Mrs Nakum joined the Heathlands family in 2023, having previously worked at Braiswick Primary. She has a BA Hons in Textile Design with a specialism in Woven Textiles, from Loughborough University. She also holds a PGCE alongside her QTS from the University of Greenwich.

Mrs Nakum has always loved teaching and finally decided to make the leap after lockdown, during which she home-schooled her daughter and enjoyed every moment of it! Working at Heathlands brings her so much joy and she loves supporting the children to grow in confidence and feel proud of their achievements.

Before coming into teaching, Mrs Nakum has worked as a Cultural Arts Practitioner for over two decades, holding workshops in Indian dance, culture and textiles for educational, public and private organisations. Mrs Nakum teaches weekly Bollywood dance classes in the local community and often performs at events and festivals, either through dance or spoken-word poetry which she loves. She is passionate about building cultural awareness and breaking down stereotypes.

Mrs Nakum’s focus is on increasing accessibility to The Arts by building gateways between local creative organisations and schools. Along with Miss Wiggins, she is working towards achieving the Artsmark for Heathlands, to further expand the wonderful opportunities that the children experience. She is an active board member for Colchester Arts Centre - where she has been involved in setting up the Youth Board to give young people a voice in the Arts offering of the city, and is Chairperson of a small UK charity.

Fun fact: Mrs Nakum has never had a pet or been able to do a handstand! When she is not at school, you are likely to find her relaxing with her children, reading, playing music or cooking (and eating) in her beloved kitchen