Tristan Keates

Principal

Tristan is a qualified Science Teacher and SENCo. He has been a SENCo in two schools as well as a 16-19 Academy. He is an experienced senior leader, including working as a headteacher of a pupil referral unit. Tristan has also established two alternative provisions in different local authorities. He joins Make it different direct from a role as Director of Inclusion for another multi academy trust.

Tristan is passionate about supporting students with SEN. He is the parent of a child with SEN and believes every child should be supported to reach their potential. His values align with the Make it different values of; Kindness, A Growth Mindset, Resilience and Personal Responsibilities.

Tristan has a problem-solving approach and believes in a partnership approach with parents and young people. He also wants Hartlepool free school to be at the centre of the Hartlepool community with students actively engaging in the community and local groups and companies having an input into the school. The power of working together to ensure the best outcomes for our young people means we really can make it different for Hartlepool.

Rick Kitson

Deputy Principal

Rick is the Deputy Principal, SENCo and Designated Safeguarding Lead at Hartlepool Free School.

Rick has worked with children in Hartlepool with Special Educational Needs and Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs for over 14 years, including in his previous role as SEMH and Wellbeing Lead. Rick has broad experience and training in delivering various therapies and brings this knowledge and experience to his role. He s passionate about helping students with SEMH needs to break down the barriers to their learning and to empower them to be the best person they can be.

Sarah Harrington

Operations and Finance Manager

Sarah has been the Operations and Finance Manager at Hartlepool Free School since it opened.

Sarah started her career working at Bishopsgarth Secondary School where she worked in the Administration Team, and then progressed to Business Manager for 18 years.

From there, Sarah moved to Prior Pursglove and Stockton Sixth Form College as PA to the CEO and Principal. Sarah then progressed as Business Development Manager and remained at the college for 7 years. In her current role Sarah enjoys working closely with the students and supporting staff. She is often heard saying that the days she does not enjoy are when the students are not in the building!