Ms Beard is the Assistant Principal and SENCO at Harris Lowe Academy Willesden. Having grown up in the local area, she attended primary and secondary schools in Brent before moving to Plymouth to study for a BSc in Geography and Ocean Sciences, followed by a PGCE in Science with a Physics specialism.
She began her teaching career in Uxbridge before joining Capital City Academy, where she focused on Science teaching and departmental leadership. Ms Beard later moved to a school in Wandsworth to establish an ASD specialist base, further developing her passion for SEND and inclusion. During this time, she completed the NASENCO qualification to become a qualified SENCO.
She then returned to Brent to join the leadership team at Harris Lowe Academy Willesden, where she is committed to making a positive difference for students with SEND. She has taken part in an expert panel for 'Autistic and OK' and is currently facilitating the NPQSENCO award with the National Institute of Teaching, working with and welcoming the next cohort of SENCOs.
Outside of her leadership role, Ms Beard enjoys sharing her passions with students through supporting the Duke of Edinburgh's Award programme, teaching the occasional food technology lesson, and bringing in homemade treats.
Proudest moment in education: Exam results days are always my proudest moments in education. It is incredibly rewarding to see the success and outcomes of so much hard work from both students and staff. Although it can be difficult to watch students move on, it is also a reminder of how privileged teachers are to support young people as they grow, develop, and begin shaping their own futures. It is always a very emotional and memorable day.
Thing I love the most about HLAW: What I love most about Harris Lowe Academy Willesden is our students and the positive environment they create. It is always wonderful to meet current or former students in the local community, and they are consistently so pleased to see their teachers. This strong sense of connection and community is something I felt was missing in other schools I have visited, and it played a significant part in encouraging me to return to the school after its transition to Harris Lowe.