Michelle Ravey has been part of the archdiocese for three years as a Diocesan Schools Officer, supporting schools across Knowsley and Wigan. Her work focuses on pastoral care for headteachers and school communities, ensuring they receive the guidance and encouragement they need to thrive.

“There’s no such thing as a typical day!” Michelle says. “Every day is very different. Part of our role is to visit headteachers at least once a term, just to see how things are going and to offer pastoral support. But other times, you might go in more – for instance, if there’s an Ofsted inspection, you’ll speak to the inspector, or if there’s a complaint or a bereavement, you may visit to support them.”

Michelle oversees 40 schools – all of Knowsley and half of the Wigan schools – making her role a busy and varied one. “You’re on the road a lot, but it’s brilliant,” she explains. “For example, yesterday I was at All Saints in Golborne, where the Secretary of State, Bridget Phillipson, made a last-minute visit. That school had just maintained its Outstanding Ofsted rating, and it was a real honour to share that moment with the headteacher and staff.”

With over 35 years in education – including eight as a headteacher – Michelle brings a wealth of experience to the role. “You don’t realise how much experience you build up over the years. When you’ve got a young headteacher sitting there, really upset about something, you can be a real support to them, and that’s a privilege. Meeting the children is always a joy too!”

For Michelle, a passion for education is at the heart of everything she does. “I’ve always loved it – there was never a day I didn’t want to go into school. To do this job well, you need to absolutely love education and to be open and supportive with people.”

Alongside her role, Michelle serves as a governor at twos chools and volunteers with CAFOD, leading assemblies and Jubilee workshops. “It’s all part of being there for the school communities,” she says. “It’s a real joy to play a part in their journey.”

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