Governor Profiles

Julia Tye

I grew up in Standon and attended Ralph Sadleir school during the years of 1986-1990, although it was a little bit different then!! Having obtained a qualification as a chartered accountant, and then spending a number of years working abroad in Australia, I returned to my roots and now live once again in Standon.

I have four children, my youngest is at Ralph Sadleir and my middle two are at Freman College, with the eldest at University, so I have a personal interest in the Rib Valley Schools consortium, and having been through the system myself I am a great advocate of the three tier system.

My personal interests include playing netball, travelling abroad and socialising with friends and family.

Anne Gorolini

I joined the board of trustees in January 2023 having been in the teaching profession for over twenty-five years. I have taught in schools in Luton and Hertfordshire. I have held a number of leadership positions including that of headteacher and provided a range of leadership support to Hertfordshire schools in a variety of roles.

I work for HFL Education as a District School Effectiveness Adviser for schools in the East of Hertfordshire.

My daughter is on her journey through the three tier lower, middle and upper school system having completed Years 5-8 at Ralph Sadleir. I am delighted to support the school to provide the best education for all its pupils as a trustee.

Sara Sales

I have lived in lovely Puckeridge for over 20 years. My son is currently in Year 9 at Freman College and my daughter, having left Ralph Sadleir 4 years ago, now attends Sixth Form at Freman College. They both attended SPINS then, Roger de Clare so I have been involved in the 3-tier system for several years as a parent.

I have been a primary school teacher (in 4 different schools in Hertfordshire) for 26 years so have gained a lot of experience in working with children and how things are implemented in schools. I now work part time at a school in Hoddesdon and would like to use my experience and knowledge to support Ralph Sadleir and its journey going forward.

Outside of my passion for education, I love playing netball, attending my Pilates classes, going for long walks with my dog and watching Saracens play rugby. I also love to watch my children play sports at the weekends.

Cliff Devonshire

As a tennis coach and an accountant with a background in school finance, I bring a unique perspective to my role as a governor. My experience working in a local charity and a local authority has given me valuable insights into how to support and advocate for our community. I’m deeply invested in the school’s success and am passionate about helping the school grow and strengthen its place within the community. My goal is to ensure that our school remains a vibrant, supportive environment where every student can thrive.

Graham Tanswell

I have lived in Braughing since 2013, previous to this I grew up in a 3 tier system in Harrow, North London. My son has recently started Year 6 at Ralph Sadleir and my daughter is expecting to join him from Jenyns next year. I have spent the past 21 years in the Public Transport sector, I currently oversee all of the surface transport landside and Airside at London Stansted Airport working for National Express. I have a passion for ensuring children get the best out of their education journey giving valuable insights into their careers and their futures.

In my spare time I enjoy first and foremost spending time as a family but also getting out on my mountain bike, I particularly enjoy throwing myself down mountains in Wales attached to my bike!

Liam McDonnell

I have been teaching for over 10 years in two mixed comprehensive secondary schools in London. I am currently an Assistant Principal at a 11-18 school in Chingford and lead the Sixth Form there. During my time as Head of Sixth Form, we have achieved an Outstanding rating from OFSTED and results which have put us in the top 10% of Sixth Forms in the country for progress.

Prior to my current role, I have been a Pastoral Leader, Head of PSHE, Careers Leader and Designated Mental Health Lead. I therefore have a good understanding of leadership in schools across a variety of different areas. Furthermore, I have also had my Masters of Education thesis published in the ‘Teaching History’ educational journal. This has been used to support the training and development of other History teachers. In addition, I have completed by National Professional Qualification in Headship.

Having recently moved to Hertfordshire, I really wanted to work with a local school and am very much looking forward to working to support Ralph Sadleir School moving forward!

Alice Shambrook

I spent the first twelve years of my life living in Puckeridge, during which time I attended Roger de Clare, Ralph Sadleir, and subsequently Freman College. As a result, I am very familiar with the local three-tier education system.

I am currently employed by Hertfordshire County Council within the Educational Psychology Team, while also studying for a degree in Psychology and Counselling. In addition, I hold a Bachelor of Science degree in Crime and Investigative Studies.

Beyond my professional and academic commitments, I enjoy playing, coaching, and watching netball, and I value spending quality time with my family, friends, and my dog.