Lyn Gray – Head Teacher – Currently on secondment

I started my teaching career in Scotland. I attended the University of Edinburgh and on receiving my degree began life as a classroom teacher in Aberdeen. I then moved to London in 1998 and have since taught in six different primary schools across four different local authorities covering the full range from Nursery to year 6 –  Where does the time go?

I joined Grove Road Primary School in November 2014 and love being part of such a diverse school with such interesting and dynamic children. I am very passionate about helping children to do their very best and reach their goals in exciting and challenging ways. This enthusiasm for learning and achieving is still a big part of me and reminds that every day and through everyone we meet there is an opportunity to learn and grow.

I live in Surrey with my husband and two young children and whenever I have time to myself I enjoy running and reading.

Natalie Parsons- Inclusion Leader & Red Class Teacher

I started my journey in education in 2005 when I studied at Roehampton University. I have worked in different boroughs and in different roles over time including lead for PSHE, RE, History, Maths, Assistant Head and SENCo. I joined Grove Road in April 2021 and have thoroughly enjoyed working with the dedicated staff and meeting the lovely children and their families. My role at Grove Road is Inclusion Leader, I have a passion for supporting all children to achieve their best and ensure their emotional well being is supported too.

Outside of work I enjoy spending time with my children, family and friends. I also enjoy reading and walking.

Grace Beckford – Acting Headteacher

It feels like a very long time ago, when I graduated from Roehampton University in 2009 with a BA in Primary Education.  I have been working at Grove Road since 2011, where before being the Acting Headteacher, I taught many different year groups.  I have always loved being a part of the Grove Road family and enjoy learning in a fun, creative way.  I  love being able to spend time working with all of the teachers and children to make Grove Road the best school it can be.

2023 was an exciting year for me, as it was the year that I became Acting Headteacher, having been the Deputy Headteacher since 2019.  Every day is a pleasure – I tell everyone I meet about our special, family school and what an honour it is to serve as Acting Headteacher.

My husband and I live in Sunbury and enjoy holidays and visiting places of interest when we can.  I also love reading (especially comics), writing a journal and spending time with my family.

Ms Alex Turner – Acting Deputy Headteacher

I was delighted to join the team at Grove Road in January 2024 and have been made to feel so welcome by the school community. I graduated from the Institute of Education in 2007, but before this I volunteered in special schools, taught English in primary schools in France and worked as a secondary French teacher in an independent school. I have worked in schools in Hounslow since qualifying as a teacher, and have been a class teacher, early literacy specialist teacher, SENCo, Assistant Headteacher and Acting Deputy Headteacher. My passions in education are music, French, early literacy and positive behaviour. Outside of school, I love to perform in and watch musical theatre, visit historical places with my family and read lots of books with my cat on my lap.

Jenny Johnson – Rainbow Class Teacher, ASC Centre Leader & KS1 Leader

I have been working at Grove Road Primary School since 2011, where my teaching career began in Year 2, after gaining a B Ed (Hons) from the University of Chester. Since being at Grove Road, I have enjoyed working with many wonderful children, staff and parents whilst being responsible for PSHE, RE, English and being a member of the Arts team. I have been fortunate enough to teach across many of the year groups in all three of the Key Stages. Each year group brings new and interesting opportunities whilst learning about a range of topics so I don’t think that I could pick a favourite. As Rainbow class teacher, I am enjoying seeing the children explore and learn through a wide range of experiences across the curriculum as they begin their learning journey.  I am a firm believer that you are never too old to learn and I have enjoyed looking for exciting and interesting courses and learning opportunities for staff as part of my role as CPD lead so that we are equipped with the most up to date knowledge and techniques to help our children shine. In my spare time I love reading, shopping, spending time with my family and friends and enjoying a range of food from different cuisines.

Lisa Griffiths – Orange Class Teacher & EYFS Leader

My name is Lisa Griffiths and I am the EYFS Leader and Reception class teacher at Grove Road.  I love teaching as every day is different and fun.  The best part of teaching is getting to know all the wonderful children and helping them with their learning.  When I am not at school, I enjoy spending time with my family, reading books, baking, going to theme parks and swimming.  My favourite food is pizza and my favourite colour is pink.  I have two children and we have a pet cat called Sunny who loves to fall asleep on people.

Harsimar Kaur – Yellow Class Teacher

I joined Grove Road in January 2024. I am so happy to be a part of the team here and help encourage our children to achieve success. Ever since I was a child, I’ve wanted to be a teacher. I used to play ‘teachers’ with my cousins growing up and now I have my own class of little ones to teach, my dream came true! Seeing the happy, smiling faces makes my day every day.

My hobbies are reading, writing, knitting and watching Formula One! I love to share what new books I find with the children during story time

Miss Aoife McGarrity – Green Class Teacher

Hi! I am Miss McGarrity. I love reading, doing mindfulness and colouring during my spare time. I also love watching Gaelic football. I enjoy travelling and going back to my home country Ireland to visit all my family. My favourite food by far is pasta!

I am enjoying my first-year teaching at Grove Road- especially being with Green Class and meeting all the Grove Road family. I can’t wait to experience the many trips and celebrations throughout the year, especially Taste of Grove Road.

Lucy Cotter – Blue Class Teacher

I have been teaching for two and a half years and am really excited to be continuing my journey with Grove Road.  Before training to be a teacher, I was a Teaching Assistant for about five years.  I really enjoy learning with the children and watching them discover how the world works.  I did an Open University degree in Childhood and Youth studies whilst my own children were small and then a PGCE at St Marys University.  In my spare time I like musical theatre, knitting socks, reading and long walks.

Olivia Sheldrake – Indigo Class Teacher

I joined Grove Road in September 2022 after completing a PGCE in Primary Education at St Mary’s University. I’m so excited that I get to teach year 4! Having grown up as a childminder’s daughter, I’ve been around a wide range of children of all ages and often chose to spend my school holidays looking after them because it was so much fun. Through this experience, I’ve seen the value of educating children with a mindset of giving them a space to be themselves, explore their curiosities and feel loved.

Outside of school I love playing guitar, doing ballet, looking after my gerbils, reading and writing fiction poetry.

Farhana Letzelter – Violet Class Teacher

Teachers and support staff play an important role in shaping the lives of young individuals. They inspire, motivate and encourage learners and guide them to make a positive impression in their community and the world around them. They hold great responsibilities and are widely skilled in helping children across all ages, languages, ethnicities, subjects and abilities. There are challenges, rewards and triumphs in this profession.

For these reasons, my passion for teaching young learners was ignited and I embarked on my career path into teaching in 2007 when I acquired a position in a primary school as a Teaching Assistant. Over the years, my accumulated experience and skills allowed me opportunities for career progression as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant and then onwards to becoming a Special Educational Needs Assistant to the SENDCo. As my interest in the pedagogy of children increased,  combined with the desire to become a qualified teacher, my next challenge was to study for a BA honours in SEN and Inclusive Practice at Kingston University which I completed in 2021.

I joined Grove Road Primary School in September 2021 and I am very happy being a part of the friendly and diverse school community.

In my spare time, I enjoy reading, going to the gym (when I feel motivated!) and going for long walks with my dog.

Hayley Glenister – Gold Class Teacher and KS2 Phase Leader

I am thrilled to be a part of the incredible team at Grove Road Primary School. My teaching journey began in 2018, after I successfully completed a PGCE with a PE Specialism at St Mary’s University. Several years into my teaching career, I pursued my Master’s Degree from the Open University, graduating in 2023, focusing on inclusion in the classroom and curriculum. I have had the privilege of teaching in various schools, which has equipped me with invaluable experiences and knowledge that I now apply in my current practice.

Having taught across Key Stage 1 and 2, I am deeply passionate about promoting equality and inclusion. I am dedicated to creating a neurodiverse-friendly classroom where every child feels respected, supported, and empowered to succeed. Central to my teaching philosophy is a commitment to pupil mental well-being, which I view as fundamental to a child’s overall development. I strive to create a safe and nurturing space where students feel confident expressing themselves and growing.

Outside of school, I lead a busy life as a mum of two teenage boys who keep me on my toes. I’m also an animal lover, sharing our home with cats, rabbits, guinea pigs, and fish. In my free time, I indulge in my love for books and movies, with a particular fondness for Harry Potter and Marvel films. I also enjoy the movie Inside Out, including the new one! I am slowly ticking off my bucket list of musicals, with The Lion King and Mrs Doubtfire being particular favourites.

Sam Patankar – Centre HLTA

I began my journey at Grove Road Primary school 20 years ago and I’m still a part of the furniture. I started as a mid-day supervisor and now I am a very experienced HLTA. I have had the chance to work in all classes from EYFS to year 6. I specialise in behaviour management and I’m part of the inclusion team. I enjoy working with children from diverse backgrounds and supporting them on a daily basis.

In my spare time I love spending time with my friends, family, eating out and cooking. I’m a very enthusiastic, warm and welcoming individual always ready for a challenge therefore I’m well suited in my role.

Mrs Belinda Pereira – Centre TA

I began my career in education over 20 years ago, driven by a deep passion for helping others. Over time, I discovered my true calling—supporting individuals with special educational needs (SEN). My journey into SEN began when I volunteered to work with adults with learning difficulties, and it ignited a profound desire to make a difference. Since then, I have worked extensively with children with severe special needs in special schools, honing my skills and deepening my commitment. In 2023, I joined Grove Road Primary School and am blessed to work in the Rainbow Centre. The staff here are incredibly kind and welcoming, serving as wonderful role models for our children. It truly feels like a family, and I am honoured to serve this community.

Amy Shub – Centre TA

I started a childcare course at Kingston college in 2019 for 2 years. In 2020, I spent my time here at Grove Road completing a student placement with the EYFS team. The staff here are so welcoming and made me feel comfortable not only to work with but to support my confidence in my course I was doing. I enjoyed it so much here I decided to apply to work here. I have been able to extend my experience of childcare over time and help all children learn whilst they are growing to become bigger individuals.

In my spare time, I enjoy cooking and spending time with my family. I also enjoy going on holidays.

Patrick Ely – Centre TA

I have recently joined Grove Road Primary School and have been stunned by how kind and welcoming the staff and students have been to me. I am currently working in the ASC Centre and offering learning support in the classroom. As a child I was diagnosed with ADHD and dyslexia so I’m always motivated to offer the level of support, motivation and kindness that teachers, Learning Support Staff, and my parents offered me as a child.
I will be doing my teacher training next academic year so I’m really looking forward to learning from the fantastic examples set by my colleagues!
Outside of work I enjoy reading, writing plays and meeting up with my friends and family.

My name is Tyrone Polius. I started working at Grove Road Primary in March 2024 as a teaching assistant. I realised I had an interest in working with children when I used to do youth work at the weekends, doing various activities with children of different ages. I believe working at Grove Road has helped me develop and learn some new skills. Ive also enjoyed my time there so far working with other members of staff, helping children reach their potential. I also find it rewarding having the opportunity to see the children progress.

Caroline Allen – SEN TA

Bini Bharaj – Red Class HLTA

I have been working at Grove Road Primary School since January 2010. I have been working in the Early Years Nursery and Reception classes, also in Year 2. I really love coming to this school and working here.  I have learnt so much and it is a great experience working with the children, parents and staff here.

In my spare time I enjoy doing babysitting, going out with friends and spending time with my family.

Daniella Maguire – Orange Class HLTA

Lakvir Dhaliwal  – Yellow Class TA

Mehreen Musa – Green Class TA

My journey in childcare started when I took on an apprenticeship in a day nursery. Through this, I gained knowledge and experince working with children. I joined Grove Road in September 2024, to further my career by completing my degree alongside working as a class TA. I am glad to have joined the Grove Road team where I look forward to learning and growing. In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my friends and looking after my pets.

Svitlana Taran – Blue Class HLTA

For a number of years I’ve been working at primary schools as an HLTA, teaching all year groups.

 Bushra Bhatti – Indigo Class HLTA

Prior to joining Grove Road Primary school as HLTA in April 2023, I had the experience of seven years as a teaching assistant in another school. Making a positive difference in children’s lives gave me an immense sense of joy and satisfaction.

Grove Road is very special to me as it was the primary school of my daughters and I have also seen the journey of progress as a parent.

I live in Hounslow with my husband and daughters. I also serve the community through various projects and exhibitions for peace and interfaith harmony. In my spare time I enjoy research, travelling and spending quality time with family and friends.

Sarah Cheeseman – Violet Class HLTA

I was born in London but lived in different countries for most of my life until settling back in London in 2012. My background is in languages and Middle Eastern studies; I also studied education through the Open University. I have worked in a range of schools and community development projects.
I enjoy reading historical novels, learning new languages (and improving the ones I have studied so far), spending time with my children, and watching my favourite drama on TV.
I’m new to Grove Road this year, and am already enjoying learning snippets of some of the Grove Road children’s home languages which they are teaching me.

Chloe Romp – Gold Class HLTA

Yasmin Abdi – School Librarian

I have been working at Grove Road since 2018 as the Librarian.  I enjoy working here and I feel so lucky to be part of the school.  Out of work, I am a Mum of 3 daughters and a son.  My spare time is spent with them and we love doing art and sharing stories.

Mrs Henriequitta Pires – Pastoral Support

My journey at Grove Road Primary School began in 2019, where I had the privilege of working as a SEN Support Teaching Assistant. I have truly enjoyed my role as Pastoral Leader, fostering connections and supporting our students and their families. The sense of community at Grove Road is palpable, and I feel honoured to contribute to such a nurturing environment.

In 2021, I took on a new challenge at a Young Offenders Institution as a Learning Support Assistant. This experience profoundly shaped me, allowing me to develop my skills and gain insights into the complexities of youth support. By attending CORE and Enhanced Support team meetings and collaborating with external professionals, I not only grew as an individual but also gained a deeper understanding of the community’s needs. My time there also provided me with opportunities to apply my counselling skills during one-on-one and group interventions, further enhancing my ability to make a positive impact.

Now, as a qualified counsellor and psychotherapist registered with the BACP, I am excited to bring these skills back to Grove Road. I am committed to supporting our students in their personal growth and well-being, reinforcing the strong sense of community that makes our school so special.

Sharon Hancock – Admin. Officer 

I came to Grove Road in June 2017 after working in three other primary schools over 13 years. Although passionate about the other schools I have worked in I have found Grove Road to be the most welcoming with its diverse culture. Everyday presents a new challenge which can be both rewarding and demanding in equal measures. Through the support of our parents and their amazing children there is nothing that cannot be achieved. I feel honoured to have met some amazing families and look forward to meeting many more in years to come.

Penny Cushen- Admin. Officer

I started my time at Grove Road in 2015 after working at my last school for 17 years as a TA/SMSA.  I have worked across the school from EYFS-Year 6 and have enjoyed every moment of working with children from diverse backgrounds and supporting them on a daily basis.  In September 2020,  I was given the opportunity to change my role and to  work as an Admin Assistant in the office, which for me is a great  challenge, but one that I am enjoying!

In my spare time, I like to spend quality time with my family & Friends and going to the Theatre.

Mandeep Grewal – Chef Manager

I have been at Grove Road since 2020 and absolutely love it here.  I am the Chef Manager and enjoy seeing the children at lunchtime and introducing different foods to them which can sometimes be challenging, puddings however are not a problem!  I played hockey at school and college and now enjoy playing the sport with my two children.

Noshaba Ibrahim – Chef Assistant

I love working at Grove Road Primary School because the staff are incredibly welcoming. Assisting in the kitchen and serving the children brings me a lot of joy. I live in Feltham with my family, and in my spare time, I enjoy watching and sometimes playing cricket together with them.

Narinder Saini – SMSA

I have been working at Grove Road Primary school since 2017 and I have really enjoyed my time here and continue to do so.
I think it is very rewarding to supervise and play with the kids during their lunch hour and in addition to this, providing any first aid and sorting any problems in the playground.
In my spare time, I enjoy cooking, travelling, spending time with my family and going for long walks with our pet dog.

Harjeet Mudhar – SMSA

I have been working as an SMSA since 2016 at Grove Road primary school, I absolutely love working with the children everyday as well as having sympathetic and amazing colleagues.

I enjoy cooking and trying out new things everyday and being able to build better relationships with the children and teachers.

John Davis – Caretaker

After joining the Grove Road Primary school team in June 2018, my time here has been overwhelmingly enjoyable. My role has given me the opportunity to give something back to our community on a daily basis. Making me feel very proud to call myself the caretaker at our beautiful school.

Carolina D’Costa – Cleaner

I began working at Grove Road Primary School 3 years ago. I’m very happy to be a part of this amazing school as all staff are so welcoming and kind. I live in Hounslow with my family and in my spare time I enjoy cleaning and cooking.

Harjeet Mudhar – Cleaner

I have been working as an SMSA since 2016 at Grove Road primary school, I absolutely love working with the children everyday as well as having sympathetic and amazing colleagues.

I enjoy cooking and trying out new things everyday and being able to build better relationships with the children and teachers.