Educators
Head of Provision & Safeguarding Lead
Brad Gilchrist
Brad is a highly skilled mentoring professional with a wealth of experience in Education and Sport. Brad’s passionate about working with young people and nurturing them to help reach their full potential. Beginning as a sports coach, he later transitioned into Education after graduating with a degree in Sports Development and Business. He has worked within Alternative Education for over 8 years, which has provided him with invaluable experience in building strong and meaningful relationships with young people, educators and parents. Outside of work, Brad loves playing football and is a big Manchester City fan and season ticket holder. He loves spending time with his family and his dog, Leo!
Director
Connor Hall
Connor is an experienced business professional and entrepreneur. He has managed several businesses within Greater Manchester and has a wealth of knowledge from all areas of business. Connor played a key role in the organisation of the Oldham Education Festival for multiple years on behalf of Oldham Council. In 2019, Connor won the 'Young Entrepreneur of the Year' award at the Oldham Business Awards, and later went on to organise and promote TedX Oldham. In his spare time, you'll find Connor at his local Jiu Jitsu gym, playing football, or at his local pub quiz!
Director
David Jackson
David is a very knowledgeable and qualified teacher with over 15 years of experience. He began working with young people in his teens as a youth worker and sports coach and has thrived doing so ever since. He strongly believes that building rapport with children is the key to engagement and the catalyst for achievement. David is exceptional at helping students exceed their target grade, this has been highlighted throughout outstanding results achieved from his students across various establishments. David is also involved in helping with early careers teachers within the early years framework. Away from work, David is also a Manchester City fan. He loves all things sport, and has played football for most of his life. He also loves spending time with his family, especially his daughter Frankie!
Operations Manager
Brandon Gilchrist
Brandon is vastly experienced within Alternative Education from both hands on 1-2-1 mentoring with young people, to the day to day management of business. He has worked as a mentor and Head of Centre for over 7 years. He wants to continue to expand his knowledge in the field, and help as many young people as possible!. Outside of work, he loves taking his dog on long walks, watching football, and he definitely shows everyone up in the office when it comes to solving a Rubik's Cube!
Digital & Business Coordinator
Roisin Rafferty
Roisin has a wealth of experience in areas such as business operations and digital marketing. Roisin has been involved in multiple business start-ups from tech businesses to management of new restaurant openings. In 2018, she led a graduate & apprenticeship scheme program for young people aged 16-21 which introduces young and interested individuals into the world of coding and developing. She also travelled to Le Mans, France to teach primary school children English, and further her French studies. When she's not in the office you can probably find her in the ring at her Muay Thai boxing gym, or getting lost in antique furniture stores!
Student Engagement Coordinator
Lianna Andrews
Lianna brings a wealth of experience across the educational spectrum, from early years to higher education. She holds a first-class honours degree in Early Years and Education and is deeply passionate about working with young people. With a love for language and literature, Lianna has taught English as an additional language to international students and she also speaks Italian fluently as she lived in Milan for 3 years! In her spare time, she enjoys running, reading and travelling with her family!
Finance and Administration Coordinator
Paige Benton
With a degree in Early Childhood Studies from Liverpool John Moores University, Paige brings a wealth of experience to the team. She has a strong background in Alternative Provision as she has previously worked as a support mentor and a teaching assistant in a primary school where she focused on 1-2-1 support for students with special education needs. In addition to her educational roles, Paige has held several financial positions within the finance industry, further enhancing her expertise in finance and administration. Outside of work, Paige enjoys spending quality time with her daughter and long weekend walks with her dog!
School Dog
Leo
Leo is a well-behaved, super friendly, 3 year old Labrador who loves people. He qualified in Aerospace Engineering and Computer Science in 2019...just kidding! But his favourite things to do are walks on the beach, chasing his favourite ball and of course eating! When he is not at school, he lives at home with Brad and the rest of his family. We recognise the potential benefits of including a dog into mentoring sessions where suitable as a means to enhance engagement and participation of young people. Way to go Leo!
1-2-1 Mentor
Matthew Owen
Matt brings a wealth of diverse experience to his role as a 1-2-1 Mentor. Matt was one of the first mentors to join our team, and his impact over the years has been nothing short of incredible! The profound feedback he’s received from both parents and educational professionals speaks volumes about his dedication to his students. As a highly experienced and qualified chef, Matt also leads our 'Esteem Eats' cooking program, which provides students with valuable life skills through hands-on cooking classes- Yes Chef!
Outside of work, Matt is an accomplished cricketer and plays at a high level and represents league teams. He's also fluent in Spanish, and loves traveling and exploring with his partner and dog- Winnie!
1-2-1 Mentor
Alex Macdonald
Alex brings a wealth of experience and a passion for making a positive impact on the lives of young people. He has an abundance of experience working with very challenging and unique young people. Alex has decades of experience within sport, especially football, where he is an experienced and highly qualified football coach, founding and running his own junior football club. He has also taken on the crucial role of Youth Football Club Welfare Officer. Most recently, Alex has worked as a PA for a young person with a variety of different needs, to support them on their individual complex needs. A true family man, Alex is a devoted partner to his fiancée, and father to his two wonderful kids. He's also a huge Manchester United fan!
1-2-1 Mentor
Daryl-Anne Baguley
Daryl has worked with young people in various areas for over 10 years. She also has a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) degree in History. She discovered her true passion whilst working in schools - making a difference in the lives of disengaged young people. This led her to a career as a Learning Mentor, where she found her calling. Her journey then led her to the Youth Justice Service (YJS) as a Serious Youth Violence Engagement Officer. There, she provided invaluable 1-2-1 mentoring, guiding young people towards positive choices. Daryl's dedication continued as she joined a charitable organisation, playing a key role in developing their mentoring programme. Daryl has initiated and ran after-school clubs for girls, creating a safe and empowering environment for them. Daryl loves big hikes and trying new activities, she has recently got into Softball and Rugby!
1-2-1 Mentor
Tom Pucci
Tom is a dynamic mentor with a wide range of skills and passions. As a qualified personal trainer, he thrives on motivating and guiding young people towards a healthy and balanced lifestyle. Tom often takes his Esteem students to the gym- they love working on their fitness goals with him! Aside from being super social, Tom also enjoys the occasional quiet night in, cooking and watching TV. He has a huge passion for sport; football in particular, whether he's playing it or watching it, and he also loves going on long hikes!
1-2-1 Mentor
Harry Greaves
Harry comes with a wealth of leadership experience through his years of coaching, which has helped him connect and build relationships with young people. Having completed a degree in Physical Education at Leeds Beckett University, Harry continued his passion for sports and coaching as he began coaching Ice Hockey - a sport in which he plays to a high level. Away from sport, Harry is extremely passionate about music, having opened his own music studio! When he's not recording the next big hit, Harry also loves watching his favourite football team-Liverpool.
1-2-1 Mentor
Katie Ashton
Katie is a very spiritual person that has a profound passion for helping young people who struggle with their mental health and wellbeing. Katie has worked in SEN schools as a support worker assisting children with a wide range of needs. Katie is passionate about the impact physical education can have on improving mental health issues- she is a Level 3 personal trainer! She loves having a really positive outlook on life and her favourite thing to do is spending valuable family time with her son!
1-2-1 Mentor
Isaac King
Isaac has built a diverse career across Finance, TV, and Sales, and holds a degree in Project Management. Driven by a desire to give back, he transitioned into Alternative Provision, inspired by his own positive childhood experiences and a passion for helping young people thrive. Isaac has already built incredible relationships with his current students, earning their trust and respect through his genuine care, support, and commitment to their success. Outside of supporting our students, Isaac enjoys trading, running, and reading a good book!
1-2-1 Mentor
Tom Lennard
Tom is experienced in various areas such as coaching, sports development and business. Tom coached at Goalball, the national governing body for the Paralympic sport that aids people with visual impairments. He assisted players with new and useful techniques, refereed games and travelled to local special needs schools to engage with a wider range of young people. He then went on to achieve a degree in Sports Development at Sheffield Hallam University. Tom says his greatest enjoyment in this role is seeing his students take new steps and thriving in their achievements. In his free time, you can find Tom trying his hand at golf, or taking his two young boys out to trampoline parks & play centres!
1-2-1 Mentor
Kathy Eastham
Kathy is qualified and experienced in Teaching and educational training in multiple areas. She completed her post grad in teaching and went on to work at Eccles Sixth Form College for over 2 years. Kathy has also received a BA Degree with honours in Media and Cultural studies in Liverpool. Kathy finds teaching young people massively rewarding especially 1-2-1 mentoring. When she's not teaching, Kathy loves throwing herself into the world of acting! She also loves spending time with her two children, and her cat too- shoutout to Fred! Kathy's claim to fame is that Bryan Adams once brought her on stage to sing with him in Manchester, life goal achieved!
1-2-1 Mentor
Harvey Prince
Harvey has a broad spectrum of experience ranging from business, hospitality, sales and customer service. He has also studied abroad in Australia! Harvey decided to become a mentor because he recognized the powerful impact positive guidance can have on young people. Inspired by his own life experiences, he wanted to help students navigate challenges and unlock their full potential, believing that every young person deserves the chance to build a better future, no matter their circumstances. Outside of work, Harvey is a massive Burnley football fan, and has also recently got into golf!
1-2-1 Mentor
Khloe Fox
Khloe has worked at a SEN school as a teaching assistant for over 5 years. Khloe has a vast amount of training in areas such as First Aid training, Epilepsy training, Gastro training, and also Safeguarding- just to name a few! Khloe enjoys working with young people that need support so she can share some of the advice and life experiences she feels she would have benefited from as a child. Khloe also loves doing nails, going to the gym and she has a little sausage dog called Missy!
1-2-1 Mentor
Michael Berrisford
Michael has delved into many different areas over his career ranging from personal training, construction and recruitment. Since moving into education, this has been the first time he's felt really positive and enthusiastic about his work as he's loving the opportunity to make a real difference in young people's lives- we love to hear it! When he's not changing lives, you can probably find him playing cricket or football with his mates!
1-2-1 Mentor
Hannah Austin
Hannah brings a wealth of experience to the team with a background spanning across multiple SEN primary and secondary schools and care home environments. Holding a Level 2 qualification in Childcare and a Level 3 in Health and Social Care, Hannah is well equipped to to assist young people. She is also first aid trained! Hannah is driven by a passion for fostering positive change, and she is dedicated to helping young people flourish and reach their full potential. Outside of her professional life she enjoys bowling, long walks, spending time with family and she's a big chocolate lover...we can definitely relate Hannah!​
1-2-1 Mentor
Joe Keegan
Joe attained a BTEC in Sport studies and then went on to study Sports Business and coaching at UCFB University. He is certified with a Level 1 Coaching Badge in Football and Dodgeball and is also trained in Mental Health First Aid. He currently also works along side Oldham Athletic as part of their Match Day Media Team and also serves as a Community Coach! Joe is passionate about learning and enjoys helping others develop skills that benefit their daily lives. In his spare time he loves playing football and snooker and he loves films!
1-2-1 Mentor
Amy Allen
Amy has previously worked as a Youth Mentor where she developed a deep understanding of the challenges young people face. Reflecting on her own experiences, she is committed to ensuring that each individual she mentors feels supported and understood. Amy's caring nature, combined with her enthusiasm for learning and helping others, drives her to make a meaningful impact to those she works with. She has completed advanced courses in ACEs & Trauma Informed Practice, Emergency Paediatric First Aid, and holds a Level 1 NVQ in Youth Work and has also taken a course in Mentoring People in Community Settings. Aside from Youth Work, she has also worked in other fields such as Nail Tech and Butchery! Amy enjoys keeping fit, loves horses and is a big fan of Christmas!
1-2-1 Mentor
Rabi Mushiya
Rabi is a dedicated professional with extensive experience supporting at-risk youth, particularly those recently released from prison or facing their final opportunity to change course. Passionate about guiding young people toward positive transformation, Rabi helps them unlock their potential, set and achieve meaningful goals, and build a brighter future. With a degree in Health and Community Development, he brings a strong foundation of knowledge and skills to his mentoring approach, empowering individuals to grow and thrive. Outside of his work, Rabi is an avid traveller, he visits around six countries each year, seeking to connect with diverse cultures and broaden his perspective.
1-2-1 Mentor
Rick Ashcroft
Rick has over 30 years of experience mentoring and coaching young people. He holds a BSc Hons in Applied Sports Science and is qualified in counselling and age-specific coaching.
He has worked with Positive Futures in Manchester, supporting development and employment opportunities. Rick is currently also studying Advanced Wilderness Therapeutic Approaches (Level 3). Rick’s extensive experience in coaching has equipped him with valuable skills that directly enhance his ability to mentor students. His deep understanding of personal growth and development allows him to provide tailored support, helping each student reach their full potential. Rick is passionate about sport, cultures, travel, and helping others grow. He thrives on challenges and loves being stretched beyond his comfort zone.
1-2-1 Mentor
Clare Goss
Clare has over six years of experience in education, with three years spent in a pastoral role. In her previous position as Assistant Head of Year, she was responsible for overseeing behaviour, safeguarding, attendance, and student welfare. Clare holds a Level 4 Higher Level Teaching Assistant qualification and a Level 3 Safeguarding certification, providing her with the expertise to effectively support and mentor her students. Prior to her career in education, Clare spent 20 years working in law, this background has equipped her with a strong ability to handle complex situations with attention to detail. Clare has climbed several 4000m peaks in the French and Italian Alps and has ticked off over 100 of the 214 Wainwrights in the Lake District. A committed runner, Clare has completed two marathons, with a personal best of 3:34 in London- go Clare go!
1-2-1 Mentor
Alex Heaton
Alex has over 11 years of experience in education, specializing in supporting children and young people who face challenges in their learning for a variety of reasons. With a passion for finding creative ways to help students engage with and access education, Alex is dedicated to empowering young people to succeed on their own terms. Alex is an avid sports enthusiast, particularly football, and has held a season ticket for Manchester City for over 25 years. He is also a dog lover, with two dogs of his own, and enjoys outdoor activities such as camping, fishing, and walking. Alex’s commitment to the outdoors reflects his belief in the importance of connecting with nature as part of a well-rounded life, something he tries to incorporate into his sessions with his students.
1-2-1 Mentor
Olivia Hulston-Warner
Olivia has extensive experience in education and support roles, with a strong focus on helping individuals overcome challenges and reach their potential. Olivia previously worked as a Learning Support Assistant where she supported students with SEND and mental health needs, offering tailored 1:1 assistance both inside and outside the classroom. Olivia has also worked as a Job Coach, helping individuals with CV writing, job search strategies, interview skills, career planning and life skills.- a great expertise she uses to help her students prepare for the future! Olivia has also supported young people, including those facing homelessness or financial hardship, providing guidance and practical support, and she also holds a qualification as a Mental Health First Aider. Outside of her professional life, Olivia enjoys drawing, family time and Christmas is her favourite time of year! Having danced professionally and taken ice skating lessons, she embraces a wide range of physical pursuits.
1-2-1 Mentor
Alia Omer
Alia is currently in her final semester of a BA (Hons) in Working with Children and Families, building on her earlier academic background, including a BS in Development Studies from Pakistan. Alia previously served as a Nursery Coordinator at a chain of nurseries where she developed expertise in child development and creating safe, nurturing environments for children.
Alia is deeply committed to safeguarding children and making a tangible difference in their lives, ensuring they receive the care and support they deserve. Her approach to mentoring is rooted in her belief that every child has the potential to thrive when provided with the right support and encouragement.
Outside of her professional life, Alia enjoys cooking, baking, reading, and values her time spent traveling and relaxing at home!
1-2-1 Mentor
Beth Woodhouse
Beth has a calm and supportive approach, but also thrives in a busy and fast paced environment- making her a perfect and well rounded mentor to work with young people! She is passionate about making a meaningful impact and loves helping young people to develop confidence.
Beth’s professional background also includes experience in other areas such as accounts, administration, and payroll, but she was eager to move into a more rewarding field in education.
Beth loves taking a wide variety of courses to gain new knowledge and experience and her time as a self-employed Aesthetics therapist has also equipped her with excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to build strong relationships.
In her free time, Beth enjoys spending quality time with her daughter and family, as well as staying active through walking & swimming!
1-2-1 Mentor
Sam Newton
Sam is a dedicated and versatile professional with extensive experience in education. Trained as a secondary PE teacher, Sam has worked in a variety of educational settings. With a strong interest in mental health, Sam also holds a Level 2 qualification in Counselling Concepts and is currently studying Level 3 in Counselling Skills at college. Sam is a certified Mental Health First Aider for Youth through MHFA England. Sam volunteers as an Amateur Boxing Coach at a local club and has also previously worked as a Goalkeeper Coach for Manchester City Ladies FC!
Driven by a passion for helping people, Sam thrives in a field that offers a personalized, creative, and person-centred approach.
In his spare time, Sam enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, supporting Manchester City and Oldham Roughyeds, and attending local non-league football matches!
1-2-1 Mentor
Ella Bergin-Williams
Ella has worked in a primary school for the past five years, as both a Teaching Assistant and also a PE Coach. During this time, she worked closely with children with SEND and SEMH, and helped to create supportive learning environments where every child could thrive. Ella is a Level 2 swimming teacher with over 10 years of experience. Her passion for swimming has been lifelong and from a young age she has competed nationally!
Ella is currently studying Sport, Fitness, and Coaching at university which reflects her ongoing commitment to furthering her knowledge and skills in her field. She is deeply passionate about working with children and helping them overcome their individual challenges, fostering growth, and success in every student she works with.
In her spare time, Ella enjoys staying active by going to the gym, and she loves spending quality time with friends and family.
Get In Touch
Contact us to refer a student or get more information on the Esteem Mentoring Programme.