Meet Our Staff

Gavin Taylor - Headmaster

Having been a member of staff here since 2008, I know Lockers Park well and am delighted to lead the school.

I have held a range of roles from Form Teacher to Head of Boarding and from Head of Pastoral to Deputy Head at Lockers Park, the latter a position I held for six years. Prior to that I was educated in Magdalen College and taught in Haresfoot Prep, which is now part of Berkhamsted School.

Passing on knowledge and making sure all boys have the opportunity to succeed in their chosen area is something I am extremely passionate about. I have been lucky enough to pursue my passion for rugby; I played in the Northampton Academy until 18 when I went to the University in Wales in Bangor and was selected for North Wales. My teachers and mentors played a huge role in giving me the confidence to play, and it’s important to me that I pass this on to others. As well as Games, I also love to teach Maths and Critical Thinking.

I live within the school grounds with my wife Nichola, daughters, Sookie and Fleur, and our golden Labrador, Honey, and enjoy family walks and cooking in the great outdoors.

Noeleen Corrigan - Deputy Head

I am proud to be Deputy Head at Lockers Park. I have a strong and varied teaching career, and have enjoyed roles spanning Head of Maths to Head of PHSE, a Law, English and Business teacher, and a Commercial Law University Lecturer. I have even taught self-defense, putting my skills as a kick-boxer to good use! I have a BA (Hons) in Legal and Business Studies, LLM in European and Comparative Law, and a PGCE.

I am well known amongst pupils for my love of reading, so it’s no surprise to them that my favourite event of the school year is World Book Day. I love the buzz around reading and enjoy an excuse to discuss my favourite texts with pupils, and of course discover some new ones.

Tim Dawes - Director of Studies

I attended Swanbourne House and Bedford School as a boy, and after reading Agricultural Business Management at Wye Agricultural College, and a spell working in the wine industry, I completed my PGCE Primary at Roehampton Institute of Education.

I joined Lockers Park in 2006 as Head of Geography, taking on the Director of Studies role in 2015. My job is really varied from one day to the next, and my favourite part is seeing great teaching and the effect it has on the children. The passion that the team of staff here imbue in the children is amazing.

Outside the classroom I can occasionally be found on the games pitch, in particular coaching cricket. Out of school I have a passion for fly fishing, which needs to be conducted in complete silence, always a bonus after a busy day…

Dean Martin - Head of Operations

Belinda Chassebi - Class Teacher

I joined Lockers Park in 2021 and immediately felt its sense of community, with supportive staff and engaged, happy and energetic boys.  Having worked in primary schools for over twenty years, developing a passion for teaching English, I decided to change direction and embark on a new adventure at Lockers Park. My first three years leading Year 1 in Little Lockers marked a halcyon start to my career here and gave me happy memories that will last a lifetime. Since then, I have become a dedicated member of the dynamic English department, aiming to inspire boys from Years 5 to 8 to broaden their love of the English language and literature. Outside the classroom, I play a key role in Safeguarding and I am a member of the Pastoral Committee.

Jamie-Lee Colwill - Reception Teacher

I studied at Bedfordshire University where I achieved my BA Honours degree in Early Years.

Lockers Park is a tight-knit community; it is a school that truly builds strong, caring relationships with the children and ensures they experience the best opportunities throughout their education.

My favourite lessons are our Nature & the Environment classes.

“I love to talk to Mrs Colwill because she’s so kind”, Sammy, Lockers Park pupil.

Ciaran Connors - Maths Teacher

Sarah Diggory - Head of Art

I joined Lockers Park in 2005, and have held roles that reflect my diverse interests and strengths, from Head of Computing to Pre-Prep teacher. In my role as Head of Art, I love encouraging children to be innovative thinkers, to inspire their creativity, and to take chances in a safe, rewarding environment. My BA (Hons) in English Studies and Fine Art is put to good use with our fantastic pupils!

The Lockers Park boys are always impressed when I tell them about my Black Belt in karate. I enjoy travelling (my family took a US road trip through 22 different states), I have been a Girl Scout Leader, and during the pandemic I created a ‘fun things for kids to do’ website, with the help of my three daughters.

George, a Year 5 pupil says, “Mrs Diggory’s lessons are always fun.”

Jack Doyle - Director of Sport and Assistant House Master

I attended Lockers Park as a pupil (2006-2008) and it is a real privilege to now be the Director of Sport, as well as the Assistant Housemaster and a Year 8 Form Tutor.

I spent 5 years at Shrewsbury School and returned to Lockers Park in 2013 as a Gap student. I studied Teaching and Learning at Middlesex University and graduated with a First class honours degree and began my IPGCE at Buckingham University, all whilst teaching at Lockers.

Outside school, you will usually find me on a cricket pitch representing my boyhood club Harpenden CC or around the country for the MCC. Away from Cricket, I enjoy Golf, Swimming or anything to do with the outdoors.

Lauren Edmunds - EAL Teacher

I started my career in dance, teaching at Tring Park School for the Performing Arts for 15 years. I then followed my passion for Drama, and have the best job in the world as a teacher of Drama and English at Lockers Park, where I have been since 2001.

I have seen first-hand the benefits of Drama in many boys. One of my favourite moments was in a school play when a shy boy forgot his lines. He stopped, took a deep breath, composed himself and then performed his lines with confidence. It was a proud moment for me as his training stepped in.

Producing the Junior Play and seeing the joy it brings to both boys and parents is the highlight of my year. I enjoy preparing children for LAMDA examinations, which are recognised worldwide, gives boys a goal to work towards and a sense of achievement. English and Drama are closely linked and this inspired me to qualify as an EAL (English as an Additional Language) teacher.

Having had a son attend Lockers Park, I have been both parent and teacher and have experienced the wonderful opportunities which Lockers Park offers.

Jane Forshaw - Class Teacher

I have been teaching at Lockers Park since 2009—a testament to just how much I love the school’s wonderful community. I’m a Form Tutor for Year 3 and my specialist teaching subjects are English and History. One event I encourage new Lockers Park families to attend in particular is Lockers Got Talent; there are surprises and shocks every year! When I am not teaching, I enjoy going to music festivals.

Oliver Golding - Director of Music

I am privileged to have been Director of Music at Lockers Park since September 2022. Having completed my music degree at Sheffield University, I faced a choice: embarking on a performance career or heading down the teaching route – I have been richly rewarded for choosing the latter!

There is an unquestionable sense of energy and community as you enter the Lockers Park grounds. The boys are creative, inquisitive and determined – this lends itself very well to my subject and to the wide range of co-curricular musical activities and events that take place here.

Outside school, I relish my time as a family man, bringing up my two young daughters, but still enjoy performing in the very occasional concert on orchestral percussion, when time allows.

Anthony Hobson - Head of History

As Head of History my favourite lessons to teach are those that leave the boys especially wanting to learn more, even after the lesson has finished. Typically, these include blood and gore or strange and humorous events and circumstances.

As a pupil I studied at Shrewsbury School, and then went on to earn my qualifications at the Royal Agricultural University, Buckingham University and the Open University.

I am also passionate about sport, especially cricket, having played Minor Counties for Staffordshire for a number of years. I have been lucky enough to tour several countries whilst representing the Marylebone Cricket Club as a player and coach.

Ansar Iqbal - Head of Science

I have been fortunate in being Head of Science at Lockers Park since 2014. Studying at Royal Holloway University, I gained a BSc, going on to become manager at a large retail company before gaining my teaching qualification at St Mary’s University. Working at a variety of secondary schools has nurtured my passion for teaching, which inspired me to complete a Masters in teaching and learning at Cambridge University.

I like to keep fit and healthy through rock climbing and I love nothing more than setting off on my bike for new adventures; only my ‘Big Bang’ experience put a temporary stop to this!

Teaching at Lockers Park is immensely rewarding, mostly because we have a practical led curriculum in Science; it is great to see the boys using experiments to explore concepts with enthusiasm and delight. One of the undoubted highlights at Lockers Park has to be our trips to Iceland which have been a huge success and truly inspiring experiences for pupils and staff alike.

“Mr Iqbal is strict but very fair and he always encourages me. I’m glad he’s my form tutor.” Year 7 pupil

“Mr Iqbal is not only a genius in the Science Lab, but also quite the kindest person too. He takes time to seek out those who need help.” Year 7 pupil

Danielle McGee - Head of Learning Support & SENCO

Steve McHugh - Sports Coach

I developed a love of sport from an early age. At 17 years old I competed for England in cross country running and the steeple chase. I competed in the World Championships as a Junior, and represented my running club at the Olympic Stadium in Athens. My passion for sport extends into coaching; I have been coaching sport full-time for nearly two decades, and enjoy coaching football and cricket at Lockers Park. I am also the Head Coach at Berkhamsted Raiders Football Club. I enjoy helping children develop their skills; I always say that it’s good to win, but really it’s all about becoming better players, making friends, dealing with tough times, and developing mental strength.

Every time I enter the main gates and drive up to Lockers Park, I get a special feeling – it really is an impressive school. The grounds are amazing, the community is friendly, and the afternoon teas are a treat!

Lucy Miller - Year 1 Teacher & Little Lockers Co-Ordinator

I have been teaching our youngest children in Little Lockers since 2015. This was the year that the Pre-Prep was established so I have been lucky to watch it grow into a thriving, happy little corner of Lockers Park. I completed my initial teacher training in Manchester, then after teaching for a few years, I completed an MA in Education at Warwick, focusing on Early Years.

Even after teaching Early Years children for over 26 years, each day bring new surprises—no day is ever the same. There are so many reasons why Lockers Park is special, but I think it is truly wonderful how the children bounce into school in the morning with an energy and excitement that lasts all day. I particularly enjoy the Little Lockers performances; something unexpected always happens to make these so memorable—watching the disco dancing nativity shepherds is an experience that I will never forget!

“Mrs Miller is funny and lovely”,  Year 2 pupil

Lucy Neale - Head of Drama & Assistant Head Co-Curricular

My name is Lucy Neale, and I’m the Head of Drama and Assistant Head of Co-Curricular. This is my second year at Lockers Park, and I absolutely love being part of this wonderful community, so much so that my son has just started in Reception and is already enjoying every moment!

Before joining Lockers Park, I spent twelve years as Head of Drama at Edge Grove School, and I’ve also taught at HABS, Belmont, and a school in Milton Keynes, gaining a rich mix of teaching experiences along the way.

Outside of school life, I’m happiest when I’m spending time with my son and going on adventures together, skiing, watching TV, enjoying a trip to the theatre, catching up with friends,  or walking our dog Buster along the beach near our family caravan in Norfolk, our favourite place to escape to during the holidays.

Qualifications:
BA Joint Honors Education and Drama, PGCE, QTS, NPQML, Microsoft Advanced educator.

Lucy Newman - Boarding Houseparent, Teacher, & Assistant Head Pastoral

I joined Lockers Park in 2017 after a successful stint as a professional golfer on the Ladies European Tour, where I competed in the British and US Opens, among other professional events around the globe. I attended St Albans School for Girls and went on to complete a BA Hons degree in Applied Golf Management Studies at the University of Birmingham and a PGCE at the University of Hertfordshire.

I am Assistant Head Pastoral, a Boarding Houseparent, and a Year 3 Teacher, so my days are certainly full!

Ryan Newman - Boarding Houseparent, Maths Teacher

I remember playing against Lockers Park in sports fixtures as a pupil of Heath Mount and Haileybury schools, and was delighted to join the school as a member of staff in 2019. I am a Maths and Games Teacher, a Year 4 Form Tutor, and a Boarding Houseparent with my wife Lucy. I enjoyed a career as a PGA Golf professional and Hertfordshire County Golf Coach, before following my passion for teaching children and gaining a PGCE with Distinction, to become a teacher.

What I find wonderful at Lockers Park is that, because we’re a small school, I know each pupil really well and can understand what makes them tick.

Year 4 pupil, says “I enjoy Mr Newman’s face-palm jokes and he always makes me happy.”

Sir Isaac Newton 2.0 - Bearded Dragon

I am Sir Isaac Newton, the school’s bearded dragon; Isaac for short. I reside in the Senior Science Lab. When I’m not basking on the branch in my vivarium, I am sitting with the children and learning all about Science. I love to have my chin stroked and enjoy socialising. I am happy when the children feed me crickets and mealworms as they are my favourites but I’m a good “Beardie” and eat my greens too. I look forward to school holidays as that’s when I take a vacation, staying in a local Hertfordshire town or village, spending time with an accommodating Lockers Park family.

Kerry O'Brien - Head of English

I am delighted to be the new Head of English at Lockers Park. Before assuming this role, I was Second in Charge of a large English Department at Saracens High School, Barnet. Previously, I taught English at Rickmansworth School, Ashlyns School in Berkhamsted, and Future’s Academy in Watford. I have a strong track record of supporting students to reach their full potential, with extensive experience in adaptive learning, EAL, and reading intervention programmes.

I hold an MA (Hons) in English Language and Literature from the University of Edinburgh. I completed my PGCE in 2015 and subsequently began my teaching career. Prior to teaching, I spent more than 20 years working as a consultant on major fundraising projects for charities, including the NSPCC and UNICEF.

I have previously enjoyed triathlons, netball, and snowboarding. These days my main passions are cold-water swimming, reading, and spending time with my dog and family out in nature.

Charles Phillips - Head of French

I joined Lockers Park as a fresh-faced, recently qualified teacher late in the 20th century, still reeling from the Spice Girls breaking up and panicking like everyone else that the Y2K bug would soon destroy the universe. Happily, I was armed with cutting edge CD, OHP and VHS technology so in all events le monde was already mon huître as the new Head of French at this unique school.

I now have active roles within the Boarding House, in the Music Department, on the Games pitches, running the chess team, organising termly debates, and coordinating the truly extraordinary ‘Lockers Got Talent’ and ‘Strictly Come Lockers’ festivals of joy each year.

Running the daily Chapel services, I help boys from all faiths learn to recognize the unity of man and religion. The French Room has become the ‘no hands-up zone’ where boys are free to join in enthusiastically and energetically, hopefully building a lifelong love of all things linguistic.

I can safely say that what you will discover as our most special quality is the boys’ and teachers’ love of diversity and character. The all-boys environment encourages a never-ending thirst for humour, learning and joie de vivre. Vienne la nuit, sonne l’heure, les jours s’en vont je demeure.

“Mr Phillips has a new lesson idea every day, making class exciting. But his jokes are terrible.” Year 8 pupil.

Martin Phillips - Director of Outdoor Learning & Head of Design Technology

Emily Pizzey - Class Teacher

I first joined Lockers Park as a student on placement many years ago, and joined as a qualified teacher in 2013. I teach a variety of subjects to the Year 4 and 5 boys, am a form teacher and part of the games team.

My advice to children starting at Lockers Park is to embrace school life fully and remember to tuck your shirt in!

My favourite Lockers Park event is the Swimming Gala, where the whole school comes together to swim at the end of a busy year. And my favourite pudding is chocolate sponge with lashings of chocolate custard.

Daisy Roberts - Year 2 Teacher

— Sebastian, Lockers Park pupil

Corrina Rogers - Head of Maths & Assistant Head Academic

Daniel Saunders - Head of Philosophy, Religion & Ethics

As Head of Classics I enjoy re-enacting gladiatorial events at a colosseum with our pupils and helping them dive into the stories, myths and civilisations of the ancient world. Perhaps what makes me most proud is that pupils leave my lessons with a command of Latin; a language that is a real privilege to teach and learn.

I studied Classical Studies at the University of Wales, Trinity Saint David and achieved my PGCE at Sussex University. When I’m not teaching you can find me indulging my passion for film and cinema.

Snakespeare - Corn Snake

I am the resident corn snake at Lockers Park, living in the Junior Science Lab. I am four years old and have been with the school since I was a little snakelet. I adore watching the children working; sometimes they let me join in their lessons and often I’m the star as they learn all about me and how I’ve adapted to my surroundings. I look forward to my mouse for dinner once a week which I devour in one go. I love nothing more than seeing new families visit the school and ask to meet me. I so enjoy it when one of our families takes me home to visit for the holidays.

Linda Taylor - Head of Learning Support & SENCO - Maternity Cover

Rosie Turvil - Head of PSHE

Leanne Whitehead - Art Teacher, Teaching Assistant and Assistant House Mistress

I joined Lockers Park in 2008, working at first with the youngest pupils, and now working predominantly with our Year 5 and 6 pupils.

Working at Lockers Park is special. Having a small, friendly and family-orientated environment gives the opportunity for staff to get to know each and every pupil, to appreciate their unique personalities, to help them to thrive and ultimately ensure that they thoroughly enjoy their time at Lockers Park.

Sara Bull - EAL Co-Ordinator

Memphis Foster - Little Lockers Teaching Assistant

I support the teachers in our Little Lockers Pre-Prep, and love helping the children to learn and play. I am studying for my Level 3 qualification in childcare and education and plan to study at university alongside my work, in my journey to become a teacher.

Perhaps it’s because I come from a big family and I have lots of siblings, I have always aspired to teach.

What’s special about Lockers Park is that it’s a lovely, small community, where everyone looks after one other.

I update the Little Lockers Instagram account, to help our parents see the fun learning experiences that their boys have.

Nicky Kaleniuk - Teaching Assistant

Michael Phipps - Learning Support Assistant

I have been supporting children in education for 15 years, starting my career at a local state school before joining Lockers Park in 2023. Currently, I work as a one-to-one and class Teaching Assistant in Little Lockers.

As a qualified Forest School Leader, I find Lockers Park to be the perfect setting for outdoor learning. I love how the boys are encouraged to fully utilise the amazing grounds throughout the year.

Aside from being a big fan of the school food and afternoon tea, my favourite times of the year are the sports events, especially the whole school sports day and the swimming gala.

Carol Sheard - Learning Support Assistant

I joined Lockers Park in 2021 and quickly realised what an amazing team of staff there is here. Everyone welcomed me as part of that team from day one, and I see that happen every time a new pupil joins us too. I provide one-to-one support to a pupil here, and take great satisfaction in watching him and our other pupils develop and grow in confidence.

Originally from Wales, I have a passion for Welsh rugby.

Catriona Angel - School Nurse

As School Nurse I am part of the superb team that cares for our school community. Lockers Park is a lovely environment to work in. The role is really rewarding and there’s never a dull moment, working in a school full of energetic boys. Alongside my role as School Nurse, I also work with Public Health England helping research the effectiveness of the COVID vaccine.

Rebecca Chaplin - Head of Marketing & Admissions

With over 20 years of experience in education, including time as a Deputy Head, I bring a deep understanding of school life and community engagement to my role in marketing. My early passions for ballet, singing and dance led me to earn a coveted place at the Royal Ballet School’s Summer School at White Lodge – an experience that instilled in me a lifelong appreciation for creativity and discipline. In 2024, I embarked on a new career path in marketing and successfully completed the AMCIS Diploma in Schools Marketing. I now work closely with the Senior Leadership Team and Governing Body to strengthen communication and promote the school’s distinctive ethos. Drawing on my background in teaching, I aim to combine insight, empathy and enthusiasm to ensure that every aspect of the school’s story is shared with authenticity and pride.

Ana Doyle - Office Manager & Events

I work in the school office, and enjoy the busy, bustling environment that reflects an active, thriving school. Between taking phone calls from parents to helping a pupil find his PE kit, the day flies by. From the moment you first walk through the door you will know we are a very special school; our boys are full of happiness, eager to learn and try new things, and the staff caring and always willing to go the extra mile. We are more than a school; we are a community.

Deborah Duckworth - Matron

Gemma Eeles - IT Technical Support

Starting in 2024, I will be joining Lockers Park as the new ICT Technician. My role will involve handling all IT-related tasks, answering any questions, and ensuring that our IT systems run smoothly.

The community here is incredibly welcoming, so don’t hesitate to say hello. The lunches are fantastic too! Outside of work, you might find me enjoying music, crocheting, or solving Rubik’s Cubes.

Faith Eliot - Catering Manager

I joined Lockers Park in 2016 and am passionate about the food we offer our pupils. I regularly chat to children and staff to ensure that our menus are enjoyed by all, and pupils have regular input into the menus via the School Council. I am proud to have reduced the sugar, salt and oil levels in our food and drink provision, as well as introducing more wholegrains, fibre and vegetables (although the children may not have noticed this thanks to my ‘hidden veg’ recipes!).

I am always keen to use responsible local suppliers where possible. This is not only to reduce our carbon footprint but also to support local businesses. I am proud of our Food Hygiene rating at the highest level of 5, by Environmental Health officers.

I have 15 years’ experience in the catering industry, specifically catering for children within the last 10 years and hold qualifications: Diet and Nutrition Diploma; NVQ level 3 in Advanced Cooking; Level 2 Certificate in Food Allergy Safety; Level 3 Supervisor Health Hygiene Certificate; Certificate in Nutrition for Children and Adolescents; Diploma in Eating Disorder Awareness. I am also a Nutritional Adviser for Child and Brain Development and Child Weight Management.

Claire Hampton - Secretary, Head’s PA & Admissions

I joined Lockers Park in 2015 as Personal Assistant to the Headmaster and School Secretary having worked at Harrow School’s HR Department for 14 years. What struck me when I first arrived here was the size of the school; being a smaller prep school is what makes Lockers Park special and it has a real community feel about it. My favourite event of the year is the final Prize Giving at the end of the academic term; a chance to wish our Year 8 pupils good luck in their senior school, to share their memories during their time with us and feel proud of their achievements.

Sian Pullen - Administrative Assistant

I work in the school office alongside Ana and have been here for a year. Working in a school environment within an admin role has always been something I have wanted to do and I couldn’t have been luckier to get a job at such an amazing school.

Lockers Park is such a friendly and welcoming place to work and I love meeting and helping the boys when they come into the office – although I am still learning names! I have 2 children aged 12 and 3 which take up all my spare time when I’m not at Lockers Park.

Jo Rollini - Day Matron

John Timmons - Head of Maintenance

Hi, my name is John and I have worked at Lockers Park School as the Head of Maintenance since 2002. With 23 acres including multiple sports pitches, an astro-turf, a swimming pool and tennis courts, I have my work cut out for me.

I have always been a creative person. The sort of child that always took his toys apart to see how they worked. What I love about my job is every day is different. I’m not really the sort of person who sits still for long. When I’m not mowing the lawns, clipping hedges or changing light bulbs, I love riding my bike and taking my dog for long walks.

Christian Tivey - Graduate Boarding Assistant

Sarah Wright - Bursar's Assistant

Freddie Howard - Junior Staff

Alex Leith - Junior Staff

Teddie Sherwin - Junior Staff

Charles Snowdon - Junior Staff

Katie Clemmow - Piano, Oboe and Recorder Teacher

I have taught Music at Lockers Park since 2001. I won a scholarship to the Royal Academy of Music and went on to pursue a freelance career as an oboist, playing with all the major London orchestras, including the London Symphony, London Philharmonic, Philharmonia, BBC Symphony, Academy of St Martin’s and English Chamber Orchestras. I have played chamber music with the Nash Ensemble, and am a member of London Winds. As a member of the London Mozart Players for nearly 20 years, I have been active in education work, visiting many schools. My teaching experience on both the oboe and piano spans over 40 years.

Music lessons are about having fun for life, and I tell my pupils how lucky they are to have the chance to learn an instrument! Lockers Park is special, because all departments take a strong interest in each other, with the effect that it a very strongly knit community, to the huge benefit of the boys.

Derek Hannigan - Clarinet Teacher

I studied at the Royal Irish Academy and The Guildhall School of Music and Drama, and as well as teaching clarinet to the Lockers Park boys, I am currently the Principal Clarinet Player at the BBC Concert Orchestra, the Section Principal at the English National Ballet, the Sub Principal Clarinet and the Principle Bass Clarinet for the City of London Sinfonia. My love of music certainly keeps me busy!

I started teaching at Lockers Park in 2010; the school has a strong music tradition, and I enjoy the caring nature of the school and the interesting and talented people who work there.

Liam McCloud - Percussion Teacher

Since joining Lockers Park in 2018 I am proud that our drum pupils have achieved 100% pass rate in graded exams. I enjoy leading the Samba Club, a special group for Year 7 and 8 drummers. They play Rio carnival parade music and perform at the Summer Concerts.

I trained at the London College of Music and I enjoy a successful performing career alongside my teaching.

Karin Nash - Violin Teacher

Joseph Ryan - Brass Teacher

I teach the French horn, trumpet, cornet, trombone, euphonium and tuba at Lockers Park! I studied my BMus and MMus at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama and enjoy a varied playing career with orchestras both in the UK and abroad as well as theatres in the West End. In my spare time I like to garden and cook on the BBQ.

Allan Simpson - Guitar Teacher

Graham Wili - Singing Teacher

Scott Menzies - Minibus Driver

Sandro Musiu - Minibus Driver

Paul Wilson - School Minibus Driver