Percy's People - Percy Hedley Foundation

Meet our Key Staff

Welcome to Percy’s People, where we highlight the incredible staff and the wide range of roles we have that make The Percy Hedley Foundation so special. Read on hear from some of the amazing individuals who help bring our mission to life.

John Preston

John is the Chief Executive of the Percy Hedley Foundation and was officially appointed in December 2024 after holding the role for an interim period. His career has been within health and social care for almost 20 years.

John is responsible for over 1000 staff members and oversees the vision, strategy and overall success of the Foundation.

Read John's Journey >

Anne-Marie Forrest

Anne-Marie is a Deputy Principal at Hedleys College in Forest Hall.

Hedleys College is a specialist further education provider that supports 72 16-25 year olds, and Anne-Marie plays a key role in training and supporting staff, reviewing quality and performance and providing overall guidance across the College.

Read Anne-Marie's Journey >

Lorna Wilson

Lorna is the Wellbeing & Engagement Officer at Northern Counties School in Jesmond, a specialist education provider for learners aged 3-19.

She’s responsible for supporting learners, parents and staff alike through counselling, safeguarding and wellbeing activities. Lorna is a qualified counsellor and a member of the British Association for Counselling and Therapy.

Read Lorna's Journey >

Gary Nelson

Gary is an Assistant Principal at Hedleys College in Forest Hall.

Hedleys College is a specialist further education provider that supports 72 16-25 year olds, and Gary is responsible for leading Health and Safety at the college as a member of the leadership team.

He also works with Hedleys Beyond to secure job opportunities and work experience for students, and coordinates exciting projects such as the Duke of Edinburgh Award and Police Cadets.

Read Gary's Journey >

Susan Hall

Susan is a Learning Support Assistant at Percy Hedley School who has been with the Foundation since 1985.

Percy Hedley School is a specialist education provision in Killingworth for students aged 3-19.

Susan is responsible for supporting learners across a range of activities and assisting them to achieve milestones.

Read Susan's Journey >

Shomari Lewis

Shomari is a PE Tutor at Northern Counties School in Jesmond, a specialist education provider for learners aged 3-19.

Shomari leads the teaching of PE across all areas of the school, from fundamental movement skills to traditional sports. He’s also an on-site NAPPI trainer.

Read Shomari's Journey >

Kerry Robinson

Kerry is a Project Manager at Hedley’s Beyond, our team that work with local employers in the community to offer high quality work experience for those supported by the Foundation.

Kerry supports our learners through strengthening their employability skills, helping them to realise their career dreams.

Read Kerry's Journey >

Interested in a career at the Percy Hedley Foundation?

View our current vacancies to find out more.

Careers at Percy Hedley