Case Study 1: Establishing Cross-Sector Collaboration
Advocating for education in a clinical environment
Challenge
As Head Teacher at Great Ormond Street Hospital/University College Hospital for 13 years, I navigated through the leadership of 5 different CEOs and 5 Chief Nurses while advocating for educational needs in an environment where the school staff (50) was significantly outnumbered by hospital staff (3,500).
Approach
- Presented compelling, evidence-based needs assessment to the Trust Board.
- Built cross-disciplinary relationships with clinical stakeholders.
- Maintained consistent educational vision despite frequent executive leadership changes.
Results
- Secured commitment for a new school within the Children’s Cancer Centre, due to open 2027.
- Drove design process resulting in a space nearly triple the size of existing facilities.
- Positioned education at the heart of the hospital with ground-floor accessibility.
“Through persistent advocacy and clear vision, Jayne ensured that education remained central to our holistic care model, despite the many competing priorities in our hospital environment.”
Hospital Senior Leader and Consultant
Case Study 2: Enabling and Empowering Leaders
Building a self-sustaining leadership ecosystem
Situation
In 2023, an unexpected brain bleed forced me to take a four-month leave of absence.
Context
- Implemented strategic recruitment practices over years.
- Recognized and developed individual team member strengths.
- Established clear roles and responsibilities within the leadership team.
Results
- Seamless continuation of expert educational provision during my absence.
- Team confidence so high they welcomed external inspection (“we want OFSTED to come now so you don’t have to worry”).
- “Right people in the right seats” ecosystem functioning independently.
“The mark of true leadership isn’t what happens when you’re present, but what thrives when you’re absent. Our team didn’t just maintain—we continued to excel because of the systems and confidence instilled in us.”
Assistant Headteacher
“Jayne’s leadership and coaching style gently builds your confidence. She follows your own interests and strengths, allowing you to become the best version of yourself rather than a pre-defined idea of what a leader should be.”
Deputy Headteacher
Case Study 3: Implementing an Inclusive School Culture
Transforming a struggling school into a thriving community
Challenge
In 2004, I was appointed Headteacher of Childs Hill School, a school causing “significant concern” and requiring comprehensive cultural transformation.
Approach
- Prioritised community engagement and accessibility (playground presence daily).
- Addressed basic needs (breakfast programs, uniform provision).
- Elevated support staff roles and implemented targeted professional development.
Results
- School transitioned from “significant concern” to “good with outstanding features”.
- Established high-aspiration culture celebrating community diversity.
- Created enduring positive relationships that continue 14+ years after my departure.
“The transformation at Childs Hill wasn’t just academic—it was cultural. By listening to ‘the history whispered in the very fabric of the school walls,’ Jayne helped us rediscover our identity and purpose.”
Sally, Long-time Staff Member
Impact Metrics
- 13 Years at GOSH/UCH
- 7 Years transforming Childs Hill
- 3x Larger new educational space secured
Expertise Areas
- Educational Leadership
- Change Management
- Cross-Sector Collaboration
- Team Development
- Inclusive Culture Building
Additional Testimonials
“The opera in classrooms, street dance clubs, and focus on both physical and mental health created a vibrant learning environment that staff and students still benefit from today.”
Sarah Learning Mentor
“What impressed me most was seeing education brought to the forefront of the hospital environment, ensuring children’s learning continued regardless of their health challenges.”
Clinical Staff Member, GOSH
“The leadership development approach created a resilient team that could withstand any challenge—even the unexpected absence of our head teacher.”
School Staff Member