Meet the team

Mike founded Releasing Potential in 2001, driven by his passion for creating bridges between marginalised young people and wider society. With a B.Ed and background as a PE teacher, he brings extensive outdoor education qualifications to his leadership role. As CEO, Mike oversees strategic direction while still finding time to teach outdoor education sessions.

Mike has a particular enthusiasm for sailing along the South Coast and hiking in the mountains.

Jane has been with Releasing Potential since its inception in 2001, providing crucial financial stewardship throughout the organisation’s growth and development. With over 30 years’ experience in finance and senior management positions, she brings invaluable expertise to her role. As CFO, Jane ensures strong administrative foundations that empower our educational teams.

Jane has a particular enjoyment for walking, reading and kayaking.

Olly joined Releasing Potential in 2024, bringing over 25 years of experience in education and leadership to his role. With an MA in Education and extensive background in supporting learners with additional needs, he specialises in creating environments where young people with SEMH needs can thrive. As Head of School, Olly ensures our provision delivers meaningful progression pathways.

Olly has a particular interest in automotive and motorsport events, especially vintage tractor shows.

Emma joined Releasing Potential in 2018, bringing valuable experience from her career in the outdoor industry. With a degree in outdoor education and specialist knowledge in water sports, she has transformed our approach to experiential learning. As our Outdoor Education Manager Emma enhances both the quality and capacity of our facilities.

Emma has a particular passion for windsurfing and paddle boarding, often enjoying water sports with her son and dog along the coast.

Lesley joined Releasing Potential in 2019 after having previously worked in primary provision and works as a Mentor 1:1 with students. She specialises in using her creative talents to support students in practical activities and runs our RP Printing business, offering work placements to Year 11 and post-16 students.

Carol is a qualified teacher and joined Releasing Potential in March 2021 as Functional Skills Lead; she has been Curriculum Lead since May 2022. Carol has a wealth of experience in teaching Functional Skills in FE colleges and for private training providers. She is responsible for overseeing the delivery of the curriculum within RP School. Carol is married with 2 children and enjoys travelling, spending time with her family and walking her two dogs.

Russell has returned to RP after a 7-year hiatus during which he has worked with a range of Youth Work organisations as a senior manager. He leads on behaviour, family liaison and transition – providing bespoke 1:1 sessions aimed at enabling students who have been out of education to transition to the RP School and access the full curriculum.

As our Special Educational Needs Coordinator, Janet brings specialist expertise to ensure our provision is truly inclusive. Overseeing our approach to annual reviews and Education, Health and Care Plans, Janet ensures that every young person’s individual learning needs are identified, understood and meaningfully supported.

Sarah has worked in education and the community for 22 years and has developed a passion for working with children with SEMH difficulties. She has a BA (Hons) in Childhood Studies and brings her enthusiasm for the outdoors to her work with students, having joined Releasing Potential in 2019 as a mentor working 1:1 with young people.

Nick joined Releasing Potential in October 2021 having previously worked as a teacher in an Independent SEN SEMH school and has a degree in Adventure Education and a PGCE in Primary Education. His background in the outdoors comes from the world of Paddlesport where he has worked with a variety of centres and clubs, helping to overhaul procedures whilst leading on British Canoeing and IOL inspections.