Jo Ball
Jo Ball, Head Teacher, Laurance Haines School
With 23 years of experience in education, Jo brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to her role as Headteacher of Laurance Haines School. Holding a BA Hons combined degree in Art History and Fine Art, a PGCE and the NPQH, her career has been defined by a deep commitment to curriculum excellence, inclusive practice and the belief that every child, regardless of background, can achieve and succeed.
Beginning her teaching career in Manchester, Jo worked at two schools before relocating to Barnet, London. Within just three years of teaching, she had qualified as an Advanced Skills Teacher and was appointed as a Consultant Leading Teacher for Enfield, where she focused on improving writing outcomes across primary schools in the local authority. Whilst working at two schools in the borough of Enfield, she was quickly appointed as KS2 Leader and then Assistant Headteacher for Curriculum, Teaching and Learning from 2010. Jo has always worked in schools that support disadvantaged communities and is passionate about improving outcomes for all.
A short leadership career break following the birth of her third child brought Jo to Laurance Haines School, Watford as a Year 6 teacher. She quickly took on the role of Upper Key Stage 2 Phase Leader before returning to the Assistant Headteacher role. In 2023, she was appointed Headteacher, a position she continues to hold with pride.
Passionate about school culture, curriculum design and quality first teaching, Jo has led a significant and research-informed transformation of the curriculum at Laurance Haines since her appointment. Collaboration, agency and opportunity sit at the heart of her leadership philosophy, and this influence is visible at every level of the school.
Outside being a school leader, Jo enjoys painting, being active and spending time with her three children.