Qualifications & Curriculum

Hawthorn Education offers each of its students a comprehensive, bespoke curriculum, designed just for them.

Their learning pathway is created in conjunction with their current school or education provider, in order to compliment and enhance past and present learning, whilst ensuring measurable progress at all stages.

We are able to do this by putting into place a hand-picked team of specialist teachers, to create the perfect blend for every student.

We are able to offer teaching across the following areas:

  • GCSEs
  • ‘A’ levels
  • Entry Level
  • Functional Skills
  • Step Up to English
  • Open Awards
  • City & Guilds

We also offer equine therapy, courtesy of our stables. This is ideal for students who require an alternative to traditional therapy. Our fully qualified equine therapist uses the horses and associated stable work, as a conduit through which to engage young people.

Please contact us to find our more about what we can offer.

Hawthorn Education Benefits

Education

Our mission is to bring education to young people at any stage of learning.

DBS Cleared

All of our tutors are fully DBS cleared and have extensive experience within the teaching profession.

Education Package Implemented Immediately

We have a proud track record of delivering our education packages in an efficient and timely manner.

Individual Learning Plans

Hawthorn Education have experience with most of the major exam boards but understand that some pupils need a more practical educational bespoke experience which caters to their individual needs.

Keeping your Informed

Written progress reports are provided on a daily basis for all of our students.

Building Confidence

With all of our students we follow a structured and intensively managed process which is always focused on outcomes in order to build confidence and raise attainment standards.

A broad and balanced curriculum leading to nationally recognised qualifications

At Hawthorn Education, we provide access to the national curriculum and teach to a range of external examinations at a variety of levels, including GCSE, entry level certificates and a variety of QCF vocational awards, certificates and diplomas, which are all recognised nationwide by employers and colleges.

Our pupils access a wide range of subjects, including:

  • English (Literature and Language)
  • Science
  • History
  • Religious Education
  • Physical Education
  • PSHE
  • MFL – French/German/Spanish
  • Maths
  • Computing
  • Geography
  • Art
  • Citizenship
  • Food Technology
  • Land Based Studies

Our education packages are structured, carefully managed and focused on outcomes in order to build confidence and raise attainment standards. By working closely with local colleges, we aim to ensure successful transition to further education and or vocational study.

Meet the Team

Trish Chellal

Specialist Teacher

Ellie Payne

Specialist Teacher

Hannah Eccles

Specialist Teacher

Gareth Kirkpatrick

Specialist Teacher

Tracey Hunter-Isherwood

Specialist Teacher

Naomi Thomas

Specialist Teacher

Jeanette Le Page

Specialist Teacher

Michelle Emery

Specialist Teacher

Alison McDonnell

I’m an enthusiastic and dedicated education professional with over 14 years of experience. My career has been all about providing exceptional education and support to a diverse range of learners, and it’s been a journey marked by relentless commitment and positive outcomes. I’m deeply committed to advocating for the needs and rights of every student and creating an inclusive and equitable learning environment for all.

Richard Hartley

Specialist Teacher

Rachel Jagger

Specialist Teacher

I am a passionate educator who aspires to ignite a spark for learning in every student I teach. I graduated from the University of Manchester with a Bachelor of Honours in History. Subsequently, I obtained a PGCE in Secondary History Education and earned my Masters Degree in Education in 2020. In the early stages of my career, I taught in schools in Cheshire. Later, I had the opportunity to teach History in northern Italy, where I was also Head of Year. I then advanced to a position in France, where I continued teaching History and took on the role of curriculum coordinator for the Middle School (KS3).

Jenny Love

Specialist Teacher

For the past 16 years I have been working as a primary school teacher but I am excited to embark on a new chapter working for Hawthorn Education. I passionately believe that all children, regardless of background or circumstance, have the right to a good education in order to help them reach their full potential. It will be a privilege to use my skills and experience to help provide the young people in my community with an education tailored to their needs. My free time is mainly taken up with my two children who are gymnastics mad. Not only do I spend a lot of time driving to and from training, but also up and down the country for various competitions. We also have two very energetic dogs who like a good walk along the canal or the beach each day!

Emma Tranter

Specialist teacher/East Lancashire Coordinator

I am a skilled Mathematics teacher with over 25 years experience of teaching Key Stages 3 and 4. I have a strong history of breaking down complex concepts to help students understand and replicate problem-solving steps. I am committed to achieving positive outcomes in the educational and emotional development of my students to maximise their potential.

Wendy Greaves

Specialist teacher

I have been a Maths teacher in secondary for 20 years and have taught KS3 and GCSE in several schools in the North West. Recently I attained a Post-Graduate certificate in Dyscalculia, as I truly believe anyone can learn Maths, you just need to find strategies that work for the individual. This is why I really enjoy working for Hawthorn Education, as you have the ability to adapt to the needs of each young person, motivating them to fulfill their potential.
Prior to teaching I worked in industry for an aircraft company and was the first female apprentice to become an Aircraft Fitter within the company, meaning I built and assembled parts of planes for a living.
I am passionate about learning and love my job as a Maths teacher, D of E expedition leader, mum and examiner for Edexcel. When I am not working, I enjoy travelling and spending time walking in the wilderness. My ambition is to complete all 214 Wainwrights before I reach the next milestone age!
I actively support children who want to achieve their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Awards and have qualified as a Lowland Leader and Outdoor First Aider. I have recently taken up the sport of Pickleball, so please feel free to ask how to play as it has strange rules like, “you can’t volley in the kitchen”.

Sheila Wastell

Specialist teacher

I am a qualified teacher with over 20 years of teaching experience in mainstream education. I graduated from the University of Nottingham in 1980 with a B.A. (Hons) in French with German, followed by a PGCE from the University of York in 1981. I have lived and worked in France, Switzerland and Italy. I joined Hawthorn Education in 2016.

Malcolm Fowler

Specialist teacher

An experienced teacher, Malcolm has over 25 years experience working in specialist education environments with a strong focus in humanities and physical education.

Previously a subject leader in his specialist areas, Malcolm has supported children with complex social, emotional and mental health needs to overcome the barriers they faced to go on and achieve their potential, including excelling in formal assessments.

Utilising a suite of both personal attributes and professional skills, Malcolm has been able to work effectively with children for whom have found education in the traditional classroom based system too difficult. Malcolm has been a key part in their growth, both academically and personally.

Malcolm’s interests outside of work are centered around personal fitness and his background in semi-professional sports makes him an ideal person to support children developing desirable attributes which will support their wider development and future success.

Gillian Caton

Specialist Teacher

I have been a languages teacher for over 20 years and have taught French, Spanish and German in several schools in Lancashire. I also have experience in teaching both English and Geography, and have mentored students who were unable to access classrooms.

I am passionate about teaching and love my job at Hawthorn Education, working with individual students and helping them fulfill their potential.When I am not working, I enjoy travelling and spending time in Spain. My German Shepherd and Golden Retriever ensure I have some daily exercise, and I also do Pilates every week.

Jacqui Feather

Specialist Teacher / North West Area Manager

I am a qualified Primary School teacher with over 23 years experience. I have been working with Hawthorn Education for 2 years and I have just taken on the role of North West Area Manager.As a teacher, I have worked with young people across all key stages and I enjoy the daily challenges this brings. I love working 1-2-1 with the students as I am able to adapt my teaching to suit the needs of the individual.

During my time working in school, I was PSHE Lead and I regularly use the skills, resources and strategies I learned then to build positive relationships in my day-to-day teaching now. In my free time I love to spend time with my family and friends. I have a busy social calendar and I really wouldn’t have it any other way! I enjoy travelling – Italy is my ‘current’ favourite holiday destination. I’ve explored Venice, Rome, Florence and Lake Garda so far. Sorrento and Mount Vesuvius are next on my list. I also enjoy walking in the Lakes, reading and cooking when I get the chance.

Vicki Gale

Specialist teacher/ Fylde Coast Coordinator

I am Vicki and I have worked with young people of all ages and abilities, in formal and informal settings, for a very long time!
I am passionate about inclusion and working with young people who find themselves on the margins of society and so I am absolutely delighted to be working with Hawthorn Education where I am able work with students of all ages from very diverse backgrounds to help them to access the education they deserve. I believe strongly in teaching and learning that is centred around the student to support their individual needs, thus enabling them to achieve their full potential
When I am not teaching you will find me trying to “enjoy” Ironman triathlon which includes swimming, running, and cycling, playing competitive crown green bowls or at the local theatre or football ground.

Lesley Freeman

Specialist Teacher & Central Preston Coordinator

I have been a teacher for 20 years, predominantly in Primary Schools and I believe everyone has a right to education. When I am not teaching, most of my time is taken up with my family and friends. I have two teenage girls who keep me busy. I enjoy taking my two dogs for walks, watching football especially Preston North End, cycling and reading. I also enjoy completing jigsaw puzzles and sewing.

Levi Cunningham

Specialist teacher

I’m Levi and I’m new to Hawthorn Education. I have experience as a Primary School Teacher and I am currently enjoying my new role in one to one tuition. It is a privilege to work here at Hawthorn, where learning is centred around the child to support their individual needs and development. I believe each child can move towards future success and be the best person they can be, given the opportunity and nurturing environment.
When I am not teaching, I love spending time with my family and friends. Although, you will most likely find me running around after my toddler! I also like to keep myself busy by going to the gym, socialising and planning my upcoming wedding. I enjoy going on holiday, especially visiting new countries and experiencing different cultures. My favourite holiday highlight was watching the sunrise on the active volcano Mount Batur, in Bali.

Dr Jim Silsby

Specialist teacher

I am a specialist in Science education, Physics being my flavour of choice, with a degree in Physics with Astrophysics and having recently completed a PhD in physical plasmas (the stuff stars are made of). I taught in the school classroom for five years, and have had a further five years – and counting – of experience as a tutor.

I enjoy board games with a growing collection from many different genres, and I enjoy nothing more than an evening in with some friends playing a board game or Dungeons & Dragons. I also love wild swimming, be it in a river, a lake, or the sea. Those are my steady interests, but I will try just about anything once and enjoy it.

Craig Holden

Specialist teacher

A teacher for many, many years, I particularly enjoy teaching maths and engineering, especially when combined with practical activities. I keep bees and hens, enjoy motorbikes and bicycles, and love taking my dog for very long walks.

Jenny Haygarth

Specialist teacher

I passionately believe in education for everyone. I have described my job with Hawthorn as the best job ever. I get to work with some amazing young people and can focus on what best supports them in their learning. I enjoy reading a variety of non-fiction, novels, autobiographies and poetry; and particularly enjoy writing poetry. With a sense of adventure and a huge desire to travel I chose to teach in International Schools in Asia and Africa. This has given me much more understanding of other cultures and religions, living and working in completely different continents was an amazing experience and I loved the tropical weather! Since returning to the UK, I have spent time volunteering in children’s centres and qualifying as a teacher of crochet.

I also regularly work as a Mountain Leader in the Yorkshire Dales, Lake District and Peak District. My favourite activity is working with young people during their Duke of Edinburgh Award expeditions. I love seeing them engaging with the outdoors; learning new skills and developing their team work but also learning about their own qualities, particularly resilience and perseverance. I live in the country with my family and quite a few pets. I like to spend my time running and cycling in the fells and walking my dog, playing flute in orchestras, singing in choirs and relaxing with a crochet project, when I get time!

Catherine Lambert

Student Support Officer

I have been working for Hawthorn Education for two and a half years now mainly dealing with all things admin. One size teaching does not fit all and during my time here I have seen first hand the difference our passionate and dedicated teachers have made to the lives of the young people they work with.
When I’m not at work most of my time is taken up taxiing around two teenage boys and walking a rather large German Shepherd! I have also just taken up jogging in the hopes of completing a 10 km run at some point this year to prove to myself and my children that you’re never too old to try something new.

Aisha Bangi

Specialist teacher

After many years of teaching, I can honestly say that it is extremely fulfilling to be able to inspire children to unlock their potential. I have come to realise the challenges that we face every day are worth every minute of a child’s positive progression. I want students to know that they have teachers that believe in them!
When I’m not teaching, I am kept busy by my family and friends. Having three boys means we are a football mad household and I find myself watching the boys play constantly. We enjoy hiking, walking, cycling and being outdoors and we are aiming to climb the Three Peaks this year. We like to travel as much as possible and make memories together.
When I am not busy with the family, you will find me in the kitchen. I like to cater in my spare time and trying out wonderful recipes from my growing cookbook collection.
I like to raise money for charities that are close to my family’s heart. My husband and I recently ran the London Marathon, which was one of the most challenging things we have had to do! We are hoping to run the Great North Run this year. Skydiving at 15,000ft for Down’s Syndrome Association was one of the most exhilarating things I have tried and will happily do again. I am an advocate for Down’s Syndrome and making sure all children are treated equally, with respect and have the same opportunities, no matter of their ability. I am raising awareness, alongside my youngest, one smile at a time.

Faiza Member

Specialist teacher

Teaching for me is not only about imparting knowledge but building meaningful and trusting relationships. I’m passionate about helping young people be the best they can and love what we do here at Hawthorn Education. When I’m not teaching, I love to be with my family; my husband and our son. We enjoy taking walks, cycling, but most of all exploring the world and making memories together.
Volunteering is also an important part of my life, where I support and work with vulnerable women and children in our community. I can’t forget, football and food! These play a huge part in my life too, if I’m not cheering on my son from the sidelines, I love to cook and experiment with new recipes!

Tim Milner

Operations Director

I am an experienced teacher and passionate believer in child-led education.  My lead subjects are maths and science but I am also a bit of a techno buff and enjoy incorporating the use of technology to transform learning outcomes.

When not teaching, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading non-fiction books, listening to podcasts, and watching stand-up comedy.  I also like cooking, photography and of course, keeping abreast of new technology.

Caroline Mason

Managing Director

‘I created Hawthorn to fill an important gap in education: to give vulnerable children the attention, support, and learning environment they needed to grow in ability and confidence.  All of the team at Hawthorn share the same passion and drive, and are dedicated to providing a tailored learning approach to each individual student.

My personal time is spent with my large family, which is noisy but fun, in our old farmhouse with a menagerie of animals, sheep, lambs and hens to name a few; not forgetting an energetic collie dog and two rescue cats.’

Rev Angie Letchford

Specialist teacher

It is such a privilege to work with Hawthorn students – they teach me, an educator and therapist – so much about perseverance through their resilience in a broken world. Alongside my vocation and calling to run an Equine Assisted Psychotherapy Centre in Morecambe where I offer private therapy sessions as well as Equine Assisted Learning, for the last three years I have been an ordained Priest in the Church of England and am involved in a wide range of ministries in the church.

Joanna White

Specialist teacher

I qualified as a teacher of Modern Foreign Languages in 1982. I had always been passionate about languages and believed it was a skill everybody should have the opportunity to learn. I taught French, Spanish and German for over 30 years. During that time, in addition to my teaching, I organised many residential trips to France to give my pupils the opportunity to put their skills into practice. I also was part of an initiative to introduce MFL into Primary Schools and spent time in our feeder schools teaching Year 5 and 6 pupils. For many years, I was a mentor to MFL student teachers, which helped me reflect on my own teaching as well as the students’. I believe that lessons should be engaging and Incorporated exciting and engaging activities to achieve student participation and hands-on learning.

In 2017, I decided to leave mainstream teaching to pursue a different role. I began working as a one-to-one tutor for Hawthorn Education. What I most enjoy about this role is the opportunity to be able to tailor my teaching to the individual student’s needs and learning styles.

John Brookes

Specialist teacher

I have been a fully qualified PE teacher since 2007.  My main sport is rugby league which I have played all my life.  I am currently the head coach for the Cadishead Rhinos open-age rugby league team.  I left mainstream teaching in 2018 to set up my own sports coaching business called EdStart.  In my spare time I love to travel, especially to cold countries where I can ski and snowboard!

Sarah Johnson

Specialist teacher

I am passionate about helping children to develop to their full potential.  As an Assistant SENCo I feel it is important to provide a safe, stimulating and fully inclusive environment for all.  My personal time is spent with my wonderful family, often on skiing adventures.  I am blessed with two children and two cats, who keep me entertained.  I love music and can play a variety of instruments.  I have a passion for being active and enjoy sports and the outdoors.