Lauren Ferrell
“It’s a place where you can develop your career and get involved beyond the classroom.”
I began my career at Hammersmith Academy as a Newly Qualified Teacher of Design and Technology, alongside form tutoring responsibilities. I was quickly drawn to the Academy’s enrichment opportunities and the wider life of the school, particularly enjoying building relationships beyond the classroom and supporting the instilling of values.
I was also drawn to the energy and sense of belonging created through the house system, which led me to the role of House Coordinator. In this role, I worked closely with tutors and pastoral teams, supporting students more widely and contributing to the culture of healthy competition and strong values across the Academy.
As my teaching experience developed, I took the opportunity to expand and refine the KS3 curriculum, moving into the role of Key Stage 3 Coordinator for Design and Technology. Here, I placed a greater emphasis on the STEM elements of DT, ensuring students developed relevant, transferable skills in line with a rapidly developing world.
Taking on the role of STEM Coordinator the following year allowed me to do this on a wider scale, working with colleagues across departments and the careers team to create opportunities linked to science, technology and engineering both within and beyond the Academy.
In these roles, I built partnerships with a range of external organisations and individuals, further developing opportunities for students and strengthening my own interest in STEM and its real-world applications.
I later became Subject Leader for Design and Technology, leading the department and joining the Middle Leadership Team, with a focus on developing the subject’s profile and the quality of our GCSE and A Level provision.
In my current role as Head of the Arts Faculty, I proudly oversee Art, Photography, Design and Technology, Music and Drama.
My career at Hammersmith Academy has been shaped by the opportunity to take on new challenges, follow developing interests and continue building on each role.
What makes Hammersmith Academy a unique place to work?
What stands out to me is the balance between high expectations and the wider opportunities given to students. There is a genuine focus on preparing students for life beyond school through enrichment, pastoral care and experiences outside the classroom.
It’s also a place where you can get involved in lots of different areas and feel your contribution makes a difference, which is something I’ve really valued.
How has the Academy supported your professional development?
My development has largely come through being given responsibility at different stages and learning through those roles. I’ve been trusted to contribute and grow within the Academy.
Informally, I have also learned a great deal from colleagues across all areas of the school. From admin and facilities to SEN and teaching staff, people are generous with their time, advice and expertise, which has been invaluable to my development.
What is the sense of community like among staff?
The sense of community is something I noticed from the day I interviewed, and it’s a big part of why I’ve stayed. There is a strong sense of teamwork across the Academy, with staff, support staff and governors working together, sharing ideas and supporting one another.
It’s an environment where you feel part of something bigger, which makes a real difference day to day.
What does your role as Head of Arts Faculty mean to you?
Leading the Arts Faculty is incredibly important to me. I am very proud to oversee Art, Photography, Design and Technology, Music and Drama, and most importantly to work alongside such a skilled, committed and creative team.
Each member of the faculty brings their own strengths and specialisms, and it’s that combination of expertise that makes the team so strong. There is a real sense of collaboration and shared purpose, with everyone working to ensure that all students can express themselves creatively and develop confidence through the arts.
A key part of my role is supporting the team and continuing to build their respective subjects and the overall profile of the arts across the Academy. It is rewarding to see the impact of that work on students and the community and it still excites me to see what happens when the different disciplines come together
What would you say to someone considering a role at Hammersmith Academy?
It’s a place where you can develop your career and get involved beyond the classroom.
What makes the biggest difference is the team. Staff are supportive, collaborative and share ideas, creating a positive environment to grow and take on new challenges.
If you’re open to opportunities, it’s a place where you can build experience and feel part of a committed team.
Attaining Success in The Real World
