Mrs Sarah Brinkley, Head Teacher

I am originally from Sussex, growing up in Shoreham Beach, before studying at Brunel University in London for a degree in English and History.  I then went home to Sussex University to complete my PGCE, and started by my teaching career at Hove Park School.  It was there I met my husband and had our first child Jack, before we moved up to Abingdon to be near my husband's family, taking up the role of Head of Sixth Form at Trinity School in 1999. After having our second child Max, I then moved to be Assistant Headteacher at Matthew Arnold School in Oxford.   By the time I left in 2008, I had another child, Isobel, and became Deputy Headteacher at John Mason School in Abingdon, until I was appointed as Headteacher at John O'Gaunt.  Teaching is my passion; it is an integral part of who I am. I believe it is a privilege to support and learn with our students as they discover their passions, whatever they may be.

In my spare time I love to run long distance, have recently taken up cycling and you may yet see me attempting my first Triathlon next year....watch this space!  I also enjoy reading, walking our crazy dog Monty, and am a little addicted to The Great British Bake Off and Masterchef.

Mr Jem Nicholls, Deputy Head Teacher

Originally from South Wales and passionate about Welsh Rugby, I graduated from Exeter University (St Luke’s College) in 1980. Following this, I taught PE in schools in Buckinghamshire, Hertfordshire and Oxfordshire before becoming Deputy Head at John O’Gaunt in January 1998. During the early part of my career I also successfully studied for a MSc Degree and a Post Graduate Diploma.

I am married with four children, two of whom are now at University. Outside of school I enjoy watching sport and spending time with my wife and family. I am totally committed to trying to ensure that all students achieve their potential whilst at John O’Gaunt.

Mrs Susanne Fisher, Senior Assistant Head Teacher

Originally from Sheffield, I came to Berkshire to study for a degree in Archaeology and Classical Studies at Reading University. Having completed my degree, I studied for a PGCE at a well-established teacher training establishment in Sheffield. I returned to Berkshire to marry my husband and join the staff at John O’Gaunt where I lost my heart for a second time: this time to a school.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time teaching in the school. During the 28 years I have been in the profession I have built up a thriving Study and Support department and worked to support the well-being of all students. Both of my sons attended the sixth form in the school. The eldest has gone on to study Zoology at Bangor University and the youngest is awaiting his A level results in preparation to attending university to become a PE teacher.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family and visiting places of historical interest; the older the better.

Mr Mike Cowdry, Assistant Head Teacher

I was born in Port Elizabeth, South Africa to an English father and South African mother. I was educated at a boarding school in the countryside. After matriculation, I completed my compulsory national service in the South African Marine Corps as a junior ranking officer and then attended the University of Port Elizabeth where I graduated with a joint degree in English and Psychology. I moved to Cape Town after completing my teaching diploma and taught at Wynberg Boys’ High School for 2 years. The prospect of having to grow and get a mortgage proved too daunting; I sold everything and travelled to the UK. Money quickly ran out and having seen enough of the under-belly of London to last a lifetime, I returned to teaching. I landed a post as English and PE teacher at John O’ Gaunt, where I have remained.

In addition to education, I enjoy most kinds of sport, reading and eating out with my wife and friends. We also both belong to our local Anglican church. We have 2 dogs who I think are spoiled - although my wife disagrees.

I am delighted to be part of the Senior Leadership Team, and to be able to contribute to the College’s very exciting future in this way.

Mrs Corinne Walker, Assistant Head Teacher

After completing my MA, I trained as a languages’ teacher in 1990 and took my first post in a large secondary school in Hampshire. I moved to Oxfordshire after 5 years where I taught in a private girls’ school. I rejoined the state sector in 2002 and was appointed in a comprehensive school in Oxford as Head of Modern Foreign Languages and subsequently Head of Training.

I joined John O’Gaunt school in 2007 as an Assistant Head, where I was given responsibilities for Teaching and Learning. My role has evolved greatly over the last two years and I currently spend much of my time looking after the academic needs of all our students and most specifically Year 11; a role which I thoroughly enjoy.

My interests outside of school are varied and include playing badminton as often as I can and supporting Portsmouth Football Club!