Job title: Director

When did you join QTR? In 2000 as an Office Assistant helping my father, I became a Partner in September 2010 and then Director in August 2016.

What did you do before? Originally, I trained in Psychology working in both Holloway Prison as a Psychology Assistant and at a Child psychiatric in-patient unit in London. I moved onto Behaviour Management within mainstream schools before training to be a Primary school teacher. I taught for 6 years taking on the roles of LAC designated teacher and SENCo, during this time I gained my SENCo qualification, as well as having other subject leadership responsibilities. I then left to have my first child and take over QTR.  

Favourite place you've travelled to: I have been very lucky to have travelled to some amazing places. My honeymoon driving around California meant I saw some extraordinary sights. I visited Dubrovnik in Croatia which was perfect for food, wine and relaxation but my most exceptional travel experience by far was the year I spent working in Sri Lanka, I love that country! The sights and people are like nothing I’d ever experienced before. If you ever have a chance go and if you are able, climb Adam’s Peak to see the sunrise – breathtaking!

Favourite children's book: Each Peach Pear Plum by Janet and Allan Ahlberg. I have been able to recite it since I can remember and now spend a lot of time looking at the illustrations finding all the little details with my son.

Name: Carey Tompsett

Job Title: Operations and Marketing Manager

When did you join QTR? September 2019

What did you do before? I worked in the media for over 12 years as a picture editor before my wife and I moved from the South East to East Anglia in early 2018 (the same weekend as the Beast from the East hit the region!) Before starting at QTR I volunteered at a local charity which helps disadvantaged children and youths through sport and activity, mostly doing their digital marketing and social media content but also getting involved in most other aspects of the business.

Favourite place you’ve travelled to: Now this is a tough one! I am lucky to have travelled to some pretty special places so I think I may have to give my top 5. So, in no particular order we have: Nashville (a must for anyone who loves music), Iceland (the beauty of that country is unlike anything I have ever seen before and the Northern Lights took my breath away), Mauritius (an almost prefect island with the friendliest people), New York (just a wonderful city plus I got engaged there!) and Rome (if you love history, architecture and ice cream this is the place for you!).

Favourite children’s book: I think this has to be The Wonky Donkey by Craig Smith. There is a song which accompanies the book and it is hilarious!

Name: Velda Rickman

Job Title: Administrative Assistant

When did you join QTR? January 2025

What did you do before? I worked as a Learning Support Manager & Safeguarding Lead in an Independent School for 13 years. Before that I worked for a Corporate Training Company under the umbrella of Norfolk County Council where I organised and facilitated training for non teaching staff in schools across Norfolk.

Favourite place you’ve travelled to: This is a difficult one as I love the sun, so Greece, Spain and Portugal are all on the list, however, Italy is my favourite especially the Amalfi Coast with its beautiful views and winding cliff roads. My husband and I also love the history of the country too especially as his grandmother was Italian! We have explored Rome, Pisa, Pompeii & Florence and can’t wait to visit Italy again.

Favourite children’s book: Any book by Julia Donaldson. I love how she tells her stories in rhyme and the fact they always have an underlying message whether that’s to be kind or that not everyone is the same. I always enjoy watching the books when they are televised on the tv with the grandchildren.