Michelle Stokes

Bursar

Qualified accountant with 2 children with a passion to make schools inspiring places that children want to come to learn and reach their potential

What work experiences led you to the role you are in today?

I qualified as an engineer during the 1990s recession and ended up working in an accountancy practice. Having qualified as an accountant I then moved into industry and ended up in Hong Kong for 8 years. My last position in Hong Kong was working as a business manager for one of the secondary schools that make up ESF. This was by far the most rewarding roles of my career and one that made me decide my future was in education.

What’s the most exciting project you’re working on right now? What makes it so interesting?

Move the Prep School up to Stoatley – I have never been involved in such a huge project as this and managing so many opinions. 

What do you love most about your job and why?

The unpredictability of what will happen on a day-to-day basis – never a dull moment!

Who inspires you?

Marie Curie and anyone who achieves their goals no matter what adversity they face on the way.

What is a fun fact no one knows about you?

Have been on the back of a motorbike with David Jason.

What single item would you take on a deserted island?

Magician’s hat – you can pull anything out of magician’s hat!

Do you have any hidden talents or hobbies?

Playing golf badly!

What’s your idea of a perfect day?

A day where my emails are not constantly pinging.