Rachel Richardson

Head Of School
I am proud to serve as Head of School at The Fast Forward School, bringing over 20 years of experience across the education sector. My career has progressed from classroom teacher to middle leader, quality specialist, and senior leader, giving me a well-rounded understanding of what it takes to deliver excellence at every level.Read More
I am deeply committed to providing a high-quality, inclusive education for all our learners within a 15–19 SEMH setting, where understanding, consistency, and strong, trusting relationships are fundamental. I believe in a trauma-informed and relational approach, recognising that every young person’s journey is unique and that the right support, at the right time, can be transformational.
At The Fast Forward School, we are dedicated to ensuring every learner is achieving, thriving, and experiencing a true sense of belonging. Through a broad and balanced curriculum, including strong academic and vocational education pathways, we prepare our students not only for qualifications, but for life beyond school by supporting them to take confident and meaningful next steps. Developing independence, resilience, and confidence is central to our work, enabling each young person to progress into appropriate and personalised pathways, whether that be further education, supported provision, employment, or increased independence within their community.
We work closely with families, external agencies, and the wider community to support each learner holistically. It is my privilege to lead a school where we are committed to creating a safe, ambitious, and nurturing environment in which every young person can achieve, thrive, and belong.

Luke Flanagan

Assistant Head of School
I am Assistant Head of School with over 15 years teaching experience at both Mainstream Secondary, Sixth Form and Alternative Provision. Most recently I have been Pastoral and Behaviour Lead at Aspire Academy and Compass Academy before my appointment to Fast Forward.Read More
I gained a BA in American Studies (Literature, History, Film & Politics) through the University of Hull from 2004-2008 and then worked in schools to assist learners getting in to Universities at St. Mary's College.
I qualified as a teacher through the Graduate Teacher Programme based at St. Mary's College back in 2010/11 and went on to teach English, Media and Film Studies for 12 years before moving over to Alternative Provision. Recently I achieved a Level 5 Diploma in Trauma and Mental Health Informed Schools and Communities Award, leading me to have Practitioner Status through TISCUK (Trauma Informed Schools & Communities UK).

Debbie Martinson

SENCO
I’m Debbie Martinson, a qualified SENDCo and teacher with over 25 years’ experience working in special educational needs and disabilities. I specialise in supporting children and young people with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and have a strong background in trauma informed practice.Read More
I’m trained in a wide range of intervention strategies and enjoy tailoring these to suit each individual child or young person. I also use the PACE approach (Playfulness, Acceptance, Curiosity and Empathy), which helps me build warm, trusting relationships and truly understand each pupil’s needs. I’m passionate about inclusive, child centred practice and love supporting young people to feel safe, valued and able to thrive.

Emma Oliveria

Curriculum Lead
As Curriculum Lead, my primary focus is to design an educational framework that is both academically rigorous and deeply inclusive. Having spent over 15 years specialising in SEND and SEMH, I am incredibly passionate about ensuring our curriculum goes beyond the classroom to empower students with the skills and confidence they need to thrive in adult life.Read More
To achieve this, I work closely with our teaching staff, providing the support and guidance they need to deliver high-quality learning for every student.
This passion for nurturing potential carries over into my personal life, specifically enjoying the detail of textiles and floristry. I also find great balance in swimming, travelling, and spending time at my allotment growing my own flowers and vegetables.

Georgia Morfitt

Designated Safeguarding Lead
As the Designated Safeguarding Lead and AP Co-ordinator for Hull Alternative Provision, I am dedicated to ensuring that every child feels safe, valued, and fully supported to engage in their education.Read More
With a background in Children’s Social Care and Education, I am deeply committed to protecting young people and championing their right to a high-quality, inclusive learning experience.
A key part of my role is to ensure that all staff are highly trained in safeguarding, enabling us to create a nurturing, consistent environment where every student can build confidence, develop resilience, and achieve their full potential.

Nicola Ryan

Pastoral Lead & Deputy Safeguarding Lead
I am an experienced education professional with over 20 years of dedicated service, specialising in pastoral care and student wellbeing. I have extensive experience supporting young people with their emotional, social, and health needs, alongside working closely with attendance teams to improve engagement and outcomes.Read More
As a key point of contact for parents and guardians, I have built strong relationships that support student development both in and out of school. I am passionate about helping students grow into well-rounded, resilient individuals and equipping them with the skills and confidence to succeed in their future working lives.