We are delighted to announce our latest Associate Scholar, Dr Vanessa Mitchell. Vanessa is a serving school senior leader and an educationalist with over 15 years of experience across a range of academic settings, including more than ten years in leadership roles such as Assistant Head, Deputy Principal, Head of Sixth Form, and Head of Department. Vanessa has a strong academic and research background and is a published researcher, having presented at a variety of international conferences. Alongside her academic background, Vanessa has a strong passion for pastoral care, wellbeing, and student development. She has worked closely with a range of professionals and external agencies, organised wellbeing initiatives and events, and successfully led a school through accreditation for the Wellbeing Award for Schools and was shortlisted for Pastoral Leader of the Year UK by the National Association of Pastoral Care in Education. Vanessa also has an active interest in empowering women and girls and, through strong professional networks. We are delighted to welcome Vanessa and look forward to her valuable contribution.