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Natasha Porter
Chief Executive Officer at Unlocked Graduates
Professional Background
Natasha Porter is a dynamic and dedicated leader in the education sector, known for her innovative approach to learning and her commitment to social justice. She is currently serving as the Chief Executive Officer of Unlocked Graduates, an organization that addresses the educational needs of individuals who have been imprisoned, empowering them to redefine their futures through education. Natasha's career has been characterized by her unwavering focus on transforming educational opportunities and advocating for marginalized communities.
With a foundation rooted in teaching, Natasha began her professional journey as an English teacher with Teach First, an initiative aimed at attracting talented graduates into challenging schools across the UK. There, she honed her skills in curriculum development and classroom management while inspiring students to achieve academic success. Her passion for education and commitment to leadership quickly led to her role as a Founding Teacher and Senior Leader at King Solomon Academy, where she implemented innovative teaching strategies and played a significant part in shaping educational policy from the ground up.
Driven by a desire to impact policy at a broader scale, Natasha transitioned to the role of Deputy Head of Education at Policy Exchange. In this influential position, she contributed to vital discussions around educational reform and the importance of equity in education. Following this, she took on the role of Policy Fellow at the Department for Education, where she continued to advocate for improvements in educational policy, with a particular focus on evidence-driven strategies to enhance teaching and learning outcomes.
One of Natasha's significant contributions to the field came during her time as a Consultant for the Prison Education Review at the Ministry of Justice UK. Here, she played a crucial role in addressing the educational barriers faced by those within the prison system, advocating for reforms that would unlock educational opportunities and improve rehabilitation. Her insights and expertise have been instrumental in shaping a more inclusive approach to education within the justice system.
Education and Achievements
Natasha Porter earned her Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) in English Language and Literature from the prestigious University of Warwick, an institution known for its commitment to academic excellence and research. Her education laid the groundwork for her future endeavors in teaching and educational leadership. At Warwick, Natasha developed a keen analytical mindset and a deep understanding of the sociocultural aspects of language and communication, skills which have proven invaluable in her career.
Throughout her journey, Natasha has demonstrated a consistent commitment to lifelong learning and personal development. She has participated in various professional development programs focused on leadership in education, policy-making, and organizational management. Her ongoing engagement with educational research ensures she remains at the forefront of emerging educational trends.
Notable Achievements
- Chief Executive Officer of Unlocked Graduates: Under Natasha's leadership, Unlocked Graduates has grown to become a pivotal force in supporting individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds, enabling them to pursue meaningful careers in education.
- Consultant for Prison Education Review: Natasha played a vital role in advocating for educational reforms within the prison system, emphasizing the importance of education as a means of rehabilitation.
- Leadership at King Solomon Academy: As a founding teacher and senior leader, she significantly contributed to the school's inception and development, setting a high standard for educational excellence.
- Impactful Policy Work: As a former Deputy Head of Education at Policy Exchange and Policy Fellow at the Department for Education, she has influenced key educational policies that support equity and improvement in education across the UK.
Natasha Porter is not only a figure of inspiration within the education sector but also a prominent advocate for social justice through educational equity. Her impressive blend of experience, knowledge, and passion continues to influence and inspire teachers, policymakers, and students alike.