I joined the team at Beacon Hill Academy in October 2018 and worked there until July 2022, when I progressed to a role within the Dudley Academies Trust Central Team. I started my time at Beacon Hill Academy as Corporate Administrator, a role which allowed me to work closely with senior leadership to manage key operational processes, Trust-wide communications, and compliance – often acting as an interface between operational issues and IT solutions we could put in place.
I later stepped into the role of Acting IT Technician (covering a colleague’s absence), where I provided hands-on assistance with systems administration, staff training, and third-party coordination. This blend of roles gave me a unique perspective on how IT can be aligned with strategic goals, and laid the foundation for my move into more technical and project-focused positions.
Projects
More information about each project is coming soon!
During my time at Beacon Hill Academy, I had the opportunity to lead and support a range of impactful digital projects, many of which laid the groundwork for wider adoption across the Trust. Key projects include, but are not limited to:
COVID-19 Distance Learning Rollout
Led the rapid deployment of Microsoft Teams for remote learning during the COVID-19 pandemic, enabling continued high-quality education delivery. Supported staff training, onboarding, and the integration of Microsoft SDS for seamless class management.
Distance Learning Tracking Systems
Developed tracking solutions to monitor student engagement, submission of work, and online attendance during periods of remote learning, allowing pastoral teams to intervene and support learners effectively.
Trust-wide Bespoke E-Certificate System
Designed and built an e-certificate generation system to recognise and reward student achievement remotely. This was later adopted across the Trust.
Behaviour and Extra-Curricular Tracking Platform
Developed a custom web-based solution to monitor pupil behaviour and participation in extra-curricular activities, streamlining reporting and enabling data-driven intervention strategies.
Parental Engagement App
Supported the deployment and promotion of a mobile app to improve communication with parents and carers, enhancing engagement and information accessibility.
Online Booking Systems
Implemented and managed digital booking systems for Parent/Carer Evenings, COVID-19 testing appointments, and other key academy events, improving administrative efficiency and user experience.
ClassCharts Pilot
Coordinated the pilot rollout of ClassCharts for behaviour management and seating plans, gathering feedback and supporting training prior to Trust-wide implementation.
Academy Website Refresh
Led a full refresh of the academy website, improving design, accessibility, and content management to better represent the school’s values and support stakeholder engagement.
Social Media Overhaul and Management
Rebranded and managed the academy’s social media presence, increasing reach and engagement across multiple platforms.
Automated Email Signature Provisioning
Created a PowerShell-based solution to standardise and automate email signature deployment across staff accounts. This solution was later expanded and rolled out across the Trust.