Angelou School is named after Maya Angelou, the famous poet and civil rights activist. Maya Angelou was an advocate for the importance of language and education, particularly for young women, and believed wholeheartedly in the rights of all people. Her words and actions teach each Angelou students about the importance of resilience, compassion, self-improvement and self-love. The incredible work of Maya Angelou is an inspiration and sets the tone for the ethos that we aim to instil within our students.
We promote and celebrate growth mindset within the school and as Maya Angelou said,
We may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated.
Following my degree in Winchester, I moved to Brighton to qualify as an English teacher. Since graduating I have worked in several schools in the South East. My Varndean journey began in 2013. I became Assistant Headteacher in 2021 and am proud to lead Angelou School alongside Mr Whiteman. I am passionate about inclusion at Varndean and empowering all learners to succeed.
Hello, my name is Mr Whiteman and I am the Deputy Head of Angelou School. I studied teaching at the University of Brighton completing a BA (Honours) in Physical Education. After completing my degree, I went on to teaching PE and later introduced the teaching of English as well. I progressed my career on to middle management with a real focus in the pastoral element of school life and have been enjoying this role for the last 7 years.
My vision and ethos is to be firm, fair, consistent and approachable. I want Angelou to be the best school at Varndean and will strive to make this happen. If you have any questions or need any support please either contact me by phone or email on samwhiteman@varndean.co.uk
My name is Jo Goatley and I am a School Leader in Angelou Base. I have had a long career in education, working with young people in various roles.
It is a privilege to be part of the Angelou Team, where we support students' wellbeing, enabling them to feel supported and motivated to realise their own potential.
As School Leader I believe it is important getting to know students as individuals, linking with families to offer a holistic approach.
Please contact me on extension 260 or email me at jogoatley@varndean.co.uk
