The Galaxy Trust

Darren Stephens
Communications Manager

I have been working in educational IT for nearly two decades. In my role as Communications Manager, I am responsible for helping to inform parents, carers, the local community and the wider public about the Galaxy Trust, each academy within the Trust and, of course, to celebrate the work and achievements of the pupils. I produce the newsletters for each school and keep the websites and our social media platforms up to date. I enjoy running a club that's lets children explore their creativity in Minecraft.

Desserri Thomas

Finance Officer

I attended Temple Hill school myself as a child as well as my children coming here . I was originally a parent volunteer before working in different roles within the school.  I now work as a Finance Officer and enjoy the variety of this position.

Mikala Jeffery

Finance Manager

I have recently joined the Galaxy Trust and am excited to be part of the team. I am passionate about the work that I do and doing it well has always been important to me. In order to be as effective as I can, I have taken qualifications that have enabled me to have a deeper understanding of financial management. I have completed a 3 year accounts course and have achieved the Certificate in School Business Management. I have over 20 years finance experience which includes working for the Local Authority supporting primary and secondary schools around the County.

Sue Kirby

Executive Assistant to the Executive Headteacher

As a recent addition team I am looking forward to the next phase of my career working within The Galaxy Trust.  Since graduating with a BA Hons in Business Management I have gained experience across both Public and Private sector in a variety of roles, including IT, Management and Business Development.  I feel very privileged to now be working alongside such a dedicated, hardworking team of colleagues and hope my diligence and skills can help with the continued smooth running of the Trust. 

Claire Coldwell

Executive Assistant to the Executive Headteacher

I joined West Hill Primary in December 2014 and love being part of such a busy school office.  I am married and we have 3 sons and 1 daughter, I love singing, dancing and reading and being involved in my local community.  I was a legal PA for a Magic Circle law firm for many years and now feel very lucky to be able to use those skills and that experience working in an environment close to home and where children are at the heart of everything that we do.

Jennie Purr
Executive Assistant to the Director of Business

I started working at The Galaxy Trust in 2014. I have had different job roles within the Trust, Extended Service Manager, Admin Assistant and my current role as Executive Assistant to the Director of Business. This is a busy and varied role providing support to the Director of Business, which is a challenge I am enjoying. Outside of work I like spending time with my husband and two daughters.