Teacher Reference Group
The Teacher Reference Group advises on the potential impact of policies on primary and secondary education, including any barriers to implementation.
We are currently looking for committed primary and secondary school teachers who would like to join the next cohort of our Teacher Reference Group. Membership terms for successful candidates will begin in Spring 2026. Applications are open until 23:59 on Monday 8 December.
Read about the role in the .
To apply, complete the Teacher Reference Group Application Form: 2025.
Please note, you must complete your application form in one sitting. Your details will not be saved if your session times out, or you close the window before your form is submitted.
As part of your application form, you will be asked to provide responses to 3 questions. These questions can also be found in our information pack for applicants. You may wish to draft your answers in a separate document first.
If you have any questions, please contact referencegroup.recruitment@education.gov.uk.
Terms of reference
The Teacher Reference Group supports policy development and implementation across the Department for Education (DfE) by contributing views and providing feedback to ministers and officials. The group is not representative and has no power of veto over policy decisions.
Meeting dates
The group meets 4 times per year, during term time.
Membership
Members of the Teacher Reference Group are classroom practitioners covering various regions of the country and types of school.
Current members of the Teacher Reference Group:
- Jessica Churchward, Parbold Douglas CofE Academy, North West
- Georgia Clark, Didsbury High School, North West
- Ellissa Drinkhill, St Catherine’s Catholic Primary School, Yorkshire and the Humber
- Sophie Holmes, Chestnut Grove Academy, London
- Sarah Jeffreys, Aylesbury High School, South East
- Helen Lavery, Wensley Fold CofE Primary Academy, North West
- Jenny Lewis, Normanton All Saints CE (aided) Infant School, Yorkshire and the Humber
- Kieran McKevitt, Twyford CofE High School, London
- Aaron Millward, Outwood Primary School, North West
- Rahila Naguthney, Queen Mary’s Grammar School, West Midlands
- Maud Sampson, Central Foundation Girls’ School, London
- Claire Slade-Carter, Cowes Enterprise College, South East
- Neil Starr, Granton Primary School, London
- Ella Sutcliffe, Croftway Academy, North East
- Jonathan Weir, Ellesmere Park High School, North West
- Joseph Williams, St Martin’s Academy, North West