About Us

Andy Leach

Currently an Assistant Lead Examiner for A level Sociology with extensive first-hand knowledge of the subject area as an ex-Principal Moderator and 39 years teaching and examining experience of GCSE, AS and A level. He has a B.Ed Hons. Degree in Sociology and P.E from Liverpool University and an MA in Education. Andy is the co-author of an earlier Sociology A level textbook called "Think Sociology" and is involved today delivering both teacher CPD and student sociology skills sessions and writing assessment packages for schools and colleges.

Andy is very personable, adaptable and motivator of staff and students, whatever their academic  background or knowledge of the subject. He is always positive and wants the very best for every student and teacher he works with. Recent experience as a Headteacher, Deputy Headteacher of Curriculum, Director of Sixth Form and Head of Department in 11-18 schools in Leeds, Huddersfield, Pickering and most recently as Head of Studies in an outstanding F.E college in York, is testimony to this.

Liz Beaven

After 15 years at the chalk face as a Head of Faculty (Sociology GCSE & A Level as well as Religious Studies, PSHE, Psychology, Philosophy, and General Studies), Head of Careers and Assistant Head Teacher (Teaching & Learning/CPD), Liz has spent the last few years working within Higher Education to support widening participation in social sciences, alongside dedicating her time and passion to Sociology Support!

Rated as "outstanding" in all Ofsted and internal performance measures, Liz is considered an excellent practitioner. She ran a successful faculty for 12 years and mentored colleagues at all stages of their teaching career.

Liz is a former Lead Examiner and has been in senior teams for many years, having started as an associate examiner in 2005. Liz trains and monitors her senior and associate examiners in every exam season and has considerable experience in communicating essential skills and knowledge underpinning sociological assessment. Liz graduated with a BSc degree in Sociology from University of Bath and a PGCE in Secondary Religious Studies from Bath Spa University.

Jess Marston

Jess is currently an Assistant Lead Examiner for A Level Sociology. She has over 14 years current teaching and examining experience of GCSE, AS and A Level. Her teaching career has taken her to Stoke on Trent, Cannock, Thornbury and Cheltenham. Jess has a First-Class Honours Degree in Drama and Sociology from the University of Wolverhampton and a PGCE in Sociology from Keele University.

Jess is currently teaching in an 11-18 school and teaches GCSE, A Level Sociology and Health and Social Care. She is also involved in mentoring ECT teachers and providing leadership and support with marking and course delivery. She is also involved in creating a Social Sciences network in her local area to enhance best practice.

Craig Stimson

As a Sociology graduate of Liverpool University, Craig undertook a PGCE in Social Science at Manchester Metropolitan University allowing him to fulfil his long held ambition to teach. Within a few years of commencing his teaching career he began work as an examiner valuing greatly the insight it afforded to his own practice. Having worked on numerous examination papers throughout the last 28 years he has developed an in-depth knowledge and breadth of skills; most recently as an Assistant Lead Examiner for the leading awarding body where he has enjoyed supporting both experienced and new examiners alike. 

Craig’s teaching career has included leading a Social Science Faculty in Ossett to an ‘outstanding’ grade from OFSTED, to facilitating some of the best A level Sociology results nationally as Head of Faculty at a centre in Harrogate. As Assistant Principal in a college in Pontefract he led on Student Well-Being and Achievement working with dedication to remove barriers to learning for all students. His passion for Sociology and his ability to motivate is evident, not only in his results, but also in his approach to teaching.