGCE, she taught in another local school, before joining the Wixams team.

Away from teaching, she enjoys reading, trips to the theatre and museums. She also really enjoys cooking when she comes home and is often experimenting with new recipes.

Mr Adam White - Head of Maths

Mr White graduated from the University of Warwick with a BSc in Mathematics, where he also completed his PGCE teacher training. He initially worked in Coventry, before moving to Bedford and continuing to teaching at Hastingsbury Upper School, now Kempston Academy. Throughout his career he has specialised in A Level Mathematics and Further Mathematics. Mr White has taught at the school since the early days of Wixams Academy, and he has been central to developing the Mathematics Department. He has overseen the start of GCSE and A Level courses and is excited to see growth in the Sixth Form.

When he gets the chance, Mr White likes to be outside, either on a long walk or paddling a canoe on the river.

Mr Adam Wright - Teacher of Art and Food

Ms Alexa Hill - Head of English

Ms Ana Domingues-Prats - Teacher of Spanish

Ms Angela Smith - Head of Art

Mr Benjamin Durrant - Teacher of English

Mr Durrant graduated from The University of Kent with a First-Class Honours degree in Comparative Literature in 2020. Since then, he has spent time teaching around the world, notably for a year in Ngqeleni, South Africa; and for another year in Shanghai, China. Upon returning to the UK, he completed his PGCE in Secondary English whilst working in schools across Hertford, Bedford, and Luton.

In his spare time, Mr Durrant likes to go to the gym, watch rugby, and spend time with friends and family.

Mr Brett Byatt - Head of Politics and Sociology

Mr Byatt studied Politics at Leeds Beckett University, specialising in political economy. He then went on to complete a Masters in International Political Economy at the University of Manchester, where he specialised in imperialism, development, and comparative theory. He has work published in the academic journal Capital & Class.

After his Masters, Mr. Byatt completed a PGCE in Sociology. His passion for teaching was inspired by his own experience of A-levels and university. He is a firm believer that education can benefit anyone, no matter their background, which was evident in his own journey.

Besides teaching, he enjoys reading sci-fi, theology and political theory. He frequently attends live music concerts, and tries hard to maintain a regular exercise regimen.

Mrs Brinda Hartwell - French Teacher

Mrs Hartwell, a native of Mauritius, is fluent in three languages and as a dedicated language enthusiast, is currently learning a fourth. She holds a BA in French and History from the University of Mauritius and an MA in International Relations and World Order from the University of Leicester. She also pursues a range of creative and outdoor activities in her free time, including cycling, sewing, knitting, crochet, gardening, camping, hiking, and DIY projects.

Mrs Charlie Kaler - Teacher of Mathematics

Mrs Kaler graduated from the University of Bedfordshire with a first class honours degree in Educational Practice. Whilst working as an NQT in a middle school based in Kempston, she continued with the University of Bedfordshire and studied for a Masters in Teaching and Learning. She progressed to become head of the History department before taking on the role of a teaching Head of Keystage 3. She joined Wixams Academy in 2019 as a Maths teacher with the whole school responsibility for Maths intervention. She is passionate about building positive relationships with students and their parents to ensure the highest standards and progress are met for all.

Away from teaching, Mrs Kaler enjoys cooking, reading and spending time with family and friends. She is also learning Italian using Duolingo!

Miss Charlotte Hindmarch – Teacher of PE

Miss Hindmarch graduated from University of Lincoln with a BSc in Physical Education and Sport and further studied her PGCE at University of Bedfordshire.

In her own time, Miss Hindmarch enjoys refereeing in and around the local areas and has recently begun mentoring new referees. Miss Hindmarch is also a keen footballer and badminton player.

Mr Chas McDevitt - Teacher of Music

Mr McDevitt graduated from University of York with a BA in Music. He worked in commerce and administration for several years at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London and then in Sydney, Australia as a Finance Manager for Bupa Healthcare. A move into music teaching was sparked by two sons who were choristers, and he obtained a PGCE at Nottingham Trent University.

Away from teaching, he plays trumpet in a local brass band as well as running and performing regularly with a jazz quartet. He also has a strong interest in food and following Jamie Oliver recipes on YouTube!

Mrs Chloe Blessings - Head of Music

Mrs Blessings studied at City University London, where she graduated with a BMus in Music. Once graduated, she wasn't sure what was next for her, so she applied for a job as a teaching assistant in a special needs secondary school in Luton. Having absolutely loved working with such amazing students, she was ignited by a passion for education, working with others and seeing students thrive.

Mrs Blessings is a woodwind musician; she plays the flute, clarinet, and saxophone, along with piano and occasionally dusts off the vocal chords. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and two young children, playing netball, and walking the dog in beautiful places.

Mr Chris Ashdown - Duke of Edinburgh Co-ordinator

Mr Ashdown graduated from the University of Bedfordshire with a BA Hons. in Sport and Community Leadership. Following this, he went onto complete a PGCE. After having taught full time, Mr Ashdown, decided to come out of teaching in pursuit of starting his own company, Edusports, which has allowed him to progress to becoming a qualified Outdoor Instructor in a multiple of different disciplines, of different outdoor sports. He is qualified to deliver a number of different Governing body courses and runs the DofE and Outdoor Adventure Programme at Wixams whilst also helping support the Outdoor Adventure programme in other local schools too.

Mr Ashdown has been at Wixams since the Duke of Edinburgh started there, growing the programme into what it is today.

Away from teaching, you can often find him looking to find the next adventure, whether it be in the hills or on a water activity, just look somewhere outdoors!

Ms Claire Chilton - Head of Computer Science

Ms Colleen Junor - Head of Physics

Mrs Crystal Wincent - Teacher of Mathematics

Mrs Wincent graduated from an University in India with a Bachelors degree in Engineering. She then worked in an IT industry for 7.5 years. After taking a career break to raise her two children, she did her PGCE in Bedford and is now working as a Maths teacher.

Mr Dan Xue - Teacher of Mathematics

Ms Ella Crapnell - Teacher of English

Ms Felicity Lawless - Head of Food Tech

Mrs Fiona Wustrau - Teacher of PSHE

Having graduated with a first-class degree in Art Practice in the Community and DipHe in Youth and Community education Mrs Wustrau has over 20 years’ experience of working with young people in a variety of settings. In schools she has been a Learning Mentor and Mentoring Manager, a Social and Emotional Aspects of Learning Co-ordinator and delivered workshops and peer learning programmes on discrimination for the Anne Frank Trust. Her work has always focused on the personal development of young people and teaching life skills to support them in adulthood. She joined Wixams Academy in 2021 to teach PSHCE (Personal, Social, Health, Citizenship and Economic Education)

Ms Gabrielle Gosling - Teacher of English

Mr Geraldo Da Conceicao - Teacher of Maths

Mr Jack Downes - Head of Science

Mr Jamie Stevens - Head of Year 11, Teacher of Mathematics

Mr Jamie Whenham - Teacher of Mathematics

Mr Whenham graduated from the University of York with a BSc in Mathematics. Having been a semi-professional magician since he was 11, he was able to begin teaching magic as a summer job while still at school. This led him to undertake his PGCE immediately after finishing his maths degree. This included a placement at Wixams Academy, where he was then offered a job.

Away from teaching, he regularly plays tennis and enjoys snowboarding and video games.

Dr Johanna Jarvis - Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator

Dr Jarvis brings a unique blend of expertise in science education and outdoor leadership to Wixams Academy. In addition to her doctorate in Astrophysics, Dr Jarvis is a certified Hill and Moorland Leader, Camping Leader, and Duke of Edinburgh Accredited Assessor and Supervisor. Her certifications in kayaking, climbing, and outdoor safety enable her to lead a variety of outdoor activities that complement the academic curriculum and foster holistic student development.

As an Outdoor Education Coordinator, Dr. Jarvis is committed to creating engaging programs that inspire students to explore and connect with the natural world while building resilience, teamwork, and leadership skills. Her innovative approach integrates outdoor learning with STEM education, encouraging students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world contexts.

Miss Julie Kavanagh - Key Stage 3 Lead

Miss Kavanagh graduated from the University of Bedford with a BA Hons in Social Science and an MA in Education from Cambridge University. She has had an extensive and varied career in both Education and Social Services supporting the wellbeing of vulnerable young people.

In her spare time Miss Kavanagh enjoys going to the gym and keeping fit

Miss Julie Price - Head of Year 8, Teacher of English

Miss Price graduated from the University of Bedfordshire with a degree in English and Theatre (BA Hons) followed by a PGCE in Post-Compulsory Education and QTLS; she is also an examiner for GCSE Language Paper One.

Prior to teaching at, and becoming Head of Year 8 at Wixams Academy, Miss Price specialised in teaching English Language at Milton Keynes College to a variety of vocational students training in Care provisions, Engineering, Computer Science and Multi-Skills labouring. She began her teaching career at Denbigh High School in Luton and has also worked in the special needs sector for many years across all age groups and abilities. As part of her career before teaching, she also ran after school and holiday clubs for SEND children.

Growing up, she trained in theatre and dance as well becoming a cheerleader for Luton Town Football Club. Miss Price also has a passion for languages, especially Spanish, and likes to travel to Spain when she can during the holidays. In addition, she likes to attend the theatre and enjoys treasured time with her family and pug, Cookie.

Ms Kay Everett - Teacher of Science (A-Level)

Ms Kelly Miles - Teacher of Geography and ECT Manager

Ms Miles graduated from University of Sussex with a Bachelor of Arts in Geography with Education, after completing a PGCE (2008) in Geography teaching she taught at Harlington Upper School in Bedford for 10 years before joining Wixams Academy (2018). During her time at Harlington Upper school she completed a Postgraduate diploma in Education (PGDE) with University of Bedfordshire. She taught KS3-KS5 Geography and Travel and tourism. Her roles include Teaching and learning lead and Assistant head of sixth form.

Upon joining the academy she set up the geography curriculum. Her roles at the academy have included Head of Humanities, Head of Geography and ECT Manager. She has also supported teaching across the academy, mentoring and training new teachers and now is the Early career teachers (ECT) Manager. She works alongside the University of Bedfordshire and Chiltern training group to support teacher trainees across Bedfordshire. She has completed an NPQLTD (National professional qualification in leading teacher development). K.Miles strives to promote excellent teaching practice and develop staff, she regularly takes part in ResearchED events and won greatest classroom impact award 2023 in the Bedford Teachmeet.

Mr Kieran Farrer: Teacher of PE

Mr Farrer graduated from the University of Bedfordshire with a BSc in Physical Education with Qualified Teacher Status. He previously worked in a boarding school as a sports coach.

Outside of work Mr Farrer loves playing Rugby for his local club and is often found working with the Bedford Blues foundation providing training opportunities for younger kids.

Ms Kirsty Price - Head of Year 8, Teacher of English

Ms Laura Becker - Associate Assistant Headteacher, 2nd in Maths

Miss Loretta Della Ripa - Teacher of Spanish

Miss Della Ripa graduated from the University of Leicester with a degree in Modern Languages with Business Management. After university, she began her career as a Spanish Project Manager in the hospitality industry, where she travelled to Spanish-speaking countries to train hotel staff on using innovative in-room hotel tablet technology. This experience sparked her passion for teaching, leading her to pursue a career in education.

With parents originally from Italy, Miss Della Ripa grew up with a strong appreciation for languages and culture. She speaks French alongside Spanish and first developed her love for languages at Bedford Girls’ School, where she studied Spanish, French, and Italian at A-level.

As a passionate Spanish teacher, Miss Della Ripa is a valued member of the teaching and learning team, supporting colleagues, sharing best practices, and inspiring her students to love Spanish as much as she does.

Outside of work, Miss Della Ripa enjoys spending time outdoors, whether walking, cycling, or exploring nature.

Ms Louise Baines - PSHCE

Ms Louise Veazey - Teacher of Psychology/PE

Mr. Luca Dal Pero - Teacher of Computing

Born in Italy, Mr. Dal Pero is fluent in both Italian and English. He began his academic journey with a diploma in surveying before pursuing a range of university courses in mathematics and economics. In 1999, he moved to England, where he earned a BSc in Computing and Information Systems from the University of the West of England in Bristol. Following this, he completed a PGCE in ICT at Liverpool John Moores University and later undertook a postgraduate course in Advanced Teaching Practice at the same institution.

Since then, Mr. Dal Pero has worked as a supply teacher across a variety of schools, including primary, secondary, and special needs institutions. Outside of work, he enjoys walking and cycling in his free time.

Ms Maria Valverde-Pascual - Head of Spanish

Mr Matthew Davison - Science Teacher

Mr Davison completed his undergraduate degree with Leeds Metropolitan University and then spent several years coaching in a variety of locations across America, before moving in to teaching. Since completing his PGCE with the University of Exeter, Mr Davison has held leadership positions in 3 different schools across Bedfordshire before joining Wixams Academy in 2023.

Away from teaching Mr Davison enjoys walking his dog, taking part in a range of sports and cooking.

Miss Maxine Correya - Teacher of Art (Acting Head of Art)

Miss Correya graduated from the Open University with a BA (Open) Honours, specialising in Contemporary Art and Psychology, after completing a Higher National Diploma at Barnet College of Art. She worked as a graphic designer based in London in various advertising agencies. Her interest in teaching was confirmed after running art clubs for children in her local village. After completing her degree and teacher training whilst working at a school, she has worked at several schools in and around Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire as Head of Art, Head of Faculty and Associate Vice-Principal.

Away from teaching, she continues to work at her small studio on personal projects. She is from a mixed-heritage background, English, Indian and Portuguese and enjoys cooking dishes from each region

Mrs Natasha Biddles - Head of Key Stage 4

After studying Marketing with Business Studies at Canterbury Christ Church University College, Mrs Biddles worked in marketing for a technology company and then a local theatre before completing her GTP and coming into education in 2005. Mrs Biddles predominantly taught Business Studies to GCSE and A Level until 2016. Choosing then to specialise in pastoral care, she then held posts in behaviour, safeguarding, attendance and as a head of year.

In her spare time Mrs Biddles enjoys the escapism of a good book and trips to the theatre.

Ms Natasha Hide - Head of Media

Ms Hide graduated university with a degree in Media Performance. She went straight on to complete her QTS whilst training in a school. Ms Hide originally taught Media and Drama at GCSE and A Level. After a few years, she realised her passion for Media studies and pursued this subject. She became Head of Media and has carried out this role across two schools. Ms Hide has also been a head of year in the past and therefore has a wide understanding of students' needs and and abilities. She has been a GCSE examiner and moderator and prides herself on her subject knowledge and rapport with students.

Ms Hide has been at Wixams Academy for three years, developing the Media department in all aspects, including increasing interest in the subject and organising exciting trips such as the recent media trip to New York!

Ms Hide has been teaching for 13 years and is passionate about using her subject to teach students about the real world and the effects Media can have on our daily lives. In her spare time, Ms Hide likes to spend time with her children, family and friends. She is also a film enthusiast and enjoys the theatre.

Ms Naomi Gibbs - Head of RE and PSHCE

Mr Nicholas Whitlock - Teacher of Science

Ms Nickesha Francis-Morris - Teacher of Design and Technology

Ms Nicola Catling: Head of Year 10 and Teacher of Drama

Ms Catling studied a BA Hons in Drama at the University of Northampton. From this she went on to complete her PGCE at Oxford Brookes where she trained to be a Drama teacher. Over the last 10 years Ms Catling has worked as a head of year and head of department across two different schools in Beds and Bucks before settling at Wixams Academy where she has been since 2021. She has always wanted to be a teacher and enjoys the chaos of every day.

In her spare time Ms Catling takes on challenges to raise money for Keech Hospice Care such as skydives, event planning and the London Marathon in 2025!

Ms Nikki Culley - Teacher of Geography

Mr Nitin Karla - Teacher of Business and Economics

Mrs Rachel Ryan -Teacher of Science

Mrs Ryan graduated from Anglia Ruskin University with a BSc in Chemistry. She spent 15 years working in research and development of adhesives for the aerospace industry and a number of years working in schools as a science technician. Mrs Ryan completed her PGCE at the University of Bedfordshire. Prior to joining Wixams Academy, Mrs Ryan taught science at Samuel Whitbread Academy.

Ms Radika Wickramsinghe - Teacher of ICT

Mr Ryan Craze - Head of History

Ms Sabina Rahman - Assistant Head of Sixth Form, Criminology/Psychology Teacher

Ms Saeed Ahmed - Head of Business

Ms Sinead White - Head of Maths

Mr Steve Nicholson - Head of Geography

Ms Susan Smith - Teacher of English

Mr Tom Davies - Head of Physical Education

Mr. Davies graduated from the University of Bedfordshire with a BA (Hons) in Sport and Physical Education, followed by a PGCE from the same institution. He began his teaching career at Bedford Free School and Bedford Academy, where he completed his teacher training. Mr. Davies secured his first full-time teaching position at Wixams Academy, where he has remained dedicated ever since. He was given the Head of Physical education role in July 2024.

He is passionate about promoting sports at the academy and is dedicated to inspiring students to achieve their best in PE lessons and sporting events. Outside of work, Mr. Davies has a particular interest in football and actively participates in the sport.

Ms Vanessa Pereira - Head of Dance

Miss Victoria Adesina - History Teacher/ Head of Year 7

After graduating from the University of Nottingham with a BA (Hons) in History, Miss Adesina stayed on to complete her PGCE, where she developed a passion for teaching and supporting young people. Miss Adesina had the opportunity to work in a variety of schools across Nottingham, helping her gain valuable experience in different educational settings. She began my teaching career at Wixams Academy in 2020 and in September 2024, She took on the additional role of Head of Year 7.

Outside of school, Miss Adesina enjoys reading widely, traveling to new places and embracing opportunities to learn new skills. Staying fit is also an important part of her life and she loves discovering new interests.