SPOTLIGHT ON…

POLLY SHARPE, DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS AND EA

planning and executing PR, marketing and social media strategies across our schools - for example GCSE results - writing press releases for schools transferring to BET or those opening soon, liaising with media, supporting other schools with best practice, managing reputational crises, conducting website and brand design, creating online content and marketing materials, policy writing, initiating partnerships such as the Bedales collaboration and liaising with BET stakeholders across a variety of platforms. I also organise events and visits to BET schools for prospective schools, preparing materials and presenting to senior leadership. As EA, I run the CEO’s diary, fielding calls and setting and juggling appointments to ensure all commitments are fulfilled – and arrange and set agendas for Heads’ and BET meetings.

I am currently working on the marketing plan for our Free School in Horsham and this newsletter, BETTER TIMES, which I hope will show clearly how the ethos of ‘enjoy respect achieve’ is in full evidence across all our schools.

What gets you out of bed in the morning?

The idea of a run before my husband leaves for work and the children wake up. Sadly, rarely realised.

How would you describe your day job to a child?

“I show and tell people how good BET schools are. I also make sure the person in charge of all our schools is where he needs to be!”

What is your biggest achievement to date, personal or professional?

Ultimately, a combination of the two: it’s a hackneyed phrase but ‘making it work’. My career path has ranged from PR Manager for innocent drinks and Communications Director positions in the healthcare sector to secondary school English teacher – and I became an author whilst on mat. leave.

The opportunity to work in education, writing and engaging with inspirational people, whilst raising young children is tiring but is probably my perfect balance (I’m writing this on a good day, I’ll admit!)

What does a typical day look like to you and what are you currently working on?

My work is an eclectic mix! As Comms Director I can be

What 3 words would you use to describe your role?

Dynamic, integral, fulfilling

What is on your wish list for the next five years at BET?

Seeing sustainable growth and playing a key role in ensuring consistency in communication of our schools’ key messages, successes and reputations. Ultimately, to help BET schools continue to provide educational excellence to students.

What’s your favourite line from a film?

Anyone who has visited my office will see the poster… “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop to look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

What do you like most about your job?

The variety and working in a sector that makes a difference to people’s lives. I feel lucky that I am never bored in my job. I love engaging with people and working in a school – I may work mainly in front of a computer but I remember the buzz of the classroom and there’s nothing like it. Getting the right messages to the right people at the right time is important and I feel privileged to be in the position I am. The holidays are nice, too.