Meet the Managers
Meet the team
Meet the GAPS Centre Managers
Kirsty Negus
Strood GAPS Construction Centre Manager
I have 34 years of experience in Hairdressing but for the past 3 years I have focused on Further Education, I bring a wealth of knowledge with me working in FMCG and B2B for the past 19 years.
My passion is education and giving learners the tools they need to achieve their dreams. At Strood we work with the learner to get them work ready to gain employment. We are a small team who are working towards the same goal. The team help learners to build confidence, resilience, independence and community spirit. This happens through enriched lessons which explore local industries and robust employer partnerships.
We support British Values such as equality and diversity, respect, tolerance and inclusivity. It takes a community to bring up a young person and here at Strood, we believe we support this.
Connect with Kirsty
Caroline Parker-Meadows
Peterborough GAPS Construction Centre Manager
Welcome to GAPS Peterborough Fengate. I have the privilege to work in our construction centre and have been with GAPS since August 2024.
I have worked in the further education sector for 21 years across Lincolnshire and Leicestershire and have supported learners from KS4, 16-18 full time to adult learners and apprenticeships to help them achieve across a diverse range of courses, while meeting and supporting here individual needs.
Our experienced and talented team are here to support young people to gain qualifications ,develop their personal skills and build confidence in preparation for their next steps.
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Stacey Gibbs
Dunstable GAPS Centre Manager
I have had 14 years experience of working in education. I have supported all areas of Special Educational Needs, supporting a range of different abilities throughout this time, and this is my passion.
Being able to give everyone and anyone the education they deserve, in the way they need it, in a way that makes sense to them. This is why I am also the EHCP Coordinator for all our GAPS Centre’s.
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Charmaine Thomas
Ipswich GAPS Centre Manager
Taking on this role is a privilege and I am excited to continue the fantastic work already happening within our centre.
For me, its about celebrating the students every win, big or small. Achieving academic goals is important, but I believe just as strongly in helping our learners develop the life skills, resilience and self-belief they need to thrive in the wider world.
Our team is dedicated to creating a safe, inclusive and encouraging environment where every learner is recognised as an individual. We work hard to build trust, celebrate progress and prepare learners not only for their next steps in education or employment but also for the challenges and opportunities that life will bring.
I am passionate about ensuring that every student who comes through our doors leaves with more than just qualifications. Together with our talented staff, I look forward to supporting each learner on their unique journey and celebrating their successes along the way.
Connect with Charmaine
Sue Reith
Interim Basildon GAPS Centre Manager
Welcome to GAPS Basildon!
Hi, I’m Sue – Interim Centre Manager at Southgate House Basildon GAPS.
I have a wealth of experience in Post 16 Education, and I am passionate about providing a positive and inclusive environment for all.
I thrive to ensure that all learners are safe, seen and scaffolded and are able to reach their potential which leads to positive outcomes for all.
The team at Southgate House is dedicated to providing learning experiences that meet the needs of all – we recognise the individual needs of each learner and work hard together to ensure that they are given the best opportunity to succeed and build the best possible foundation for their future.
Sara Sheriff
Watford GAPS Centre Manager
I have spent my career working as a behaviour specialist in both mainstream and alternative education, leading on culture and behaviour to create spaces where young people feel safe, supported, and able to thrive.
For me, it’s all about creating the right environment – one where every learner is given the chance to grow, develop, and succeed, no matter their background or challenges. With the right support and encouragement, I truly believe every young person has the potential to achieve great things.
Of course, none of this would be possible without our incredible team. Our staff are dedicated, passionate, and go above and beyond to make sure every learner gets the support they need. Together, we’re committed to making Watford GAPS a place where young people can rebuild their confidence, find their strengths, and take positive steps towards their future.
Connect with Sara
Emma Turner
Thurrock GAPS Centre Manager
I’m a creative educator with experience across both Further and Higher Education, and I’m passionate about making learning accessible for everyone. My focus is on creating a safe, supportive environment where learners can be themselves, build confidence, develop new skills, and achieve success – no matter their background or the challenges they face.
We are proud to have a dedicated and supportive team who share this vision. Together, we provide personalised learning experiences that nurture each learner’s potential. We specialise in supporting learners with Special Educational Needs (SEND), ensuring they have the right opportunities, encouragement, and environment to thrive.
Connect with Emma
Sarah Dimond-Checketts
Basildon Construction GAPS Centre Manager
I believe that every learner has the ability to achieve great things when they are given the right support, encouragement, and opportunity. With a background in both teaching and leadership, I have dedicated my career to helping people build confidence, overcome barriers, and discover their potential. My approach is grounded in resilience, determination, and a genuine belief that success is not defined by where someone starts, but by the opportunities they are given and the belief they have in themselves. I am committed to creating meaningful learning experiences that inspire ambition, nurture personal growth, and empower learners to achieve more than they ever thought possible.
As Centre Manager, my focus is on creating a safe, ambitious, and supportive environment where every learner feels valued, challenged, and empowered to succeed. I am passionate about helping individuals develop not only the skills and qualifications they need, but also the confidence to believe in themselves and their future. My goal is for every individual who walks through our doors to leave with greater confidence, stronger skills, and the belief that they can achieve anything they set their mind to.
Meet the team
Meet the Restart Scheme Manager
Barry Grehan
Restart Performance Manager
Employability is a challenging yet rewarding job. Our mission is to support participants on their individual journeys—either to secure sustainable employment or to bridge the gap to the labour market.
The team here at TCHC Restart is dedicated to supporting our customers. Their passion and empathy shine through day in and day out, as they consistently go above and beyond what is required.
It is my responsibility to ensure they have the skill set and tool set necessary to perform at their best.
Connect with Barry