Julia Poole – Centre Manager Gateshead East & Centre Director Chester le Street
I graduated from Newcastle University with a bachelor’s degree in English Language and Linguistics in 2011. During my degree I worked with teachers of English as a second language as well as studying child language development.
Since graduating I focused my attention on a career within people management. I have gained experience managing a range of teams and departments within several large corporate companies.
I started as Centre Manager for Kip McGrath Gateshead East in January 2018. I spend my days running the busy centre alongside the Centre Director, supporting and developing our talented team as well as taking care of all marketing opportunities. In January 2020 I also opened the centre at Chester le Street working alongside Carol.
Sue Wood – Senior Finance Administrator
I have a strong background in the finance and customer service industry, having worked for a high street bank for almost twenty years.
Prior to joining the team, I worked as a PA to the Head Teacher of a large, local Primary School for ten years. I am also a fully qualified Teaching Assistant and a volunteer driver for the Daft As A Brush Charity.
I am mum to my 21 year old son, Nathan, who likes nothing better than keeping me on my toes!
In my role I cover a variety of tasks, but I very much enjoy meeting all of the children and families on a daily basis. I am here to support the Centre Directors and all customers with any financial queries.
Leo Nelson – Maths Tutor
I completed my degree at Newcastle University and my PGCE at Durham University. I started my teaching career in 1997 and over the years I have worked in both independent and state schools teaching from Key Stage 2 to Key Stage 5.
My two main teaching areas are mathematics and music and I have managed departments in both subjects. In addition to the academic teaching I am a fully qualified piano teacher and accompanist working throughout the region.
I started working for Kip in September 2017 and have not looked back!
Claire Walker – Senior Tutor
I am a senior tutor at Kip McGrath and have been part of the team for over 4 years, following a successful career in several local schools. Starting Kip as a part-time tutor, I have progressed to senior tutor with increased management responsibilities, assisting in monitoring planning and helping new tutors.
My favourite aspect of the job is when a student has a ‘lightbulb’ moment, realising something isn’t as hard as they first thought it would be.
I believe I am calm, patient and a determined member of our team and this translates into my teaching. I aim to provide the very best education for all students in a calm and organised manner every lesson.
Andrew Whiteley – Maths and English Tutor
I obtained a BA Honours Degree in theology and philosophy from Durham University in 1978, and taught Religious Education at St Joseph’s Academy in Hebburn. I also acted as Spiritual Growth Co-ordinator at the school, as well as being mentor for student RE teachers.
I retired in 2015, but I have a great interest and concern for young people’s learning, and I’m delighted that working at Kip McGrath gives me the opportunity to help them develop the skills they need – not only for future careers, but as human beings with a full enjoyment and experience of life.
Corrina Clarke – Tutor
I have been a tutor with Kip for over 3 years now. My favourite part of the job is helping students to achieve and learn new skills. When a child grasps a concept or skill they have been struggling with is one of the most rewarding moments for me, witnessing the progress that I am honoured to be part of.
I have often been described as a positive, caring and honest person - skills that equip me in every aspect of this role. I also enjoy spending time with my friends and family, trying out new and exciting activities. I am excited to be part of Kip McGrath Gateshead East and Chester le Street as it continues to grow.
Claire Jennings – Tutor
I am a highly experienced teacher, with over 27 years of in school teaching experience. I have extensive knowledge of the year 6 curriculum and SAT's expectations. My true passion lies in maths, having completed a certificate in Mastering Mathematics at Plymouth University in 2017. I continue to expand my knowledge with regular CPD.
I work part time at the Gateshead East centre alongside my full time role in school. My evenings at Kip are a joy as it is a pleasure to work with the children and help them succeed.
Carl Black - Senior Tutor
In 2014 I qualified with a BA (Hons) in Primary Education at the University of Sunderland. I have since taught across the entire primary phase, and also have experience in KS3. I now work full time at Kip delivering tuition as well as initial assessments and management responsibilities. I have lots of experience of the statutory assessment process having carried our SATs for a number of years.
I am also a qualified SENDCo having completed the National Award for Special Educational Needs at the University of Sunderland. I am also currently undergoing a Masters in Education in order to further develop my pedagogy. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience of supporting children of all abilities and dispositions.
I love the challenge of enabling all learners to achieve their full potential and enjoying working with a range of age groups in my sessions.
Rachel Walmsley
I completed my PGCE at the University of Newcastle in 2006 and have spent 12 years teaching in a variety of primary schools across Gateshead. In addition to being a class teacher, I have worked in learning support, intervention and pupil premium roles.
Away from teaching, I like to keep active and can be found swimming, cycling and running.
At Kip McGrath, I tutor at primary level teaching English and Maths. I am enjoying the opportunity to support students in a small group environment where they can gain confidence and thrive.