Quo Vadis Trust is delighted to welcome Jessica Penketh to our Board of Trustees. Jessica is a Virtual School Deputy Head with a background in education, safeguarding and inclusion, and brings a career-long commitment to improving outcomes for children and young people who have experienced adversity, including children in care, previously looked-after children and care leavers. We sat down with Jessica to find out more about her background, what drew her to QVT, and what she’s looking forward to as she joins the Board.
Could you tell us a little about yourself and your professional background?
I am a Virtual School Deputy Head with a background in education, safeguarding and inclusion. Throughout my career, I have worked closely with schools, local authorities and partner agencies to improve outcomes for children who have experienced adversity, including children in care, previously looked-after children and care leavers. What continues to motivate me is the connection between education, mental health and the opportunities people have later in life. I believe that positive educational experiences and trusted relationships can shape confidence, wellbeing and future aspirations, and I am passionate about helping children and young people achieve the very best outcomes as they move into adulthood.
What inspired you to become a trustee for QVT?
I wanted to contribute my experience beyond my day-to-day role by supporting an organisation that makes a real difference in the community. Becoming a trustee felt like a natural way to give something back, while using my skills to support an organisation whose values closely reflect my own. I was particularly drawn to QVT’s commitment to helping people build brighter, more independent futures.
What is it about QVT’s work and mission that particularly resonates with you?
What resonates with me most is QVT’s commitment to seeing the whole person. Throughout my career, I have seen how education, emotional wellbeing, stable relationships and community support are all closely linked. Lasting change happens when people feel valued, supported and empowered, and I admire QVT’s commitment to creating those opportunities for individuals and families.
What skills or experience are you hoping to bring to the trustee role?
I hope to bring strategic leadership, safeguarding expertise and extensive experience of partnership working across education, health and social care. My role involves balancing strategic thinking with practical problem-solving, using evidence to inform decisions and maintaining a clear focus on improving outcomes for vulnerable children and young people. I also bring experience of supporting care leavers as they transition into adulthood, recognising how this important stage of life can influence future wellbeing, mental health and life chances.
What are you most looking forward to during your time with QVT?
I’m looking forward to getting to know the organisation, working alongside fellow trustees, staff and volunteers, and learning from the wealth of experience across the charity. I’m excited to play a small part in supporting QVT’s future and helping to strengthen the positive impact it has within the community.
Why do you think charities like QVT are so important within the community?
QVT plays an important role in bringing people together and creating opportunities that have a lasting impact on individuals and the wider community. Its commitment to supporting people through practical help, meaningful activities and strong relationships reflects the belief that everyone should have the opportunity to thrive. I particularly value the way QVT works in partnership with others to build confidence, promote wellbeing and help people develop the skills, resilience and sense of belonging that enable them to move forward positively.
Is there a particular cause, value, or area of QVT’s work that you feel especially passionate about?
I am particularly passionate about creating opportunities that enable people to overcome barriers and thrive. My professional experience has reinforced my belief that education, mental health and future life opportunities are deeply interconnected. I care deeply about supporting children in care, care leavers and other vulnerable people to build confidence, resilience and independence, and I believe everyone deserves the opportunity to fulfil their potential.
Outside of work and trustee life, what do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with family and friends, reading, working out and exploring new places and experiences with my young daughter. I also enjoy continuing my own learning and professional development, particularly around leadership, wellbeing and research into improving outcomes for vulnerable children and young people. I find that keeping curious and making time to recharge helps me bring fresh energy and perspective to both my work and volunteering.
Finally, is there anything else you’d like the QVT community to know about you?
I feel genuinely honoured to be joining QVT as a trustee and look forward to supporting the organisation’s important work. I believe in leading with integrity, kindness and collaboration, and I’m excited to work alongside others who share a commitment to improving lives. I hope to contribute not only my professional experience but also a willingness to listen, learn and help QVT continue making a positive difference in the community.
We’re thrilled to have Jessica on board, and look forward to the insight, energy and expertise she’ll bring to QVT. Please join us in giving Jessica a warm welcome to the QVT family!
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