Alex Ward, Head of Finance

As Head of Finance, I am responsible for financial management, reporting and budgeting. Before joining OHS in October 2024, I worked at one of the world’s largest accountancy firms, where my most recent role provided accounting advice to Private Equity backed businesses and support to CFOs. I am a qualified Chartered Accountant. 

Emily Rattenbury-Barlow, Head of Therapy

As Head of Therapy, I lead the strategic development of our relationships-first approach across all schools, ensuring our practice reflects the latest research. I oversee all therapeutic provision, support the development of our colleagues through targeted training, to consistently create a safe, nurturing environment where pupils with SEMH needs can thrive. I've been part of the OHS team for 12 years and feel privileged to work with such incredible pupils and a dedicated team committed to building playful, relational, and academically engaging school experiences.

Joanne Evans - Head of Safeguarding 

As Head of Safeguarding across Octavia House Schools, I am committed to creating safe, nurturing environments where every pupil feels seen, heard, and valued. Our pupils come to us with a wide range of social, emotional and mental health needs, and safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do — not just a policy, but a culture.

With a deep understanding of trauma-informed practice and child-centred care, I work closely with colleagues, families, and external agencies to ensure that the wellbeing of each pupil is protected and promoted. My role is to champion best practice, build strong safeguarding systems, and ensure our pupils are supported not only to feel safe, but to thrive.

Juliet Harris, Head of People 

I joined OHS in January 2025 and am responsible for creating and delivering our people strategy. Prior to working here, I was Group Chief Talent Officer at Publicis Health and led the people team of a group of companies within the healthcare communications network, having joined the company as an HR Manager in 2009. Before that, I worked at RBS (now Natwest) for over 10 years in a variety of talent roles. I am a commercially minded leader with a passion for creating healthy and inclusive work environments in which people can be themselves and thrive. I partner with business leaders to define and deliver transformation and growth strategies, creating positive colleague experiences and enhancing individual, team and business performance. I have a BA (Hons) in Business Studies, a post-graduate CIPD diploma in HR management and I’m a qualified coach. 

Dr. Kief Ho, Interim Head of Operations & Executive Head, London Schools

As Interim Head of Operations and Executive Head, I lead on the operational and strategic direction of Octavia House Schools and oversee our London cluster to ensure we continue to meet the diverse and complex needs of our pupils. I hold National Professional Qualifications in Senior Leadership, Headship, and Executive Leadership, and am deeply committed to shaping a culture rooted in evidence, compassion, and high expectations.

Before joining OHS, I held a range of senior leadership roles across both primary and secondary settings, including Head of Music, Head of Key Stage, Assistant Headteacher for Pastoral Care, Assistant Head for Key Stage 3, Head of School, and Executive Headteacher. These experiences have given me a broad perspective on holistic education and strengthened my belief in the power of values-led leadership to drive meaningful change.

Patrik Foster, Executive Head, Essex & Kent Schools

I have overall responsibility for our Essex and Kent Schools. I originally joined OHS in February 2018 and led both our London and Essex schools through our most recent Ofsted inspections. In 2023, I took some time travelling and also worked as a leadership consultant in an academy trust. I rejoined OHS in October 2024 as Executive Head for Essex, and have recently led the ISI material change inspection for our growing schools. I will also be leading our Kent schools which are due to open in 2026. Before joining OHS, I was a Deputy Headteacher in a preparatory school in Derbyshire for two years and a former Assistant Headteacher in mainstream, inner-city schools. I hold a Bachelor of Arts degree, have qualified Teacher Status and the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH).  

Rui Loureiro, Head of Referrals

As Head of Referrals, I liaise with Local Authorities and families of potential pupils. The primary objective is to enhance admission processes and foster positive relationships with our authorities and partners. The most gratifying aspect of this role is the knowledge that you are assisting a young person in securing a placement at an outstanding setting, which is crucial for their future development.