Headteacher

Miss Nicole Chapman- BA (Hons) QTS 

After graduating with BA Honours, I began my journey in education, driven by a passion for creating environments where children can thrive. For over a decade, I have been a part of the Hadlow Primary School community, serving as Deputy Head, Head of School, and now Headteacher. Each role has deepened my commitment to the values and ethos that make this school so special.

The happiness, progress, and success of every pupil are at the heart of everything we do. At Hadlow Primary, we believe in nurturing each child’s potential, providing them with the support and encouragement they need to achieve their best while developing the confidence and resilience to shine in the world beyond our school. 

Hadlow Primary is more than just a school—it’s a safe, happy, and special place where children, staff, and families work together in partnership. I am incredibly fortunate to lead such a dedicated team who share my commitment to ensuring every child feels valued, supported and inspired. 

Deputy Headteacher / Year 3 Class Teacher 

Mrs Hattie McGonagle - BA (Hons) QTS, NPQLT

 I am delighted to be the Deputy Headteacher, working alongside the wonderful children and dedicated staff at Hadlow Primary School. Becoming Deputy Headteacher has long been a professional aspiration of mine, and I help to support Miss Chapman’s vision for the continued development and success of the school. 

I graduated from Canterbury Christ Church University in January 2012, where I studied Primary Education with Modern Foreign Languages. Prior to graduating, I worked in a secondary Special Educational Needs setting as both a Teaching Assistant and Teacher, supporting pupils aged 10 to 19 and teaching English and Mathematics.

I started at Hadlow Primary school in 2013 and I have had the opportunity to work across a range of year groups, including Years 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5. I am passionate about making learning engaging, creative, and enjoyable for all children. 

SENCO

Mrs Sharon Vanns - BSc (Hons) PGCE, National Award for SEN Coordination 

After graduating from Plymouth with an honours degree in Geography, I came to live in Kent and worked for 6 years at Hadlow College. In 1992, I completed my PGCE at the University of Greenwich and came to Hadlow Primary School the following year. I have taught in both Key Stages and now use this experience to coordinate additional support for any pupil that needs a little extra help or a different approach in their learning.   

FLO/Mental Health Lead

Mrs Sam Wright 

Since leaving University, I have worked primarily with children and young people starting as a Teaching Assistant in a secondary school and most recently working in Early Help in the Maidstone Children’s Centres. I have always been passionate about supporting families and children and I love the relationships I have built with the school community at Hadlow. My job is so rewarding and I love working here.

Apple Learning Team - EYFS/ Reception

Mrs Emma Chantler

Class Teacher

Hadlow Primary School is a very special place and I am delighted to have been able to return to start my teaching career.  I am a proud mum of three children, all of whom attended Hadlow Primary School.

In 2003 I gained a BA in Media Studies at Chichester University. After that, I worked in Advertising and Marketing for 15 years before beginning my career in education in 2018 as a Teaching Assistant at Hadlow.  I have a particular passion for Early Years and gained my Early Years Teaching Qualification in 2025 and in 2026 I completed my teacher training and gained my QTS from Canterbury Christ Church University.

I love singing and dancing and was fortunate enough to attend the BRIT School for Performing Arts. I also have 2 dogs and 4 cats!  I feel incredibly privileged to be part of children’s school journeys and love watching them grow, learn and develop into the very best versions of themselves.

Mrs Kim Barwick

Teaching assistant

I worked in Early Years for 18 years, where I developed a real passion for supporting children in their learning and development. Becoming a Teaching Assistant had always been a goal of mine, and I’m so happy that I took the step to make it a reality. I really enjoy working at Hadlow Primary and love being part of a team that helps children grow in confidence and reach their full potential. It’s incredibly rewarding to see the progress they make and to play a part in their learning journey. Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family. You’ll usually find me walking my three dogs or at the stables with my two daughters, where we spend lots of time with our horses – it’s a hobby we all love and enjoy together.

Plum Learning Team - Year 1

Mrs Kaitlin Regier- BScN, BEd

Class Teacher

After initially finishing a degree in Nursing, I went on to earn a Bachelor of Education.  I worked as a nurse for a year, as rewarding as this was, I missed working with the wonderful, energetic and always exciting young children.   I relocated from Canada to the United Kingdom to teach. I spent several years teaching across a range of year groups, then had children of my own. After taking some time off work to spend time with my children, I was delighted to go back to education at Hadlow Primary School as a Teacher! I love teaching in year one watching our beautiful pupils grow and shine!

Miss Gemma Knight

Teaching Assistant

After completing a training placement here, I immediately fell in love with the school’s warm, welcoming and positive atmosphere, so I was delighted to officially become part of the Hadlow team.

I’m passionate about supporting children as they discover, create and grow, helping them to develop their confidence and love of learning. I have a degree in Childhood Studies, hold Early Years Teacher Status, and have experience working across mainstream, specialist and nursery education.

Outside of school, I’m a busy mum to two young children and share the chaos with our French Bulldog and rabbit, so there’s rarely a dull moment! I love all things creative, as well as music and baking sweet treats. I also enjoy keeping fit, which helps to balance out my love of good food. 

Give me some music, something creative to get stuck into and a slice of cake, and I’m very happy!

Mrs Nichola Brinkley

SEN Teaching Assistant

I have worked in a primary setting for the past 10 years, after the birth of my twin girls I chose a career change and took my Teaching Assistant Qualifications back in 2017.  My passion for watching young children grow and learn never ends.  Being part of their learning journey is such a privilege and so rewarding.

I have recently started with Hadlow Primary School as a Teaching Assistant / 1:1 in Apple Class and Oak Class and am looking forward, very much, to working with all the children and developing their learning skills.

My children are now older and most of my spare time is spent making fantastic memories with them.  

I love nature and animals, so zoo and farm visits is something that I try and do often.  I also like going on picnics, photography, drawing and crafting.

My favourite weather is the sun as we all feel a little happier when our world is shining.

Finally, I have a few pets including a little white dog called Oscar who is very cheeky!  Two tortoises called Willow and Victor and several fish.

Cherry Learning Team - Year 2

Miss Paige Beck

Class Teacher

I knew I wanted to be a teacher when I started gymnastics coaching at 14 at my local gymnastics club. I have been a teacher now for 5 years after studying Primary Education at the University of Greenwich. I thoroughly enjoy teaching and making learning exciting. I am passionate about helping children to achieve in all areas and develop a positive attitude towards learning. Some of my favourite subjects include PE, Maths and Geography. I am really looking forward to teaching Year 2 this year at Hadlow!

Mrs Angela Worsell- BA (Hons)

Teaching Assistant

After gaining a degree in Business Studies, I initially began my career within the field of Human resources, particularly enjoying my time within the NHS. Once I'd started a family I then decided to transfer my skills to working with children. I have enjoyed being part of the team at Hadlow since 2011, covering both key stages. I am very passionate about reading and helping every child reach their full potential.

Mrs Louise Bennett

SEN Teaching Assistant  

I have lived in Hadlow all my life and even went to Hadlow Primary School. I have always enjoyed working with children and gained a CACHE Diploma in childcare. I then had a slight change of career into Customer Services and Travel Insurance. Once I had my two children, the passion to work with children came back. I started as a Midday Meal Supervisor in 2020 and volunteered in EYFS before becoming a 1:1 TA. I really enjoy working with Year 1 and seeing the progress the children make.

Mrs Collette Tomlinson

SEN Teaching Assistant

My name is Mrs. Tomlinson and I work as a 1:1. I enjoy my job as the children make me laugh with their outlook on life every day! I love how they are full of wonderful ideas and view the world in such an exciting manner. I have lots of experience with children as I am a mother to four boys myself (and I've not even turned grey yet!). My favourite animal is a hedgehog, I have hedgehog-themed everything, even cups, and plates. I have not always worked in education; I was previously a hotel manager for 10 years, but I fancied a change in life. I am very happy and excited about my role and have had a blast so far. If you see me around, try and tell me a hedgehog fact I don't already know.

Oak Learning Team - Year 3

Mrs Kate Wickenden-Stone

Apprentice Teacher

I have worked in education for five years now. I started my journey as a midday meal supervisor, before moving to work as a learning support assistant. Having gained experience from various settings, I then made the decision to embark on an Education with SEN degree, with the dream to become a teacher one day. I feel very lucky to have been welcomed into the Hadlow team, everyone has been super welcoming and supportive. Much like my favourite book character Alice, from Alice in Wonderland, I love how every day can be an opportunity for a new adventure! 

Miss Felicity Walder 

Teaching Assistant 

My first role in childcare was as a nursery nurse at Barnies day nursery when I was 17, where I qualified and gained a cache level 3 diploma in childcare. I have since had 21 years experience ranging from being a crèche manager, kids activities coordinator, and a nanny. I then took a short break to have my daughter who now attends Hadlow Primary School. After volunteering in Apple class in September 2022, I was successful in becoming a 1:1 teaching assistant, and I couldn’t be happier! Being able to support children and see their progress is so rewarding, I really do love my job. Hadlow Primary School truly feels  like a family. 

Miss Josie Cummings

SEN Teaching Assistant 

Before working at Hadlow Primary School I worked in a variety of different settings but I’ve always loved working with children the most. I was working in a pharmacy before I decided to make a change and began running the after school club, Rainbows! Soon after that, I started breakfast club and then finally, I was offered a role working in Year 3 and that was when I really knew I was in the right place and I loved every second of it. I’m currently doing breakfast club, working within the school during the day and Rainbows in the evening, some may think I never go home! I love being able to engage with children of all age groups and see them grow into amazing little humans. l really enjoy my job and couldn’t be happier.

Chestnut Learning Team - Year 4

Mrs Bryony O’Neill BA (Hons), PGCE QTS

Class Teacher

I studied Education at Greenwich University, graduating in 2016. I then went to work in a school as a teaching assistant. I learnt a huge amount while I was there and fell in love with teaching. I worked in a variety of classes including reception, year 1 and year 3. I then went onto become a fully qualified teacher by completing my PGCE in 2018. I specialised in supporting special education needs within the classroom. I feel very passionately about making lessons exciting and engaging for all the children. My main areas of interest are DT, art, literacy and History. I am thrilled to be working in year 4.   

Mrs Michelle Hardcastle

Teaching Assistant

I have lived in the village all my life, both myself and all three of my children attended the school. I started volunteering and then progressed to qualify as a NVQ level 2 Teaching Assistant in 2007. I have taken on the responsibility of improving the children's lunchtime experience. I thoroughly enjoy all aspects of my job and seeing the children progress throughout the years.

Miss Katie Costello

Teaching Assistant

Since graduating with a BSc in Psychology, I have worked in research focused on spatial abilities and mathematical learning in children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities. This experience deepened my passion for supporting children in their learning and development. I really value the opportunity to work closely with young people and their families, and I’ve enjoyed becoming part of the school community. Outside of work, I spend most weekends on dog walks and looking after my pet tortoise, Darwin. 

Maple Learning Team - Year 5

Mrs Amy Hood

Class Teacher

I started at Hadlow Primary November 2017 as an admin assistant. In September 2018 became a 1:1 Teaching Assistant in year 2 and moved on to being Class HLTA in Maple and Oak Class. I am thrilled to now be training as a Class Teacher on the Apprenticeship route at a school I love.  I love crafts and design and studied Theatrical Media Make-up and Costume Design at Worcester. I have a keen interest in the way children learn and have studied Neuro  Linguistic Programming (NLP) for adults and children, helping me to understand the different way in which we learn and in turn thinking of different fun ways of learning. I have a Level 3 award in Early years and Childcare and a Teaching assistant level 3 QCF AWARD. I have studied British sign language level 1, as it’s a language I have always wanted to learn.

Mrs Claire Rolls BA (Hons)

Teaching Assistant

I have been working as a Teaching Assistant at Hadlow since 2020, initially supporting children 1:1 and now as a class TA in year 4. I love the fact no two days are the same and there is never a dull moment working in a school! It may be a cliche, but I really am passionate about helping children be the best they can be. Literacy and supporting children to overcome barriers to learning are my main areas of interest, and I also love teaching the children French. As a mum of three, spare time can be a bit elusive, but I have recently completed my studies for the CACHE Level 3 Diploma in Supporting Teaching and Learning, and I enjoy baking, reading and spending lots of time outdoors.

Rowan Learning Team - Year 6

Mr Thomas Gilder BA (Hons) PGCE QTS

Class Teacher 

Much like Ben Solo, I was inspired to finally turn my back on the dark side: insurance (which is absolutely as dull as it sounds), for a far more enjoyable and rewarding vocation. Formerly a Chartered Insurer, I developed a real passion for supporting young people after working in the charity sector. Now, I'm proud to bring my passion and experience into primary education. My focus is firmly on helping pupils feel safe, supported, and inspired to do their best.

Mrs Debi Austin

Teaching Assistant 

I have been working in KS2 (both assisting and covering classes in each year group) at Hadlow Primary School in excess of 10 years.  Although my background is in administration, I have completed the NVQ Level 2 Teaching Assistant course. I have a distinction in A-Level Art and am delighted that a real emphasis is placed on a creative working environment for the children.  In addition to teaching French on a weekly basis in KS2 , I am particularly keen to ensure that children develop a love both of learning in general and of the rich history that is at our fingertips in Kent.  I am proud to say my son attended the school.    

Mrs Rachel Doyle 

1:1 Teaching Assistant Year 5 and Year 6

My name is Mrs Doyle and I am a 1-1 TA in year 6, I enjoy my job because I love how the children are full of passion and drive. I love to see them fill with self-accomplishment and pride when they achieve something great. I enjoy playing golf and watching films. I am a mum to a gorgeous little boy who keeps me very busy. I am obsessed with sharks and they have been my favourite fish since I was very young. I enjoy learning and I am a big kid at heart. Being a TA at Hadlow Primary is the best job I have ever had. 

Mrs Rachana Chimmalagi

Teaching Assistant  in Year 5 and 6

I was born and raised in India and hold a Bachelor's degree in Business and Economics. I am a proud parent of two children, one of whom is a former student while the other is currently studying at Hadlow Primary School. My family and I are contentedly settled in Hadlow. During my free time, I like reading, knitting, crocheting and sketching. After several years of experience in tutoring, I decided to pursue my passion for teaching. I began volunteering, and this ultimately led me to my current career path as a Teaching Assistant. The young innocent minds and their big ideas never fail to amaze me. It gives me immense pleasure to be part of their learning journey.

Cover support Teaching Assistants

Mrs Nicola Whapshott

 

Office Team

Mrs Lisa Roberts- Office Manager

I was a pupil at Hadlow Primary school a very long time ago and have worked in school admin for the past 8 years in both Primary and Secondary schools. I started at Hadlow at the beginning of 2019. I enjoy the challenge of not knowing what to expect each day and hope I make a useful addition to the Admin team in this outstanding school.   

 

Mrs Louise Ng- Office Manager

I joined the School Office in September 2023, having worked in a secondary school Sixth Form with much bigger children! Previous to that and before my two daughters were born, I worked in London for an international hotels company and then in investment banking.

I really enjoy the variety of the school day, providing a friendly and helpful welcome and of course sharing the office with Mrs Roberts!

School Caretaker

Paul Cooper

I have had my own Carpentry business for the last 30 years. I have also worked building sets for film and television programmes.

I worked at a locksmiths for 6 years, in 2013 I worked part-time at BQ and got involved with Kids Club which I really enjoyed.

Then in 2020, when we were all stuck at home wondering what to do. I started drawing and painting again, now Art has become a real passion for me. I have had some exhibitions and actually sold some pictures. I like to play golf when I can, and have been playing badminton weekly for the last 20 years. My springer spaniel Japp keeps me busy with walks and cleaning him when he jumps in the muddiest puddles!

Play Leaders

Mrs Laver

Mrs Whapshott

 

Cleaning Team

Mrs Kerry Hughes

Mrs Jane Barnett

Kitchen Team

Contract Dining Company

Anita Gibson

Jemma Johnson

There are no employees at this school who earn in excess of £100k