Astrid is a highly experienced education leader whose career has been shaped by a strong commitment to inclusion, high expectations and improving outcomes for vulnerable children and young people. A former Headteacher with extensive experience across mainstream and alternative provision, she most recently led one of the country’s largest all-through alternative provision schools in an area facing significant social and economic challenges. In June 2024, London East Alternative Provision achieved an Outstanding Ofsted judgement in every area.
Her expertise spans teaching and learning, SEND, behaviour, therapeutic practice, alternative provision and specialist bases within mainstream schools. Astrid has led significant school improvement and organisational change across primary, secondary and post-16 settings, developing academic, vocational, wellbeing and enrichment approaches that support children with complex needs and disrupted educational experiences.
As a School Improvement Partner and consultant, Astrid has supported schools, multi-academy trusts and local authorities across London and nationally. Her recent work includes research into inclusive practice and inclusion rooms for Tower Hamlets Education Partnership, school improvement leadership with Olive Academies, and inclusion, behaviour and teaching and learning reviews across mainstream and alternative provision settings.
Astrid has also contributed to national discussions on improving provision for vulnerable and disadvantaged children, collaborating with organisations including the Department for Education, the Ministry of Justice, the Centre for Social Justice, The Difference and All-Party Parliamentary Groups. Her approach is rooted in understanding the child behind the behaviour and combining compassion and strong relationships with clear boundaries, excellent teaching and ambitious expectations.
Awarded an MBE for services to education in alternative provision in 2025, Astrid brings to BDSIP extensive expertise, integrity and a deep belief that every child deserves the highest-quality education, care and opportunity to succeed.
