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Meet the team

Heads of School

Mrs Laura Carey

It is a privilege to be one of the founding Co- Heads of School at Alkerden Church of England All-Through Academy, bringing with me 21 years of experience in education. As a subject specialist in English and a leader in Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, I have always been passionate about creating inclusive, high-achieving learning environments where every child can thrive. 

Over the past seven years in senior leadership, I have worked to shape school cultures that nurture the whole learner—academically, socially, and emotionally. I firmly believe that every child is unique, with their own gifts and limitless potential, and it is our role as educators to support and guide them in discovering who they are and what they can achieve. 

I am committed to ensuring that every student, regardless of background or ability, receives the best possible education in a supportive and ambitious environment. Together, we will build a school where everyone is encouraged to aim high, be kind, and get involved—not just in their education, but in shaping a better future for themselves and those around them. 

I look forward to leading Alkerden alongside Mrs Prest on this exciting journey and working collaboratively with learners, staff, families, and the wider community to create a school where we all learn together and thrive together. 

Mrs Sarah Prest

I am thrilled to be one of Alkerden’s Co-Heads of School alongside Mrs Carey at this exciting new all-through school, opening in September 2025. With 19 years of experience in primary education and 14 years in local school leadership, I’ve seen first-hand the incredible difference a supportive and inspiring school community can make in a young person’s life—and that’s exactly what we’re building here at Alkerden.  

I have been privileged to be a part of the central team at the Aletheia Academies Trust as a Trust Improvement Officer supporting the leadership of our schools, and I’m proud to live the Trust’s vision of improving life chances for local children. This guiding principle underpins everything we will do here at Alkerden: we will put collaboration, inclusion, growth, and kindness at the centre. From healthy bodies and minds to developing a strong sense of community, we are creating a place where pupils can grow, thrive, and make a positive impact on the world around them.  

At the heart of our work is a belief in the power of strong relationships—between pupils, families, staff, and the wider community. 

I’m so excited to welcome our founding Year 7 pupils and families in September 2025 and to begin this incredible journey with you all. Alkerden C of E Academy is more than just a school; it is a collaborative community, and we can’t wait to see what we can achieve together. 

Want to be part of the team?