Meet the Kent Test team

Helen Coombs

Headteacher, Kent Test expert

Leading our team is Helen Coombs, Head of St Faith’s Prep and resident 11+ expert. With over 30 years at the heart of the school, Mrs Coombs brings a depth of experience and insight that underpins our consistent success. She works closely with pupils, staff and families to guide them through the admissions process including appeals and school selection. 

David Mackenzie 

Deputy Head Academic 

David’s wealth of experience teaching pupils across Key Stage two with a particular focus on Maths, reasoning and data analysis means he is an expert in advising parents regarding their suitability different secondary schools. David organises our annual PESE meeting inviting secondary schools to meet with Yr 4 and Yr 5 parents and introduce them to the secondary application process including the Kent Test. 

Jo Woodhead 

Deputy Head Pastoral 

Teaching pupils across the school, Jo is aware of the emotional well-being of every child, building positive relationships and watching pupils transition between year groups. She works closely with class teachers, support staff and parents to ensure that pupils’ mental health and well-being is supported. Jo has an open-door policy and is accessible to meet with both pupils and parents. Jo reminds parents of the need to remain calm balanced during any assessment process in the best interests of pupils, supporting their ability to fully achieve their potential. 

Yvette Allen 

Learning Enhancement Co-ordinator 

With many years of KS2 class teaching experience and as our qualified Special Needs Co-ordinator Yvette has oversight of pupils additional needs, developing targeted plans for those requiring support in learning and assessment. Her knowledge of special considerations that can support the assessment process ensures that all pupils access arrangements that fully support transition to secondary school whether through assessment or communication with secondary colleagues.