Sue Davison – Co-Founder. Director of Programmes and Development
Having worked in education since 1997 much of my experience has been with young people who struggle with achievement. I have worked both as a secondary school teacher, a Vocational Subject SENCO and as a specialist teacher in FE with learners who have significant emotional and behavioural problems and various barriers to learning,
I have successfully managed meaningful and supportive business and community engagement opportunities and set up a Business Ambassador Scheme engaging local employers with education. Connecting vulnerable young people to the wider world with a view to improving their life chances is my passion.
BA (hons) Business and Finance
PGCE Secondary Education.
Tracy Dobson – Director of Finance and Human Resources
I joined Foundation Futures CIC in July of 2016.
My background is in teaching, and I have 26 years of full time teaching and management experience in secondary education under my belt, including UK state schools, the private sector and 7 years working internationally in the Middle East. Prior to my teaching career I spent several years working in the area of finance through roles at Price Waterhouse accountants and Education Finance.
In addition to my role of Finance Director I also manage staff, training and run various community based projects.
BA Hons Economics
PGCE Economics & Business Education
PGDE Education
Jennie Dixon – Director of Youth and Community Engagement
Before joining Foundation Futures in 2017 I worked for The Prince’s Trust and in Further Education for over 7 years. Running the Team Programme I specialised in delivering personal and social development, employability, team building and communication. As a teacher and youth worker I have many years of experience working with young people with learning disabilities, challenging behaviour and poor mental health. I have a passion for youth work and began volunteering when I was still at school, this drives my ambition to increase opportunities in socially deprived areas.
In September 2021 I was delighted to accept my new position of Director of Youth and Community Engagement.
Georgia Bates - Building Foundations Team Leader
I joined Foundation Futures in January 2020 as an Assistant Team Leader. I am a Fine Art graduate from Northumbria University and have a background in community art, film, youth and charity work. I have worked as the Graduate Artist in Residence at Tyneside Cinema, have volunteered with Newcastle Arts Council and contract work with ‘Hen Power’ which seeks to improve the lives of older people in supported living. I am experienced in working with young people both in an education and community context. In September 2021 I was delighted to accept the role of Team Lead on the alternative Education programmes.
Sarah Twell - Building Foundations Assistant Team Leader
In September 2022 I began my role of Assistant Team Leader at Foundation Futures. I have previously worked with Foundation Futures through an artist residency starting in 2021, creating music and videos with children attending the youth groups. After graduating with a BA in Fine Art, I was given a ‘new graduate award’ from Middlesbrough Art Weekender and invited to create work for their art festival. I have delivered creative workshops for adults struggling with their mental health, school groups, and have experience working with children in a SEND school.
Pippi - Therapy Dog
Pippi is a fully insured therapy dog who has been supporting young people and communities since September 2021. Pippi works alongside Sue as part of ThisLife which aims to support young women and girls in school. Pippi also spends time in our base at Pottery Bank Community Centre where she can be found snoozing in her bed or sneaking a cheeky sausage from the cafe. Pippi is a great support for both the staff and the young people we work with providing us with plenty of cuddles and affection.
