Meet our team

As the Director of Red Kite Education, Sara Davidson leads Red Kite Connect, Red Kite Teacher Training, Red Kite Teaching School Hub and the Red Kite Alliance. Originally a secondary English teacher, she has a wide range of experience as a middle and senior leader, acting Headteacher and local authority Strategic Lead for Education. Sara has an interest in teacher-led research, completing an MEd in Practitioner Enquiry in 2019 and winning the Marie Butterworth Prize for practitioner enquiry from Newcastle University. She has also been a Principal Lecturer for teacher training at a university in the North East, and brings this knowledge and experience of educational research to her role in Red Kite Education.

Steve Howell has worked in the education sector since 2003 following roles as a Management Accountant for various blue-chip companies including Unilever and Coca-Cola. Steve helped establish and develop Red Kite Learning Trust and was our CFO for ten years, leading on financial, risk and compliance matters as well as steering the Trust and the Teaching School on strategic and commercial aspects. Steve is now our Commercial Director working across all strands of our Trust developing and nurturing our brands, strategic partnerships and cultivating commercial opportunities.

As the Marketing Manager at Red Kite Education, Emma leads the marketing strategies for Red Kite Connect, Red Kite Teacher Training, Red Kite Alliance, and Red Kite Teaching School Hub. Since joining Red Kite in 2018, she has transitioned from managing admissions for teacher training to a comprehensive marketing role. Emma's diverse background includes digital sports media, clinical research and environmental management, with experience in both operational and account management roles. This varied expertise enhances her strategic marketing approach and she has a proven ability to craft innovative and effective marketing initiatives.

Jen has been running MHFA courses for several years and has a proven track record of providing exceptional training for both online and face-to-face delivery. Jen’s warm and approachable manner allows her to connect with educators on a personal level, fostering an environment of trust and support. She recognises the unique challenges faced by teachers and other staff members working in education and uses her expertise to provide targeted strategies and resources to alleviate any concerns. Jen's training sessions are renowned for their engaging and interactive nature. Through collaborative and reflective activities, she fosters a sense of community, encouraging participants to share their experiences and learn from one another.