Meet Our Team

  • Gail Smallman - Company Director

    Hairdressing has been a constant in my working life. I started as an apprentice at the age of 16. By the age of 21 I was teaching Hairdressing NVQ Levels 1, 2 & 3 for County Training. I did this for seven years, working my way up to Salon Supervisor in Ludlow and Wellington. During my years at County Training I was an important part of delivering the Level 1 Provision to 14 - 16 year old's in Telford.

    I have been in the Hairdressing industry over 30 years and I have owned my own successful business for 23 years. Over the past 9 years I have concentrated on delivering training for the hair and beauty industry allowing me to keep up an assessment practice. I have a passion for Hairdressing and teaching and love watching learners progress in our industry. I am now excited to be developing our construction and vehicle maintenance offer to our schools in Shropshire and Telford as well as post-16 learners.

  • Charlotte Walder - Education Director

    I started my hairdressing career when I left school at 16 when I attended County Training and carried out an NVQ Level 2 in hairdressing. I worked at a few salons situated in Shrewsbury town centre. In 2015 I started my career in Barbering and worked at a Barbers for approximately 3 years before leaving and joining the team here at RENU Training Academy.

    I started working at RENU in 2019. I started out Teaching and Assessing NVQ Level 2 & 3 in hairdressing. Since starting I have successfully completed numerous courses and qualifications including my Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement, Level 3 Award in Education and Training, Level 3 Diploma in Hairdressing, Level 4 Internal Quality Assurance, and my Level 4 Certificate in Leading the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment Processes and Practice.

    September 2023, I became Education Manager. Within this role I oversee all Hair, Beauty, Construction, Vehicle maintenance and Catering delivery within schools around Shropshire. Focusing predominantly on pre-16 learners.

    As of November 2024 I have now become a director of the Training Academy and my new role is Education Director. I am passionate about supporting all people, no matter what age, to gain the skills and knowledge needed so they live a fulfilling career.

  • Zoe Watkins - Vocational Lead

    After leaving school I went to work in hospitality. I then started my family and had positions in schools as the work hours complemented my circumstances. Now my children are at an age where I can follow the career I always wanted to do.  

    7 years ago, I started my journey into the hair industry, I became the apprentice at RENU Hair and Beauty, and I am now fully qualified and work as a stylist as well as teaching.

    Currently, I am teaching post-16 learners directly from Local Authorities Level 1 Hairdressing. I also deliver NVQ Level 2 Hairdressing, which I love passing on my skills to. It is thoroughly enjoyable to see learners gain confidence as well as qualifications.  

    I have achieved my Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement, NVQ Level 2 Manicure Certificate, NVQ Level 2 Pedicure Certificate, Gel Nails Certificate and Level 3 Award in Education and Training as well as just completing my Level 4 Internal Quality Assurance. 

  • Jess Szklarzewicz - Vocational Tutor

    Hair and Beauty

    I have been working in the beauty industry for 16 years, I hold a levels 2 and 3 qualifications in Beauty Therapy, I also went onto university and achieved my Level 5 teaching qualification. When I was carrying out this qualification, I did 2 years’ work experience within TCAT College, to gain teaching experience.

    Since starting at RENU, I have also achieved my NVQ Level 1 Hairdressing and Level 3 Assessing Vocational Achievement I am also excited to be working towards my Level 4 Internal Quality Assurance qualification. I am always eager to gain more knowledge and training which means I can then pass this onto my learners to further develop their skills. While working with RENU I have had experience working with VTCT Entry level 3 and Level 1 Hair and Beauty qualifications. Presently, I am working within the schools delivering Hair and Beauty knowledge and skills to pre-16 learners.

  • Silvy Scott - Vocational Tutor

    Hair and Beauty

    When I left school, I went on to complete my A levels. I have an A level in English language and literature, I also have an A level in Art.

    I am qualified in Level 2 and 3 Beauty Therapy and have worked as a nail technician for 9 years within a salon. I always ensure that I am keeping up with the latest trends and treatments within the Beauty industry.

    I have worked in salons, spas and clinics. I love this industry and I have always wanted to become a tutor to pass on my knowledge, skills and passion. In 2023 I joined RENU to fulfil my passion in teaching, I am enjoying passing on my skills and knowledge and helping learners reach their goals.

    Since joining RENU I have completed my Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement, Level 1 Hairdressing as well as my Level 3 Award in Education and Training

  • Lucy Bowkett - Teaching Assistant

    Hairdressing / Intervention

    I began my career in hairdressing immediately after leaving school, starting with work experience in a salon which quickly progressed into a full-time position. I went on to achieve a Diploma Level 2 in Hairdressing, NVQ Level 2 in Hairdressing, Diploma Level 2 in Barbering, Level 2 in Retail in Hairdressing, and completed my studies with a Diploma Level 3 in Hairdressing.

    With over 15 years of experience in the hair industry, I have developed strong communication, organisational, and problem-solving skills, alongside the ability to remain calm and professional in fast-paced environments. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time within the industry; however, after starting my family, I felt inspired to transition into a role where I could use my experience to positively influence others, share my knowledge, and support individuals in reaching their full potential.

    To support this career progression, I achieved my Level 3 Assessor qualification and Level 3 Award in Education and Training. I have since progressed into my role at Renu Training, where I am committed to continuously developing my skills, expanding my knowledge, and maintaining the highest standards in teaching and learning.

  • Adam Walder - Teaching Assistant

    Intervention

    I spent nearly 10 years working as a Shift Leader in a children’s residential care home, where I developed a strong sense of responsibility, resilience, and the ability to remain calm and effective under pressure. This role strengthened my understanding of supporting young people with a range of needs and building positive, trusting relationships.

    I am now looking forward to working with young people at Renu, supporting their academic development and helping to equip them with the skills and confidence needed to succeed in life. I am passionate about making a positive difference and creating opportunities for individuals to achieve their potential.

    Outside of work, I enjoy sport, travel, and experiencing new opportunities, which helps me stay motivated and open-minded.

  • John Hill - Vocational Tutor

    Construction

    I started an apprenticeship once I left school and worked for a company for 4 years, where I completed my NVQ City and Guilds level 2 in Brickwork. Once qualified I decided I wanted to start my own company which I still own and run to this date.

    Throughout my career as a business owner, I have supported apprentices every 2-3 years as I feel it is important to offer young people the opportunity to learn whilst working. I really enjoy helping learners through their qualifications and passing on knowledge that was given to me. This made me want to help others, so I created Learning Trade Skills LTD to teach all aspects of construction. I had been doing this for a while teaching adults and then wanted to develop my skills to teach younger learners.

    We then partnered with RENU at the start of 2024 and with their help, LTS more avenues have opened up to us. including offering courses to pre-16 learners within secondary education and now post-16 learners.

    Personally, since partnering with RENU I have completed my Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement and now working towards my Level 4 Award in the Internal Quality Assurance of Assessment processes and practice.

  • Vince Knowles - Vocational Tutor

    Health and Safety/Construction

    I have been around construction and the site environment for many years whilst also undertaking estate maintenance, where an accident at work in 2014 cut that career path short. This led to me retraining as a C&G carpenter and that led me on to becoming passionate about safety. I have since gained my IOSH in health and safety, my C&G 2377-77 in service inspection and testing of electrical equipment. I have recently gained my C&G Level 3 Award in Education and Training which has enabled me to teach both H&S and Carpentry/ property maintenance. I’m also just starting my Assessors qualifications. I believe that everyone should be able to achieve their goals.

  • Dean Peate - Vocational Tutor

    Vehicle Maintenance

    From the age of 13 I started working on cars with my Dad doing mechanics and welding fabrication and was hooked. When I left school I attended college where I completed 3 years to gain levels 1 2 & 3 in motor vehicle mechanics. I also did introductory welding at college where I continued doing welding & fabrication at a part time job around my college courses. I held down 2 jobs in the welding fabrication industry while still having a big interest in cars & bikes. In 2016 I decided to go self-employed which I am still doing at present. I've always enjoyed passing on my knowledge to others so when the opportunity arose in the teaching world I grabbed it and I've now been teaching for 12 months and completed my Level 3 Certificate in Assessing Vocational Achievement. Working with a range of ages is so rewarding seeing their knowledge and skills develop over time.

  • Andy Dorricott

    Andy Dorricott - Vocational Tutor

    Construction / Vehicle Maintenance

    From the age of 12-13 I have enjoyed making and fixing things. I also realised I loved to earn money so tried to combine both.

    Once I'd finished school, I went straight into work within a painting and decorating company. I spent 4 years there learning and perfecting my trade as well as learning how to do this cost effectively.

    I then decided to go self-employed and that journey has taken me to learn extra skills in carpentry and plastering. As well as enjoying my construction trade I also have a keen interest in vehicle maintenance and taught myself a lot about how engines work and how to do thing on my own and others cars.

    I volunteer at my local karate club teaching adults and children. This made me realise I have a passion for teaching and passing my knowledge on to others.

    To encourage this I have recently taken up a role with Learning Trade Skills and RENU Training Academy where I am able to pass on my knowledge of the construction and vehicle maintenance industries to young minds.

  • Kim Nickless - Pastoral / Tutor

    ELSA / Intervention / Safeguarding Lead

    I am a highly experienced education professional with over 15 years of working across diverse learning environments. I currently hold the responsibility of Pastoral Lead for Ignite (pre-16) learners, where I am dedicated to supporting student wellbeing, personal development, and positive outcomes.

    In addition to my pastoral responsibilities, I serve as a Safeguarding Lead, playing a vital role in ensuring the safety, protection, and welfare of young people. I am also a trained Emotional Literacy Support Assistant (ELSA), providing targeted interventions to help students develop emotional awareness, resilience, and coping strategies.

    Outside of my professional life, I value spending quality time with her family, enjoys walking her dog, and regularly visits my static caravan in Wales. I also have a strong interest in health and wellbeing and enjoys going to the gym.

  • Liz Sheppard - Post-16 / Pastoral Lead / Safeguarding Lead

    From a young age, I was passionate about working with horses, which led me to study at Rodbaston College in Staffordshire at the age of 16. There, I achieved a National Diploma in Horse Studies as well as British Horse Society Stages 1–3. After gaining practical experience on a dressage yard, I realised my career ambitions were shifting, and I chose to pursue my interest in English by completing a degree at the University of Wolverhampton.

    Following graduation, I explored a range of career opportunities before finding my true passion in education and working with young people. I began teaching English and mathematics at North Shropshire College, where I gained valuable classroom experience and a deeper understanding of how education can shape learners’ futures. After a period working in the waste management sector, I was drawn back to teaching, delivering an Access to Higher Education programme for adults.

    My career then took me into a care setting in Whitchurch, where I taught English for two years. This role not only allowed me to support learners academically but also highlighted the importance of pastoral care. It was through this experience that I developed a strong commitment to supporting the holistic needs of learners, recognising that emotional and social wellbeing is vital to success.

    In September, I joined Renu as Post-16/Pastoral Lead, with additional responsibility as Safeguarding Lead. My role centres on supporting learners across our sites, ensuring they are listened to, valued, and provided with the opportunities they need to achieve their goals in their chosen vocational pathways. I am passionate about creating an inclusive, supportive environment where every learner can thrive, both personally and academically.

  • Charlie Bingham - Teaching Assistant

    Construction / Vehicle Maintenance

    I started my career as an apprentice with British Telecom, following various promotions I designed equipment, became a trainer and then a Field Operations Manager.

    I have also been a partner in a catering company and in a property company. In addition, after leaving British Telecom I have worked in various engineering environments from railways to electrical.

    On retirement I decided to become a teaching assistant, I have worked at various schools in Wolverhampton, Telford and Newport.

    My main interests are motorcycling in both UK and Europe, also classic cars, countryside, travelling and rock/blues music.

  • Sammy Weaver - Vocational Tutor / Teaching Assistant

    Hair / Beauty

    I am a qualified hairdresser, having successfully completed both my Level 2 and Level 3 NVQ in Hairdressing since leaving school. I continue to apply and develop my practical skills by providing hair services for family and friends, maintaining a high standard of work and professionalism.

    Alongside this, I have gained valuable experience working with learners with special educational needs in a SEN school in Shrewsbury. This role has strengthened my communication, patience, and adaptability, enabling me to support individuals with a range of needs effectively.

    I am a caring and motivated individual who is passionate about helping others. I take great pride in supporting people to build confidence, develop their skills, and achieve their full potential. I am now looking to further develop my career in a role where I can combine my practical abilities with my enthusiasm for supporting and working with others.