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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin"><a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/members/edel-gillespie">Edel Gillespie</a>, Headteacher at Leagrave Primary School, is a product of the very community she serves.&nbsp;“I was born and bred in Luton,” Gillespie points out. Her roots run deep in the town and her understanding of its nuances are shaped by a lifetime of personal experience. Edel's parents, Irish immigrants who built their life in Luton, instilled in her the value of hard work and the transformative power of education.At university, Gillespie pursued a degree in History and Politics, followed by postgraduate training and a master’s degree while teaching. Her educational philosophy is driven by a passion for enhancing children’s life chances. “I’ve always been interested in how we can help children do better,” she shares. At Leagrave Primary School, Gillespie’s mission is to ensure that every child has the opportunity to thrive academically and develop into a well-rounded individual. “We just look to knock down as many barriers as we can so children can be successful,” she asserts. Her goal is for students to leave with not only a solid academic foundation, evidenced by at least five GCSEs, but also as “good members of society.”Championing Challenges: The Edel Gillespie ApproachGillespie has been steering the institution through a sea of challenges for a decade. Her tenure has been marked by a relentless pursuit of excellence, not just in academic outcomes but in the holistic development of every child under her care.Under her guidance, Leagrave Primary has achieved remarkable academic success, boasting the best results in Luton. Yet, Gillespie remains modest, “Every child is a different challenge,” she asserts, emphasising that accolades and government recognition, while affirming, are not the end goal. For her, success is a moving target, one that evolves with each new cohort of students.The Headteacher’s approach to leadership is deeply empathetic and pragmatic. She understands the emotional toll the job can take and advocates for self-care among her staff, “It’s important to replenish yourself,” she advises, aware of the burnout risks in such a demanding role.As services like health and social care face cutbacks, Gillespie finds more responsibilities landing at the school’s doorstep. She stands firm in her conviction that schools need proper resources to meet these expanding needs, and calls for adequate support to lead effectively.Gillespie’s leadership is not just about steering the school through daily challenges; it’s about ensuring that every child, regardless of background, has access to high-quality education and experiences. From theatre trips to London to creating seaside experiences on school grounds, she is committed to broadening her students’ horizonsNavigating the EducationWith her profound experience, Edel offers invaluable advice for educational policymakers. She believes that the foundation of a civilised society is predicated on education, which in turn creates all professions of tomorrow. “Every profession is built on this profession,” she states.In addressing some of the key challenges, Gillespie urges for long-term thinking in politics. She argues that investing in education will have a positive impact on various societal aspects, including crime rates, healthcare, and technological advancements. “It needs to start in schools,” she asserts.However, Gillespie expresses frustration with the tendency to overload schools with responsibilities that extend beyond their primary role of teaching and learning, and the political short-term goals. For the headteacher, solutions should be targeted at the root causes, such as healthcare and parental responsibility, rather than placing additional burdens on schools.Furthermore, Gillespie challenges the perception of schools as childcare facilities, highlighting the need for a clear distinction between the roles of educational institutions and other support systems. She points out the contradictions in expectations from schools, such as providing clubs and experiences for children while also maintaining a work-life balance for teachers. The headteacher also argues for better communication and involvement of those who work in education when formulating policies. She feels that decisions are often made without a clear understanding of the daily challenges faced by educators. “Talk to people doing the job because it often feels like people who aren’t doing the job are coming up with solutions,” she suggests.Edel Gillespie’s Vision for the FutureWhen reflecting on her legacy, Gillespie sees it as the education and experiences she provides to her pupils. “My legacy isn’t in this building,” she muses. “It’s every child from this school.” For Gillespie, the true measure of her impact lies in the ripple effect of her teaching—a thousand children over thirty years, each carrying forward the values and knowledge imparted to them. “That’s the legacy,” she affirms, “in the children that you help to form and what they go on to do.” Reflecting on the broader implications of her role and her motivation, Gillespie states: “I’m here to develop decent human beings who are going to give back phenomenally to society in their lives.” She takes pride in the accomplishments of her former students, from football players to doctors, acknowledging that she is an integral part of their journey. “There’s such satisfaction in that,” she shares, finding solace in the thought that her efforts are worth it, especially on challenging days.Gillespie’s message to her fellow educators is one of encouragement and recognition. She reminds them of their significant influence: “These children will never forget you.” Gillespie also celebrates the collective effort of the entire Leagrave School community, from the cleaners to the lunch makers and the teachers, each contributing to the school’s success. “It is about the whole group effort,” she concludes.Gillespie’s legacy is not confined to accolades or tangible achievements but lives on in the hearts and minds of those she has taught. Her impact, indeed, is the future she has helped to shape—one child at a time.</div>

Edel Gillespie, Headteacher at Leagrave Primary School, champions academic excellence and holistic development. Born and raised in Luton, her deep community roots and educational philosophy drive her mission to break down barriers for every child's success. With a decade of leadership, Gillespie's empathetic approach and advocacy for resources have led to remarkable achievements and a vision for education that shapes society's future, one child at a time.

Edel Gillespie: Shaping Futures at Leagrave Primary School

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin"><a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/members/reanne-martin">Reanne Martin</a>, Practice Manager at <a href="https://elmslegal.co.uk/">Sleaford-based ELMS Legal</a>, began laying the groundwork for legal expertise straight out of education.&nbsp;“I studied maths at university, and I joined ELMS as soon as I left. I’ve been here ever since!” Martin reflects. Now, nearly seven years later, her role within the firm has evolved significantly from her initial position to that of Practice Manager.Starting as a litigation assistant, Martin entered the legal field at an entry level, a humble beginning that provided fundamental knowledge for the heights she would eventually reach. It was an opportunity that allowed her to step into the workforce and demonstrate the transferable skills honed during her time at university. “the skills that I acquired at university have proven useful and serve my job here very well,” she explains, highlighting the analytical and problem-solving abilities that have been instrumental in her success.In her current role as Practice Manager, Martin is the linchpin of management information, meticulously recording “everything we do.” Her mathematical acumen has been pivotal in streamlining operations and enhancing team performance, contributing to the firm’s growth. “I’ve helped grow the company through the seven years I’ve been here,” Martin states reflecting on the expansion of the team and the business since her arrival.Reanne’s Journey to LeadershipFor Reanne, every obstacle she has faced during her leadership trajectory has only contributed to her growth. “Personally for me, the hardest thing has been growing into management and being a younger person,” Martin shares. At 27, she finds herself navigating the complexities of dealing with clients who are predominantly middle-aged individuals, a dynamic that has tested and honed her ability to communicate effectively despite the age gap.Martin reflects on the impact of these interactions on her leadership skills, “It’s helped in a sense that it doesn’t matter who I’m speaking to. I believe that I can still portray myself in the best way possible.” This adaptability has been crucial as ELMS Legal evolved from an advocacy firm to encompassing debt recovery and litigation, and more recently, landlord tenant work.The legal sector is in flux, with significant legislative changes on the horizon affecting parking law and landlord tenant law. Martin is acutely aware of the need to stay informed, “Both of the biggest sectors that we deal with are having huge changes currently that we’ve got to keep an eye on and stay informed about.” Her proactive approach ensures that ELMS Legal remains prepared to navigate these changes, embodying the flexibility that has become a hallmark of her leadership style.Fostering GrowthWhen it comes to how she envisions her future at ELMS, Reanne sees a future where her leadership fosters an environment of continuous growth and accessibility. “My personal plans are to continue here and move on up to executive level,” she states, underscoring her commitment to ensuring her personal growth is in alignment with the firm’s advancement. Martin’s collaborative work ethic with the owner and the Managing Director, Ed Shoreman-Lawson, displays her dedication and hints at her seamless integration into the executive tier at the firm.Martin’s legacy at ELMS Legal is one of mentorship and empowerment, “I like to go around and see what people are doing, helping them and giving them tips and tricks because I’ve done their job, I was once in their position.” Her experience in various roles within the firm equips her with unique insights, enabling her to guide her team effectively. At the heart of Martin’s ethos is a hands-on approach to staff development, “A big part of my job is training my staff, no matter what level they’re at.” Reanne ensures that she maintains an open-door policy, a stark contrast to the traditional corporate hierarchy. “We don’t have a negative hierarchy,” Martin explains. “You can help everybody, and that just makes the business better as a whole.”As she looks to the future, Martin’s plans for ELMS Legal are clear: to continue nurturing a culture where every member of staff, regardless of their tenure or position, feels valued and supported. It’s a legacy that not only enhances individual performance but also strengthens the firm’s collective expertise and service quality.</div>

Reanne Martin, Practice Manager at ELMS Legal, has evolved through the company to become a driving force behind firm-wide operations. Discover her leadership growth story so far, and how her analytical prowess as a mathematics graduate propels team performance and fuels the growth of ELMS Legal.

From Numbers to Legalities: The Ascendant Career of Reanne Martin

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">Operating nationwide from the heart of London’s bustling cityscape, Mike Charalambous, owner of TF Gas &amp; Heating and TF Energy, has carved out a niche for himself in the competitive world of energy services. But his journey to the top was anything but conventional.“I started out in the banking sector, but I wanted a change,” Charalambous recalls, reflecting on his decision to leave a career in finance. His quest for change led him to British Gas, where he embarked on a modern apprenticeship. “It was a qualification programme” he explains. In less than a year, he was fully trained as a gas engineer—a stark contrast to the traditional three-year apprenticeship.Charalambous’s passion for the trade was immediate: “I loved it straight away.” His tenure with British Gas was a whirlwind of learning and growth, but it wasn’t long before he felt the pull of independence. “I had the urge to work for myself from the start,” he says. Starting as a contractor, he quickly built a reputation for quality work, which led to his first clients in 2008. This led to work with Kinleigh Folkard &amp; Hayward (KFH), the largest independent estate agents in London. Charalambous’s commitment to excellence saw his services expand across KFH’s 40 branches, particularly in North and West London.As demand for his services grew, so did his team, marking the beginning of TradeForce Gas &amp; Heating’s expansion. With his accreditation in hand, Charalambous was not content to rest on his laurels. He foresaw the potential in renewable energy and retrained in heat pumps, leading to the creation of TF Energy, “it’s a carbon-neutral way of doing central heating and hot water,” Mike says. His commitment to green technology extends beyond heating solutions, as TF Gas &amp; Heating now provides a full spectrum of energy-efficient measures, including windows and solar panels.Today, Charalambous manages both companies under one umbrella, ensuring that his commitment to sustainability and customer service remains unwavering. “It’s taken me three years,” he says with a hint of pride. The TradeForce ApproachFor Mike Charalambous, what are some of the biggest challenges of being a leader? “Managing people,” he admits, highlighting the complexities of staff management—a skill that comes through experience. His approach to overcoming this hurdle? Building emotional intelligence. “I’ve done a lot of self therapy and self education on emotional intelligence,” Charalambous shares, citing Stephen Peters’ The Chimp Paradox as a transformative read.His commitment to personal development is mirrored in his management style. Charalambous believes in nurturing his staff to become managers themselves, rather than hiring externally. “I want to put this culture into the DNA of the company,” he explains. This philosophy extends to maintaining a personal touch with clients, a trait he ensures will stay. “We’re a nationwide operation, We’ve got operations in Bristol and Bradford in the north, and what’s important to me is keeping the personal touch. I have no problem getting involved in the work,” he asserts. “That’s what sets us apart from the rest, and I want to instil that to my staff,” he says. This ethos has not only fostered loyalty among his clients but also facilitated the company’s expansion through word-of-mouth recommendations. Tradeforce’s reputation and Mike’s leadership style have led to exciting projects, like the installation of 600 solar panels in an Army hangar in Yeovil Town.Leadership Insights and Legacy: The Charalambous PerspectiveWhen it comes to advice for fellow leaders, Mike doesn’t shy away. “A leader has got to be open-minded,” he states emphatically. He believes that adaptability and forward-thinking are crucial, especially when it comes to environmental sustainability. “We are trying for a green and carbon-neutral world, and at some point it’s got to happen,” he asserts.Charalambous also emphasises the importance of swift and effective problem-solving, particularly in the plumbing and heating industry where issues require immediate attention. “The best example of a leader is one who can deal with problems quickly and effectively,” he says, highlighting the urgency of providing essential services like heating and hot water, especially for the vulnerable.Looking to the future, Charalambous envisions a legacy that reflects the positive impact of his company. He aspires to leave behind a company that people associate with comfort and positivity. “I want it to be a company where our clients feel comfortable and the name of the company comes with a sense of trust and quality service, that’s my goal,” he reflects. Moreover, he values the growth and familial environment he has fostered among his staff, considering it a crucial aspect of his legacy. “It’s really important,” he concludes, “how I’m affecting my staff, and how they’ve seen growth and have become a family.”</div>

Mike Charalambous saw himself transition from the finance sector to the gas and heating industry. His swift transition to a gas engineer and his dedication to quality service have established his companies as leaders in energy services across the UK. Charalambous's leadership is defined by emotional intelligence and a commitment to sustainability, ensuring a legacy of trust, quality service, and a close-knit team culture.

Mike Charalambous: From Banking to Boilers

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">Monica Bradley’s ascent in the financial world is a tale of ambition, expertise, and unwavering commitment to service. As the Owner and Managing Director of <a href="https://www.mbassociates.net/">MB Associates</a>, her story is not just about financial acumen but also about the personal touch she brings to her business.Reflecting on her beginnings, Monica shares, “I started out in the world of finance in 1989.” Her career trajectory is unique; after a year of traditional employment, she embraced the path of self-employment. “Back then, I was a wealth investment and pensions advisor,” she recounts. This foundational period set the stage for her future endeavours.In 2002, a significant shift occurred when Monica moved her operations to larger premises. This move coincided with a period where compliance became paramount, prompting a company transition. It was during this time that Monica’s business began to flourish in the mortgage sector. The growth was remarkable, evolving into a robust team of 12 advisors and 28 staff members.Monica’s approach to her company is deeply rooted in her early experiences. She understands the importance of specialisation in an ever-changing financial landscape. “You can’t specialise in every single area, that’s a thing of the past,” she asserts. This insight has led her to cultivate a team of specialist advisors, each an expert in their respective fields, from equity release to portfolio management for landlords. Through this expertise, the MB Associates team are able to deliver quality insights to their clientele, ensuring they are up-to-date and aware of the most relevant information.The success of MB Associates is built on more than just financial services; it’s built on relationships that span decades. Monica takes pride in the fact that some clients have been with her for 30 years. “We really do help generations of families,” she says. This loyalty is a testament to the trust and reliability that Bradley and her team have established.Looking ahead, the Managing Director is focused on growth and business innovation. With the launch of a specialist and commercial side in June, MB Associates is set to expand its offerings to meet the diverse needs of professional landlords and the property market. Moreover, Monica is passionate about bringing fresh talent into the industry, mentoring them to become the next generation of advisors.The Broker’s EdgeWhen it comes to industry challenges, Monica is acutely aware of the complexities. She believes that the role of a broker is crucial, especially when navigating the financial market. She goes on to explain the concept of ‘mortgage management,’ a proactive approach ensuring clients secure the best possible rate up to the point of exchange. “When lenders pull rates, we move fast,” she reveals, underscoring the urgency with which her team must act to secure favourable rates for their clients.“Rate changes and market volatility are just some examples of the aspects we have to keep an eye on,” she says, referring to the unpredictable nature of the market and the sudden withdrawal of rates by banks without notice. In light of this, Monica stresses the importance of educating clients about the market intricacies. “It isn’t just about the bank base rate,” Monica clarifies. The broader economic climate, including inflation rates and global events, can significantly impact swap rates and, consequently, the mortgage rates. What’s happening all over the world has a true impact,” she says.But despite the continuous hurdles, Monica remains optimistic about the value brokers provide. “A broker really will help,” she asserts, echoing the sentiments of consumer champions like Martin Lewis. Brokers, the Managing Director believes, offer a comprehensive view of the market. They present clients with the best options, help them understand the available choices, and guide clients through the ever-changing tides of the mortgage market.Forging a Legacy of Client CareAs the conversation draws to a close, the Managing Director elaborates on what makes the ideal leader in the industry and her own approach. Leadership, according to Monica, is about setting a standard and ensuring it permeates every level of the company. “Leading from the front and building the culture down from the top,” is how she describes her form. Monica’s ethos is clear: every client deserves equal treatment, regardless of the size of their mortgage. “No client gets treated any differently,” she states firmly.When it comes to the legacy of MB Associates, Monica envisions the company as a paragon of integrity and resilience in the mortgage brokerage industry. “I would like it to be a very well-known and respectable high integrity broker,” she asserts, emphasising the firm’s commitment to helping clients secure and maintain their homes under any life circumstances.But Monica’s vision extends beyond mere transactions; it’s about building lasting relationships and ensuring clients have a reliable point of contact. “We are always at the other end of the phone and the other end of an email for the clients,” she says, highlighting the importance of accessibility and doing right by the client.With over 30 years of loyalty and expertise, Monica’s leadership has fostered a culture of client servicing that resonates throughout the company. The future looks bright for MB Associates, with expansions on the horizon and a focus on specialist lending—a testament to Monica’s forward-thinking and adaptability in an ever-evolving industry.</div>

Monica Bradley's journey from a wealth investment advisor to the Managing Director of MB Associates is a narrative of dedication in delivering quality service. Her firm's success is not just in financial expertise but in nurturing long-term client relationships and adapting to the dynamic financial landscape.

Monica Bradley: Brokerage Services With a Personal Touch

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">In the heart of Kent, a county known for its selective education system, stands Sandwich Technology School, a secondary modern institution led by the formidable Headteacher Tracey Savage. Born into a world where academic success was measured by the pass or fail of the 11 Plus, Savage’s early life was marked by the label of ‘failure’ when she did not secure a place at a grammar school. “I am dyslexic,” Savage reveals, “and I was always destined to be a poor comparison to my clever older brother who did go to the grammar school.”Despite the low aspirations set for her, Savage quietly carved her own path, surprising everyone by pursuing further education and eventually earning a maths degree. Her teaching career began in Doncaster, where she quickly ascended to Assistant Head within her first year. The call of home brought her back to Dover, where she continued to climb the educational ladder, culminating in her current role as Headteacher at Sandwich Technology School, a role she has held since January 2015.Tracey’s personal struggles with dyslexia have shaped her educational philosophy, and she staunchly opposes the notion that dyslexia limits academic capabilities. “If Professor Dumbledore could run into the office right now and say, ‘Tracey, I could wave a magic wand and take your dyslexia away. Would you like me to?’ The answer would be no,” she asserts. The Headteacher credits her dyslexia for her ability to see the big picture and solve problems, skills that are invaluable in her leadership role.Under Savage’s guidance, Sandwich Technology School has become a beacon of high expectations and academic ambition. “We quite regularly have students interviewing for Oxbridge,” she states with pride. What’s more, her commitment to collaboration and community is evident in her efforts to work closely with other schools in the district, including grammar schools. This cooperative approach ensures a unified educational experience for students across the region, regardless of the school they attend.Navigating the Tides of ChangeAs a seasoned educator and headteacher, Tracey confronts the challenges of modern education with a blend of determination and insight. She notes that one recent example is that of COVID, and the changes the pandemic brought in the attitudes of students and parents. The Sandwich Headteacher is also acutely aware of the difficulties faced by secondary modern schools compared to grammar schools, especially amidst a national recruitment crisis. “Five years ago, if I had a teacher who was long term absent, I would be able to find a supply teacher to cover them. But that’s no longer possible,” she laments.Despite these hurdles, Savage’s resolve remains unshaken. “To be honest, these challenges make me all the more determined,” she declares. Her leadership is pivotal in maintaining the morale of both students and staff, ensuring that they do not crumble under the weight of these circumstances. “It’s my job to deal with the turbulence and the changes,” she states, committed to keeping everyone focused on what’s important and ensuring they have the capacity, freedom, and spirit to thrive.When it comes to addressing these challenges, Tracey’s advice to policymakers is clear: “Listen to the professionals in the industry.” She urges recognition of the diverse range of education systems across the country and calls for a framework that acknowledges the unique challenges of secondary moderns.The headteacher’s plea for understanding extends to the complexities added by the variety of school categories. Tracey believes that policymakers need to be more involved and informed about the current educational system to avoid basing decisions on outdated or irrelevant experiences.Cultivating a Legacy: Tracey Savage’s Vision for Educational LeadershipAs Tracey Savage reflects on her nearly decade-long tenure as Headteacher at Sandwich Technology School, her vision for educational leadership is clear. “I am a relatively intuitive person,” she states. Savage’s leadership style defies categorisation; she is an amalgam of reason, empathy, and decisiveness. When asked what her idea of an exemplary leader is, she says one who “leads with intuition, fairness, and a collaborative spirit, who sets high standards for students and staff alike, and who leaves a lasting, positive impact on the school community.” Her legacy is not just in the policies she’s implemented or the hurdles she’s overcome, but in the ethos she has instilled within the school. Tracey’s commitment to high expectations and a broad educational experience for all students is unwavering. “They’re entitled to a full and broad curriculum and that’s what they get here,” she asserts, challenging any notion of limiting students’ potential based on their background.Looking to the future, Savage’s approach to leadership is one of stewardship and collective effort. “I see myself as the caretaker of the schooI, and I want to leave it in a better state than it was when I arrived,” she explains. This mindset extends to her team-building philosophy, where she values unity and morale: “We’re facing tough situations, but we face it together and we’re generally pulling in the same direction.”</div>

Tracey Savage, Headteacher at Sandwich Technology School in Kent, defies the odds of dyslexia and leads with a philosophy that champions high academic standards and collaborative community efforts. She exemplifies the ability to overcome adversity and driving educational excellence in a modern secondary school setting.

Shann Jones

Articles published by Shann Jones

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