At Sandfield Close, our staff are the heart of the school. Many of our team have long-standing connections with the school and the wider community, bringing not only experience and expertise but also a deep understanding of what makes Sandfield Close such a special place to work and learn.
We are a mixed-gender local authority primary school, catering for children aged 4–11 in the vibrant and diverse city of Leicester. Our school community reflects a wide range of cultural, religious and linguistic backgrounds, and this diversity is something we cherish and celebrate throughout the year and across our curriculum.
We are proud of the high standards we set and the inclusive, supportive culture we’ve built together. Our staff work collaboratively and with great care to ensure all children feel safe, valued, and inspired to reach their potential.
At Sandfield Close, every member of staff—whether in the classroom, the office, the kitchen or the playground—plays a vital role in shaping the lives of our pupils and creating a positive, enriching school experience.
Please meet the wonderful team who help make Sandfield Close such a welcoming and successful place for every child.
Mr Paresh Ruparel Chair of Governors (Parent Governor)
Mr Stephen Thompson Vice Chair of Governors (Local Authority)
Mr Gus Jakhu Co – opted Governor
Mr Paresh Ruparel Parent Governor
Mrs Roopa Rahman Parent Governor
Mrs Daksha Daudia Community Governor
Mrs Preena Tailor Parent Governor
Mrs Lilian Reading Co - opted Governor
Mrs Smita Lad Headteacher
Miss Sarah Vernon Staff Governor
Mrs S Lad Headteacher and Designated Safeguarding Lead
Mrs S Odedra Deputy Headteacher and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
Mrs H Khalifa Business Manager and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
Miss S Vernon Key Stage 1 Leader
Mrs J Lalloo Key Stage 2 Leader and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
Mrs Z Master SENDCO and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
Mrs J Chomber Reception Teacher
Mrs R Thorpe Year 1 Teacher (Mon - Tues)
Mrs P Ahir Year 1 Teacher (Wed - Fri)
Miss S Vernon Year 2 Teacher
Miss N Khan Year 3 Teacher
Mrs J Lalloo Year 4 Teacher (Mon- Wed)
Mrs R Sandland Year 4 Teacher (Thurs - Fri)
Mrs S Lakha Year 4 Teacher
Mrs A Brown Year 5 Teacher
Mrs S Odedra Year 6 Teacher (Mon - Wed)
Mrs B Pancholi Year 6 Teacher (Thurs - Fri)
Miss S Eames - PPA Teacher
Mrs K Kaur (Maternity Leave)
Miss K Henshaw - Phonics Teacher
Higher Level Teaching Assistants
Miss R Leonard HLTA
Mrs K Palak HLTA
Office Staff
Mrs P Tailor Administration Officer
Premises Staff
Mrs E Thompson Site Manager
Cleaners
Mrs N Pankhania Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead
Mrs K Palak
Mrs M Daudbhai
Teaching Assistants
Mrs M Daudbhai
Mrs K Patel
Mrs N Ravalia
Miss N Pankhania
Mrs V Teli
Miss M Bosmanova
Mrs S Kukadia
Mrs B Thakrar
Miss L Rushton
Mrs P Makwana
Mrs M Keshwara
Ms R Patel
School Kitchen Staff
Ms A Young Cook - Supervisor
Mrs M Thakore
Mrs R Jayawardena
Lunchtime Assistants
Miss N Pankhania - Lunchtime Manager
Mrs N Ravalia
Mrs M Daudbhai
Mrs B Thakrar
Mrs P Makwana
Miss M Bosmanova
Mrs S Kukadia
Mr T Singh
Mrs V Teli
Mrs R Patel
Mrs K Patel
Mrs A Dudhaiya