Leadership Team
Poppy Light-Rowsell
Head of School - Oakfield Academy
Poppy has been working as Head of School at Oakfield since September 2026, having been part of the Oakfield leadership team since joining the school in September 2020. As SENDCo and Head of School, she is committed to ensuring that every child receives the support, opportunities and encouragement they need to thrive. Her leadership is underpinned by a strong belief in inclusive education, children's rights and creating a school community where every pupil feels valued, respected and able to succeed.
Poppy qualified with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) from the University of Winchester in 2014 and has extensive experience across primary education, curriculum leadership and school improvement. Throughout her career, she has led a range of areas including Religious Education, Philosophy for Children, Rights Respecting Education and Parliamentary Education. Her passion for pupil voice and children's rights led to her selection for a three-day programme at the Teachers' Institute in Parliament.
Alongside her classroom and leadership experience, Poppy has developed particular expertise in supporting children with additional needs. She has completed both the National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership (NPQSL) and the National Professional Qualification for SENCOs (NPQ for SENCOs), equipping her to lead inclusion and ensure high-quality provision for all learners.
Poppy is passionate about creating an environment where every child can flourish academically, socially and emotionally. She is dedicated to championing children's rights, promoting inclusion and working closely with families, staff and the wider community to provide the very best outcomes for all pupils.