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Our People
At SuMS, our team is made up of people who are passionate about our mission; to inspire exceptional young mathematicians from all backgrounds into high-potential STEM pathways by providing an innovative education that supports exploration beyond A Levels into real-world applications.
We are all committed to creating a unique post-16 learning experience that supports our students to thrive, achieve their potential and prepare for their next steps. We will challenge, nurture and encourage every individual in our care and will always endeavour to make SuMS a happy school in which every student achieves their best possible outcomes.
Read more about us...
Mrs Shillabeer, Co-Headteacher
Mrs Shillabeer has been Co-Headteacher of Surrey Maths School since January 2024, and together with Ms Kettleborough has driven the school from its pre-opening phase to a very successful launch in September 2024. She is delighted to be leading this exciting new venture, designed to bring the dynamic and inspiring ethos of a maths school to the brilliant young minds of Surrey and its surrounds.
Mrs Shillabeer is excited to be leading the creation of this new hub of maths excellence in the South East region, which will bring together bright young mathematicians in a space where they can truly thrive. SuMS will also deliver a range of Outreach projects focused on inspiring students of all ages and working with teachers on a local and national scale. This is a unique opportunity to diversify the teaching of the mathematical sciences in Surrey and beyond.
Mrs Shillabeer qualified as a secondary maths teacher in 2005. In her first post, she worked in a variety of roles over a 10-year period including leading the Maths Department, developing the school’s outreach programme and sitting on the SLT team. She then worked as a Curriculum Development Lead at Mathematics Mastery, working on the secondary curriculum and delivering bespoke CPD.
Realising how much she missed being in the classroom, she returned to school as a KS5 Maths Coordinator before taking on the role of Head of Maths at the Royal Ballet School.
In the two years prior to taking up the Co-Headship at SuMS, she worked at King’s Maths School, first as Head of Y13 and then as an Assistant Head in charge of the timetable and logistics, internal and external examinations, data and systems, UCAS, and the challenge and extension programme.
In her spare time she enjoys baking (and has been known to make a wedding cake or two), learning Japanese and reading.
Most often found: arguing with her cats over who gets to sit on the sofa!
Ms Kettleborough, Co-Headteacher
Ms Kettleborough has been Co-Headteacher of Surrey Maths School since January 2024, and together with Mrs Shillabeer has driven the school from its pre-opening phase to a very successful launch in September 2024. She is delighted to be leading this exciting new venture, designed to bring the dynamic and inspiring ethos of a maths school to the brilliant young minds of Surrey and its surrounds.
She is excited to be building a community of like-minded and inquisitive young people in a school focused around the values of Compassion, Integrity, Collaboration, Aspiration and Innovation. She strongly believes in the philosophy of widening participation and increasing access to mathematical sciences for all.
A physicist by trade, Ms Kettleborough taught Physics across a variety of schools over the last decade, leading their Physics departments and specialising in sixth form education.
She has a particular interest supporting young people from under-represented backgrounds in STEM into further education, and has prioritised this work both as a teacher and leader.
As a senior leader, Ms Kettleborough has developed progressive wellbeing and inclusion practices for student, staff and broader school stakeholders.
In her spare time she enjoys playing in her community wind band, going on wild camping adventures, and generally trying to fit too much into the day.
Most often found: going for a run either up a hill or through some mud somewhere!
Dr Brierley, Teacher of Physics
Dr Brierley grew up in the West Midlands and studied Natural Sciences at the University of Cambridge, staying on to complete a doctorate in Physics. During her PhD she enjoyed tutoring undergraduates and getting involved in science outreach, which led to a career in teaching. Dr Brierley has taught in the local area, at both Guildford High School and George Abbot School.
Dr Brierley has a passion for helping students learn why and how things work and keeping their curiosity alive. Physics helps us understand the universe around us, whilst posing new problems for us to explore.
In her spare time she enjoys learning new crafts and organising her collection of art materials.
Most often found: working on her new allotment or running around the woods with 1st Merrow Scouts.
Ms Cameron, Lead Teacher of Outreach and Teacher of Mathematics
Ms Cameron is a proud south Londoner who just about crossed the river to read Maths at Kings College London and then a Masters in Educational Leadership at the IOE. She began teaching in 2010, fulfilling a wide range of leadership roles both within Mathematics departments as well as pastorally in both mainstream and alternative provisions.
Ms Cameron has a passion for nurturing the whole child, working to ensure that all students are able to meet their full potential both in and out of the classroom as well as see themselves in their learning. Most recently, this has included providing tuition for students with EHCPs out of education, using trauma-informed practice to not only support them to be successful mathematicians but also spark a curiosity and love of mathematics.
As part of her Outreach role, Ms Cameron is excited to put SuMS on the map as an inclusive school, fostering an environment where STEM-based subjects are celebrated at all levels.
In her spare time she enjoys playing competitive netball, learning Korean and reading as many books as possible.
Most often found: exploring the local farms and soft plays with her puzzle-loving toddler.
Mr George, Lead Teacher of Future Pathways, Teacher of Mathematics and DEI Officer
Mr George grew up in Nottingham before studying Maths at Bristol University. He is also very proud of his northern roots and hopes he has not lost too much of his accent!
He has spent the last 16 years teaching Maths and joins us from RGS Guildford where he was Assistant Head Diversity and Inclusion and Deputy Head of Maths. As the DEI Officer for Surrey Maths School, Mr George is looking forward to preparing students to be global citizens, to live, work and thrive in a multi-cultural society in which they drive forward change and celebrate difference.
Mr George is an advocate for positive mental health and he believes the stigma surrounding these issues should be challenged. He will not shy away from honest conversations and hopes that students at Surrey Maths School will feel comfortable talking about their mental health needs.
In his spare time he enjoys cooking, going to the gym and scuba diving.
Most often found: trying to convince Ms Kettleborough that Nottingham is just as northern as Manchester!
Dr Kirby, Teacher of Chemistry
Dr Kirby was born in London, spending his formative years in Surrey and the home counties, with a couple of years in Australia - where he learnt to swim, play cricket and make a real BBQ.
He was inspired to study chemistry by his high school chemistry teacher and hopes to pass on this enthusiasm for the subject to his own students, especially in the practical activities where the chemistry comes alive.
On completion of his doctorate in Chemistry, at the University of Sussex, Dr Kirby worked for Unilever as a Research Chemist, before moving to and IBM as a Materials Specialist. After several years in the electronics industry, working in China, USA and Europe, he retrained as a chemistry teacher and taught in schools in the UK and China, with senior roles as Head of Department and High School Principal.
He is very excited to be part of a new school, as it is an opportunity for the students and teachers to develop the school’s character and personality, as it becomes a place of excellence for STEM education in the post-16 sector.
In his spare time, he enjoys cycling, swimming, running, reading, visiting family and friends.
Most often found cycling, discussing cycling, reading about cycling, or watching cycling!
Mrs Robinson, Lead Teacher of Y12 and Teacher of Computer Science
Mrs Robinson studied for her Computer Science degree at the University of Southampton, with an industrial placement year at Roke Manor Research. After graduating, she worked for an educational software company in Alberta, Canada, and then spent time travelling, before returning to work for a financial services company in the City as a Software Engineer. After a career break to start a family, she retrained as a teacher and has taught in local schools for ten years, including five years as a Year Group Leader.
Mrs Robinson believes that children develop as responsible, rounded individuals in a strong school community enhanced by activities both inside and outside the classroom. She strives to ensure that students reach their academic potential, but also to leave school with the confidence and resilience to tackle their next steps. She is really looking forward to being involved in the pastoral side of Year 12 and supporting the students to develop as tolerant and compassionate members of the wider community.
In her spare time she runs anything from parkrun to marathons and is ticking off the six World Marathon Majors (with two left!). She also enjoys spending time exploring the great outdoors with her family.
Most often found: curled up after a long run with a cup of tea, a newspaper and her dog.
Mrs Ryzak-McGhee, Teacher of Economics
Mrs Ryzak-McGhee read Philosophy, Politics and Economics at Oxford before spending 5 years in industry as an executive remuneration consultant (she helped company directors decide what to pay CEOs). She then moved into teaching and was most recently Head of Economics at Reigate Grammar School.
Mrs Ryzak-McGhee believes that Economics is the perfect subject for anyone who wants to learn how to think, not what to think. She is (very) excited to help a classroom of keen and mathematicallyMr Tizard, Lead Teach
able economists to collaboratively explore some of the big questions about the society they live in, such as whether we can accurately model human behaviour and how governments can best respond to economic and social problems like inflation and the cost of living crisis.
In her spare time she enjoys reading, baking and going for long walks.
Most often found: exploring the great outdoors with her daughters.
Mr Tizard, Lead Teacher of Outreach and Teacher of Mathematics
Mr Tizard grew up in Surrey, before leaving to study Maths at Nottingham University. His three years in Nottingham emboldened him to travel in the years that followed. From Ghana to Syria, Israel to Honduras and many places in between, they each had their own unique charm. However, in terms of eye-opening experiences, a Friday night in Nottingham is probably still the most formative.
Teaching since 2011, Mr Tizard has spent the last 8 years working at local Sixth Form Colleges in Godalming and Esher. He has developed a real love of working with students of this age, finding their enthusiasm and humour refreshing. He has held a range of different roles of responsibility throughout his career and has a real interest in pedagogy and getting the most out of his students.
As part of his Outreach role, Mr Tizard is keen to get out and about and meet students in the local area. He is also very much looking forward to working alongside a range of other teachers, learning from them and offering support in any way he can.
In his spare time he can be found feeding his three kids, entertaining his kids, cleaning up after his kids and acting as mediator for his kids.
Most often found: recovering in a quiet place (see above).
Dr Nelson, Science Technician
Dr Nelson studied Materials Science at Bath University and stayed on to complete a doctorate in Piezoelectric Materials. He then worked for QinteiQ as a specialist in non-destructive testing, with a main focus on ultrasound imaging of engineering structures. His passion for learning and research led him to the University of Bristol where he conducted research into carbon fibre materials for aerospace applications.
He is currently a busy father of three children, a role that allows him to keep exploring the fun and creative side of all things maths and science with them.
Dr Nelson is excited to be a part of the SuMS team and supporting the students on their learning journey.
In his spare time he enjoys tinkering with his latest DIY projects, riding his bike, swimming and yoga.
Most often found: Standing on his head in the yoga studio.
Mrs Bourne, SENDCo
Mrs Bourne has a degree in Primary Education from Canterbury Christ Church University where she specialised in MFL, completing an extended teaching practice in Lyon. She began teaching straight after graduating in 2007 and has taught in several local (primary) schools, leading subjects including Mathematics, French and PSHE. She currently works for the Inclusion Team at Pyrford CofE Primary School, founding school of the (future) Learning Partners Church Academy Trust, and she is excited to take on the additional role of SENDCo at SuMS.
Mrs Bourne passionately believes that every child, regardless of background, circumstance, or additional need, deserves the very best standard of education and should be given every opportunity to achieve their potential. She is an advocate for those with additional needs and has a particular interest in how mainstream settings can ensure that students with SEND are supported effectively. Mrs Bourne has extensive experience of neuro-divergence in all walks of her life and is keen to support students through their transition into further education.
Outside of her professional interests, she enjoys running, musical theatre and spending time with her family.
Most often found: out and about exploring with her children or curled up on the sofa with a cup of tea and a good book.
Mrs Davidge, School Counsellor
Mrs Davidge is a BACP Accredited Counsellor and Psychotherapist. She has worked at Kings College London Maths School since 2018 and more recently has expanded into private practice. She also works with Surrey County Council as a Community Panel Member, working with Youth Justice Services.
Mrs Davidge was born and lived in South London until about 20 years ago when she moved to Surrey. She loves being from London because of its diversity of culture, history and people, and misses being able to jump on the tube! She has been involved with education as a governor of an infant school, as a parent and as a mature student. She enjoys working with children and young people as she has a strong commitment to supporting future generations.
Mrs Davidge enjoys gardening and is a member of the RHS so that she can enjoy the tranquillity of colourful, serene environments. She also spends time watching films with (and without) friends and family.
Most often found: trying to find a quiet spot…
Mrs Morton, Finance Manager
Mrs Morton brings a wealth of diverse experience to her role as Finance Manager at SuMS, where she plays a pivotal part in both the pre-opening and opening of the school. Her journey began at British Airways, where she dedicated 15 years as a member of the Cabin Crew, exploring the world. Her tenure at the airline was not just limited to flying; she also contributed as a Trainer in the Learning and Development department, imparting knowledge to fellow Cabin Crew and Pilots.
Mrs Morton then embarked on a new path to raise her two sons, during which she pursued AAT qualifications to transition into the finance sector. Her initial step into this field was as a Finance Assistant at Northmead Junior School, where she quickly progressed to Finance Manager after just a year.
She is passionate about education and self-improvement, and actively continues studying while managing her professional responsibilities. She is excited to take on her role at SuMS, complementing her ongoing commitment to Northmead Junior School, both of which are integral to the Learning Partners Academy Trust.
Outside of her professional pursuits she enjoys running, yoga and spending time with her family.
Most often found: running around after her children or going for a run to escape running around after her children.
Mrs Stapledon, Senior Administrator
Mrs Stapledon studied French & Psychology at Keele University, before progressing to Leeds University to study for a PGCE. After teaching English in France and French in England she decided to pursue a career in business, and spent several years in a variety of Learning & Development roles in companies including Great Plains Software, Microsoft, Experian and Sanofi-Aventis. After a career break to raise her son she was keen to return to the world of education, and is delighted to be working at Surrey Maths School. She believes passionately in the value of education and the importance of making high-quality learning available to everyone through open access and understanding individual needs.
In her role at SuMS she enjoys supporting students and their families, from their initial point of contact with the school, through the admissions process, to the very exciting day on which the students enrol! She also loves building strong partnerships with local organisations, such as the University of Surrey, so that every SuMS student can benefit, and promoting SuMS as a great place to study through our social media channels.
In her spare time she enjoys walking her dogs, practising basketball skills with her son and trying to learn to play the flute.
Most often found: with her nose in a book or pootling in her garden.
Mrs Cheung, School Administrator
Mrs Cheung was born in Portsmouth. She studied Computer Science at Kingston University followed by over 2 decades as an IT consultant in various roles from development to application support.
She took a career break to spend time with her family. During this time, she painted the house, built a log cabin, grew lots of vegetables, volunteered at her children's primary school and ran the London marathon.
In her spare time she enjoys going to the gym, going to the cinema and looking up recipes.
Most often found: ferrying the kids around, running, cooking and tending to her plants.
