Mary Ungoed-Thomas
Mary has brought her copy-editing skills to the charity and donated much of her time on a voluntary basis. Mary lives in London and has one daughter.
“I am an experienced editor and writer with experience of the charity sector. My jobs have included editing books at Which? (Consumers’ Association), working for Macmillan and working in mental health.
I know how important it is for disadvantaged groups to feel included and express themselves creatively, so I am delighted to be on board with Synergy supporting their mission to get all children and adults active while having fun in the process.
My voluntary work on the Synergy websites has been very enjoyable, and I am glad to have contributed to the company’s online presence. I hope to continue to assist as the organisation goes from strength to strength”.
Rachelle Franklin
Rachelle Franklin is a school teacher in a Surrey school, and has helped us to focus on disadvantaged groups and strategic planning.
“I am Rachelle, I became a Trustee at Synergy Outreach in 2018 because I wanted to support an organisation that provides opportunities for all to be involved in dance, regardless of previous experience or fitness and has inclusion at the heart of what they do.
I am a qualified primary school teacher and mother of 3 children. I love teaching and guiding young people in their lives and helping them to develop their own skills and interests. I enjoy many styles of dance, having danced as a hobby as a child as well as watching and being part of dance performances.
I’m passionate about opportunities that allow children to develop their creativity, promote wellness and healthy choices so look forward to supporting and attending Synergy Outreach classes and events”.
Nicola Whittaker
Nicola is a Head Teacher in a school in East Sussex and has also worked for many years as a primary school teacher.
“I am really proud to add my support to Synergy Dance Outreach. I have over 20 years primary teaching experience and graduated from Cambridge University in 1993. I currently lead the Early Years Foundation Stage in my school and have a huge passion in the importance of settling our youngest children and providing each and every one of them with a positive experience of school.
I also have a keen interest in the mental health and well- being of our children, and I run nurture groups throughout the school, which provide support and space through therapeutic art activities for those children experiencing a tough time. I am a Thrive practitioner and oversee the running of this for individual children needing extra emotional support.
I love the fact that Rachael has reached out and provided inclusive facilities for every child to partake in Synergy dance sessions. Synergy provides a unique opportunity for every child to gain confidence, express themselves in a fun and secure environment, and to partake in the vital physical exercise which research has shown helps children reach and maintain balanced mental health.
In my spare time I love to walk in the beautiful Sussex countryside with my mini dachshund, who is definitely good for my mental health!”
