Executive Board

Sue Black 

I am an Assistant Headteacher with responsibility for Curriculum, Assessment, and Maths, as well as a class teacher, a role that keeps me grounded in what matters most: the children. I bring an enthusiastic, child-focused approach to both teaching and leadership, underpinned by a deep commitment to inclusivity and lifelong learning.

Before entering education 23 years ago, I served in the military, an experience that shaped my values of integrity, resilience, and service. My decision to move into teaching came when I became a mother to a daughter with Down syndrome. Watching her navigate mainstream education opened my eyes to the power, and at times, the absence, of truly inclusive practice. That experience continues to fuel my determination to ensure every child, regardless of need, has access to a rich, engaging, and meaningful education.

I am studying for a Level 7 Senior Leadership qualification, a pathway to a Master’s degree and as part of my ongoing commitment to professional growth and reflective leadership. At the heart of my work is a drive to nurture curiosity, confidence, and belonging in every learner.

I am proud to volunteer on the Executive Board, by sharing my experience and perspective, I hope to contribute to a future where inclusion is not just a principle, but a daily lived reality for every child.

Chloe Clarke

I’m an Assistant Headteacher with 18 years of experience working in mainstream education, and I’m passionate about creating inclusive, inspiring learning environments where every child can thrive. I’ve taught across KS1 and KS2 in a range of London schools and currently lead on curriculum, assessment, and professional development. I’m especially interested in how research can help us design better learning and support all children to remember and apply what they’ve learned.

I’m really excited about the opportunity to volunteer with Earley Springs’ Executive Board. Specialist schools like this play a vital role not just for their pupils, but for the wider community too. Being part of something with so much potential to shape lives feels incredibly rewarding, and I can’t wait to be part of Earley Springs journey. 

Joanna Donegan-Edwards

I have dedicated the past 21 years to education and I am currently working as a Vice Principal, line managing the SEND team at my school.  I feel a deep sense of responsibility and passion for ensuring all students receive the best possible support and opportunities.  I firmly believe that every student deserves to flourish and thrive within an environment tailored to their unique needs.  My experience in senior leadership has equipped me with a comprehensive understanding of curriculum planning, policy development, and teaching and learning expertise, all crucial for ensuring a school’s continued success. As a Science specialist I am passionate about ensuring that every child has access to high quality enrichment activities and also role models in a variety of areas.  As a female Physicist in STEM, it is important to show young people that there is a place for them in the STEM workforce and inspire them that they can do and be anything. 

I am excited to be a part of the Earley Springs team and am deeply committed to fostering a supportive and inclusive culture where all students are empowered to reach their full potential. 

jdonegan-edwards@earleyspringsschool.com

Keith Mewes – Deputy Chair

For me, family and community are everything; that sense of belonging is vital, whether it’s within a family or a wider community, we all need to feel connected. As someone with a background as an ex-military professional, and then working at Special Needs (SEMH) boarding school in Kent for over 15 years and then having served as the Principal Instructor at the S.S.B.K. Martial Arts Organisation. I bring a unique perspective. I’m looking forward to joining Earley Springs and contributing to a new community that I hope will feel like a supportive family for the children and their families.

As a father to a neurodivergent daughter with Autism and ADHD, I have a profound personal understanding of how crucial a safe and nurturing educational environment is for all children, particularly those with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). My passion lies in ensuring every child and young person has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

I firmly believe that when children feel secure, loved, and welcomed, they thrive. It’s evident to me that Earley Springs is dedicated to building this very supportive foundation for its students, and I’m eager to contribute to this important work.

Louise Lazell

I’m an educational psychologist experienced in working with children and young people with a range of needs from nursery-age to post-16 in mainstream, specialist and independent settings. I have a particular interest in early years education and play; I believe the early years are critical for children’s development and I advocate for effective pedagogy and play-based learning. I am thrilled to be supporting the team at Earley Springs and excited about the vast opportunities available to children here. Outside of work, I am an animal lover and most of my spare time is taken up with looking after and riding my horse around the Kent countryside.