Rachel was born, educated and trained to be a teacher in Devon and is committed to giving back to a County that has enabled her to develop and grow her career. She believes passionately that education provides choices and opportunities for our children’s futures and that we have a duty to ensure that no child gets left behind.

She has worked in Devon schools for 26 years and spent 22 of those in senior leadership positions. After leading several schools across Devon, some in very challenging circumstances, she became the CEO of South Dartmoor Academy Trust which required significant transformation in order to have a secure future. Following this work, she took up the position of CEO of Exeter Learning Academy Trust, leading a group of Primary Schools based within the city. Rachel is also an Executive member of the Devon Association of Primary Headteachers and a Trustee within Exeter Learning Academy Trust. She has been a governor, director or Trustee of a school for over 25 years.