Meet the Sixth Form Team
Jackie Walton -Director of Post 16 Studies
Subject Specialty: Psychology and English
I came to Kent in 1988 to study Psychology at The University of Kent and followed that up with a Post Graduate qualification in English Literature and Religious Education. In recent years I have also qualified as a yoga teacher. An avid reader, I often combine my interest in psychology and literature by reading a wide range of psychological novels. Outside of college, I have travelled widely; most memorably driving a Fiat Punto to Mongolia to raise money for charity.
Stuart Davies -Deputy Director of Post 16 Studies
Subject Specialty: History
I’m a former Astor College pupil who left in 2005. I completed a joint honours degree in History and Politics at the University of Kent. I’m a passionate Historian who has visited many historical places of importance including Auschwitz. I’m also a keen sportsman who has completed the London Triathlon and Milton Keynes Marathon.
Victoria Chamberlain
Subject Specialty: Dance
I completed my BA Honours Degree in Education at Christchurch University and started working at Astor College in 2003. I am passionate about all aspects of the Performing Arts and am fortunate enough to have travelled the world as a result. I enjoy trips to the Theatre and spending time with my family and friends.
Joe Wilkinson
Subject Specialty: Geography
I was born in Zambia but have grown up in Kent. I have a degree in Earth and Ocean sciences from the University of Liverpool and went on to gain a doctorate in Environmental Sciences. I am passionate about marine conservation and my studies have enabled me to work on marine conservation and education programmes in a number of countries including Malaysia, Vietnam and The Philippines.
Sally Messenger
Subject speciality: Psychology
I love to travel and am extremely passionate about mental health and raising awareness of it. I lived in Sri Lanka for four months and completed a graduate mental health programme where I led therapy sessions at the National Institute of Mental Health. Whilst in Sri Lanka I also taught English to disadvantaged children and young adults in temples, children’s homes and a cotton factory. It was this experience that inspired me to become a teacher.
Gemma Browne
Subject Specialty: Health and Social Care
I didn’t do very well in school, but made up for this in College where I resat my English, Maths and Science GCSE’s. I attended Christ Church University College in Canterbury where I completed by BSc Hons Degree in Health Sciences. I have experience teaching at secondary Schools and Further Education Colleges Health and Social Care as well as experience working in the care industry. I have two gorgeous boys who keep me busy when I am not at work, and I also practise martial arts in my spare time with my son.
June Bates
Subject speciality: Art and Design
I was born and grew up in East Kilbride, near Glasgow, in Scotland. I achieved my BA(hons) in Graphic Design and worked as an informational graphic designer; making animations and films to demonstrate how to use specialist medical equipment. I then moved to Kent in 2004 to study for my PGCE in Art and Design. I am passionate about the Arts and helping people to be creative and have enjoyed exhibiting students’ work at the Tate Modern, London. When I am not at work, I am having adventures with my wonderful family.
Ros Krauspe
Subject Speciality: Business and Enterprise
I am originally from South Africa where I attended the University of KwaZulu-Natal, Edgewood Campus and gained a BA Honours degree in Education, majoring in Business Management. I taught both Business and ICT in South Africa for 11 years before immigrating to the UK in January 2007. I was initially employed at Astor as a supply teacher through the International Education agency TimePlan but became a permanent member of staff in April 2007. I have travelled extensively and have a keen interest in globalization and its impact on developing countries.
