Kirsty-Anne Pugh, a qualified Head Teacher worked within industry in Sales & Marketing Management for 14 years before changing direction, re-training and setting up one of the first alternative and independent schools, `The Alternative School` in 2007.
Previous to this, Kirsty-Anne spent 3 years studying a Social Work Degree whilst working full-time supporting `NEET` young people at a variety of colleges, training providers, homeless hostels and teenagers in short stay residential units.
Before deciding to re-train, Kirsty-Anne was the UK & Ireland Sales Manager for Avery Graphics for 5 years and also a Trustee for a local charity for 2 years, Brierfield Action in The Community (BAIC).
Kirsty-Anne is currently The Community Governor for Oswaldtwistle Short Stay School (PRU), a 2014 UnLtd Big Venture Challenge Winner, gaining herself a place out of hundreds of applicants on the presitgious Social Entrepreneur Growth programme and is now developing her own strategy to expand the already proven Alternative School Model across the country.
To date, The Alternative School has supported over 500 pupils gain qualifications, build their confidence with 100% of full-time pupils transitioning into main stream, special education, further education, employment or apprenticeships – potentially saving the public purse an estimated £38 million pounds in direct and indirect costs.