Irene is Head of Community and Networks at The Difference. With over 20 years of experience as a teacher and school leader, she holds a Master’s in Education and Policy and specialises in inclusion and behaviour. As part of The Difference’s pioneer cohort of Difference Leaders, Irene worked to transform outcomes for vulnerable students. She has experience across mainstream and alternative provision settings and serves as a trustee for a multi-academy trust in Lancashire and was previously the safeguarding trustee for a music charity based in South London supporting young refugees, asylum seekers, and migrant children. A passionate advocate for immigrant and working-class communities, Irene is dedicated to helping young people overcome barriers to learning and thrive in education.