Governance (ID 1183)

• Sara Fletcher
  Chair of Governors
  Sara Fletcher

  Sara brings over three decades of dedicated experience within the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) sector, underpinned by a robust foundation in both teaching and strategic leadership. Her career spans a diverse range of educational environments, including general further education colleges, community-based learning settings, and specialist provisions. Currently, she serves as the Quality Lead in a specialist setting, where she plays a pivotal role in driving standards and fostering inclusive practices.

  A significant chapter of Sara's career was her eleven-year tenure as Headteacher of a school for pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. During this time, she honed her expertise in therapeutic education and trauma-informed approaches, embedding these principles into whole-school culture and practice. Her leadership was marked by a deep commitment to nurturing resilience, emotional wellbeing, and academic progress among vulnerable learners.

  Sara holds a Master's degree in Consultancy and Leadership, which complements her practical experience with a strong theoretical understanding of change management, team development, and strategic improvement. She is passionate about empowering staff through professional development, coaching, and collaborative working, with a particular focus on building capacity to teach, support, and safeguard learners effectively.

  Her work is driven by a steadfast belief in inclusive education and the holistic development of both students and staff. Sara is known for her thoughtful, values-led approach and her ability to inspire teams to deliver high-quality, compassionate education that meets the complex needs of all learners.

• Jessica Charles
  Staff Governor
  Jessica Charles

  Jessica Charles is a qualified and registered Play Therapist/Specialist with eight years of experience working within the NHS, where she supported children and young people through therapeutic interventions. In March 2025, she brought her expertise into the education sector, joining East Sussex Academy Newhaven as the Engagement Lead.

  Jessica is deeply committed to creating inclusive and supportive environments for students, using a therapeutic and holistic approach to enhance engagement, learning, and emotional wellbeing. Her work focuses on helping students feel safe, understood, and empowered to thrive both academically and personally.

  She is also Thrive Training qualified, which further strengthens her ability to support the mental health and emotional development of children and young people. Jessica is enthusiastic about the positive impact this will have across the academy, and looks forward to continuing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those she works with.