Ms Heyes, Teacher

My name is Hannah Heyes and I am the current Designated Safeguarding Lead at HLAW. 

As a member of the senior leadership team, my professional journey is deeply intertwined with this school, not only as a staff member but as a former student. Having returned to the school in 2018 as the school's Welfare Officer, I have experienced first-hand its strong commitment to developing people at every stage of their career. The school has consistently invested in my professional growth through high-quality training, mentorship, and opportunities to take on increasing responsibility, enabling me to refine my leadership skills with confidence and purpose. 

My personal history with the school has also given me a strong and authentic understanding of the local community it serves. Having grown up and been educated here, I am acutely aware of the local safeguarding challenges and contextual issues that can affect our pupils and families. This insight allows me to contribute meaningfully to safeguarding practice, ensuring that policies and procedures are not only robust but responsive to the real lived experiences of our community. 

What makes this experience particularly meaningful is the continuity between my time as a student and my role as a leader. The values and culture instilled in me as a pupil continue to shape my professional practice today, fostering a strong sense of loyalty, responsibility, and commitment to safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of every child in our care.

“The school has consistently invested in my professional growth through high-quality training, mentorship, and opportunities to take on increasing responsibility, enabling me to refine my leadership skills with confidence and purpose.”