Johanna McManus

Currently, as Head of Alternative Provision at Navigators, Manchester, Johanna ensures that the needs of all students are met effectively. Johanna regularly reviews provision against set targets, challenge assumptions and gathers feedback, and report findings to key stakeholders, ensuring that any areas for improvement are identified and addressed. This structured approach allows leaders to lead with clarity, and requires a strategic approach from Johanna. She fosters a culture of reflective practice and continuous improvement.

Johanna has had the privilege of working in schools that have successfully improved, including those that have been placed in an Ofsted or local authority category of concern. She has been part of the leadership teams in schools that have progressed from Special Measures to achieving Good or Outstanding (eg St Damian’s RC High School, Tameside, St Monica’s, Bury)

Johanna has led the development of Special Educational Needs (SEND) provision, driving significant improvements to ensure that students with additional needs received a high-quality education. Through strategic planning, targeted interventions, and close monitoring, she is able to elevate the SEND provision to at least a good standard, ensuring that outcomes for students are consistently at least Good.