Maria has been working in education for 40 years, of which she has been head at Orchard House for 6 years. She holds a BEd degree from Bedford College and a postgraduate certificate in primary education from Manchester Metropolitan University and began her career teaching sport. A highly experienced teacher from the Early Years through to Key Stage 3 (children aged 3 to 13 years old), she was the head for six years of Abbots Bromley Prep School in Staffordshire, and for nine years the headmistress of Shrewsbury High Prep School in Shropshire, before joining Orchard House.
She is married to a retired senior police officer and they have two adult daughters, both of whom were educated at independent schools. Maria is a keen sportswoman who represented North Wales at both tennis and netball and is a passionate follower of the Welsh rugby team! The performing arts are one of her particular interests, and she enjoys sharing her love of music with the children. When she has time she enjoys a game of tennis and taking her dog, Hector, for a walk!