Across Co-op Academies Trust, incredible women are making a difference every day - leading, inspiring and encouraging action to drive gender equality. 

This International Women's Day, we celebrate the achievements, resilience and impact of some of the incredible women across our Trust. Aligned with this year’s theme, #AccelerateAction, we recognise those who drive change, champion equality and empower future generations across our academies.

We invited colleagues across the Trust to nominate the inspirational women they work with, and the response was overwhelming! From countless nominations, we’ve highlighted just a few of the remarkable women who go above and beyond in their roles, inspiring both students and colleagues with their dedication, vision and expertise.

Carol Mitzi

Carol Mitzi is an inspiring role model in estates and facilities management, excelling in a traditionally male-dominated field. She embodies Co-op values with dedication, passion and a great sense of humour. Fearless in tackling challenges, Carol’s care for others and unwavering commitment make her an inspiration to all.

 

Zarina Ali

Zarina is a strong leader as headteacher at Co-op Academy Swinton who empowers her team and especially the women around her. She understands the work / life balance that can be difficult for women in education and always seeks ways to promote positive mental health and wellbeing.

 

Susan Pratt

Support Assistant at Co-op Academy Southfield, Susan Pratt, has dedicated over 20 years at the school. Always putting students first, at nearly 70, she remains a reliable, hardworking, and good natured person. From early starts to after-school clubs, she goes above and beyond. Her commitment and kindness make her truly inspirational.

Rimah Aasim

Rimah Aasim, Executive Headteacher at Co-op Academy Princeville and Oakwood, is a passionate leader dedicated to student success. She fosters inclusive, high-achieving environments and promotes our Ways of Being, empowering students and staff while driving positive change in education.

 

Ruth Nutton-Jones

Ruth has always been a pillar of strength to colleagues at Co-op Academy Medlock. Caring and compassionate, she is dedicated to bringing the community and the school together. Working in a school, especially as a leader, can be challenging but parents and colleagues look up to her as an inspiration in the school community.

Gemma Rothenburg

Gemma leads on behaviour at Co-op Academy Grange and works tirelessly to improve the culture at the school without imitating dominant leadership behaviours. She is a great role model of strong female leadership for staff, pupils and parents within the community.
 

Mandy Bawden

Mandy Bawden is a PE teacher at Co-op Academy Walkden and leads the school's Cadet's programme. She is a role model for students, bringing her determination and strength into her teaching role, especially by showing our girls that there are no limits to what they can achieve.

 

Karine Hendley

Karine is the Regional Director for West Yorkshire and has been an incredible advocate for our academies. She provides incredible expertise and guidance to all, not just those within her region. Karine provides challenge and support to everyone to get the best outcomes for our pupils.
 

Elizabeth Clewlow

Liz has spent six years passionately championing high-quality education in Stoke-on-Trent. She has led Co-op Academy Florence MacWilliams from inception to reality, empowering students and colleagues alike. A STEM advocate, she inspires girls to pursue their potential, proving that background is no barrier to success. Her dedication and vision are truly transformative.

Ruth Agnew

Ruth has been recognised in The King’s New Year’s Honours List for her services to education and will receive the prestigious title of Member of the British Empire (MBE). Her work within Co-op Academies Trust has had a transformative effect on our schools and as Chief People and Governance Officer, has played a pivotal role in ensuring that the Trust maintains strong governance and a culture of inclusivity and excellence.