Saltley Houses

Head of Alhazen House - Nicola Dowds 

As Head of Alhazen House, I am determined about creating a supportive, inspiring environment where pupils can thrive both academically and personally. Inspired by the mathematician Alhazen, in Alhazen house we believe in the importance of pushing boundaries—whether that means learning something new or stepping outside your comfort zone. Adventure plays a key role in this journey, and I encourage students to approach their studies with curiosity and a fearless attitude.

Mutual respect is at the heart of everything we do in Alhazen House. I work hard to build strong relationships with pupils, staff, and parents, fostering a family-like atmosphere where everyone feels valued and supported. Hard work and perseverance are essential, and I strive to instil these values in the pupils of Alhazen, helping them push their boundaries and achieve their best.

I’m committed to guiding pupils on their journey of self-discovery, nurturing their passion for learning, and helping them develop the skills they need to succeed in life.

Head of Cadbury House Kieran Pritchard

As Head of Cadbury House, my role is centred on fostering a strong sense of belonging amongst pupils. 

Drawing on my experience as a Physical Education teacher, I emphasise team building through various activities that encourage collaboration and camaraderie. It's essential to create an environment where every pupil feels valued and supported, allowing them to bring their best selves to school each day.

I prioritize well-being by promoting physical activity and mental resilience, understanding that a healthy mind and body contribute to overall happiness. Compassion is at the heart of our house culture, encouraging pupils to uplift one another and cultivate lasting friendships. Through various initiatives, we strive to create a community where everyone feels empowered to express themselves and pursue their passions. 

Ultimately, my goal as Head of House is to guide pupils in becoming compassionate leaders who contribute positively to our school and beyond.

Head of Curie House - Matthew Duggan

I am committed about addressing the socio-economic divide through education and dedicated pastoral support. I believe that every student, regardless of their background, deserves the guidance and care to thrive both academically and personally. My focus is on creating a safe and inclusive environment where students can develop resilience, creativity, and a strong sense of belonging. 

I prioritize building meaningful relationships with each student, understanding their unique challenges and strengths. By providing tailored pastoral care and fostering open communication, I aim to empower all learners to become respectful and responsible citizens who contribute positively to our community.

I am committed to ensuring that every student has access to enriching experiences and opportunities that will help them grow. 

Together, we can create a supportive atmosphere that encourages personal growth and academic success, enabling each student to reach their full potential and prepare for a bright future.

Head Of Farah House - Sian Bird

As Head of House, I oversee the smooth running of Farah House, ensuring the Academy's standards and expectations are met, as well as overseeing the wellbeing of the students. To achieve this, I lead by example and ensure clear communication with all students, families and my team of form tutors. No question or concern is too big or too small. 

I am also the Academy’s Vocation Curriculum Lead.  I believe that schools should be inclusive and supportive whilst preparing students for life after secondary education. I have developed a challenging and relevant curriculum for students to ensure more needs are met. My goal is that students leave Saltley Academy equipped with a range of skills and qualities which prepare them for further study and the world of work.

Head of Shakespeare House - Catherine Mullane

As a passionate practitioner and Pastoral leader of over 20 years in this community, I believe wholeheartedly in nurturing and enabling young people of all backgrounds and abilities to excel both academically and personally.

In my role as Head of Shakespeare House, I support and guide my pupils towards making the right choices to help them grow into confident, articulate, and ambitious young people who are tolerant, independent, and resilient.

I want them to believe in themselves so that they can achieve their aspirations, are prepared for the challenges of life after school and become the best they can be.

As Shakespeare said ''It's not in the stars to hold our destiny, but in themselves''.

Head of Turing House - Shahid Rehman

Respect, Resilience and Perseverance are the cornerstones of Turing House. Very much in line with our House champion Alan Turing OBE. These are the key characteristics that I feel should be instilled in all pupils within our House.

As a former pupil, having worked at Saltley for 13 years, I have spent the last six years as the Head of Turing House. My schooling gave me the opportunity to achieve my aspirations, I was lucky enough to graduate with BSc Honors in Biochemistry from the University of Birmingham. It is now my ambition to give our pupils these same opportunities and more.

In Turing House we provide pupils with the foundations to regulate their social, emotional and behavioural mindsets.

Nurturing the pupil’s personal growth in this way allows them to achieve the best possible outcomes academically. We wish to guide our pupils in Turing to educational success as a means of social mobility.

Head of Jemison House - Charlotte Danaher

I have been the Head of Jemison House for 4 years since its inception in 2020CE and I am very proud of all our Jemison students both past and present. 

I believe that with the help and support of the House Manager and tutors, Jemison house provides a happy and effective support network within the Saltley Academy family. I am committed about children's education and raising the achievement and aspirations of students regardless of their background. 

I believe that we all have a duty to ensure every student has equal opportunities in education and in their future lives as a whole. It is our duty to make students well-rounded , autonomous individuals with the life-skills and confidence necessary to prosper and succeed. 

As Mae Jemison said, ''Never limit yourself because of other's limited imagination; never limit others because of your own limited imagination''.