Meet the Sixth Form Team
Jackie Walton - Head of 6th Form
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 Head of 6th Form
Subject Specialty: History
I’m a former Astor College pupil who left in 2002. 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.
Kirsty Elliot
Subject Specialty: Photography
I have always been passionate about Art from an early age which led me to study for a BSC in Textile and Interior design. Following my degree, I worked in London as an Interior designer and then moved back to Kent to work for an Interior Design practice.
My love of design and photography led me to working with young adults and to pursue a teaching career.
At Astor I have taught many creative subjects, but my passion is Photography which I also enjoy in my spare time.
When I am not teaching, I love to travel in my campervan with my family.
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.
Helen Fox
Subject Specialty: Science
I have had a passion for science and understanding how things work from a young age, which lead me to peruse my degree in Integrated Science from Canterbury Christ Church University. I Joined the Astor team as a trainee and I am ecstatic to have been the opportunity to stay on, to continue my career. Outside of school, I spend my time with my family, trying as many new things as possible. As I believe that it is important to draw knowledge and wisdom from many different places and people as possible.
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.
