Leading Sheffield training academy The Source has strengthened its senior management team.

Natalie Doherty joins as director of Quality, Curriculum and Innovation.

Natalie, 45, brings over 20 years of education sector management expertise to The Source, a registered charity which has been helping people into work and training since 2003.

She began her career as a dancer and choreographer, headed to university at the age of 20 for teaching qualifications and a career driving high-quality educational provision across numerous sectors ensued.

For two years she was Head of Education at a male prison in the East of England, enabling inmates to study subjects ranging from maths to motor vehicle mechanics and construction skills

She moved into quality control as assistant director of a college in her home city and before moving to The Source was quality manager for Liverpool training provider The Learning Foundry.

Natalie is passionate about giving people second chances in life through education.

“When I walked into The Source I felt like I’d been there forever. Its ethos of helping people to find their forte in life is exactly in line with mine,” she commented.

“I have worked with people from a cross section of society, including prisoners, and firmly believe people can change their direction at any point, given the right help and support.”

Tricia Smith, CEO of The Source, said: “We knew instantly Natalie was the right person to enhance our management team. She is dynamic, driven and compassionate and has inspired young people and adults throughout her life. She brings an outstanding record of success to our organisation.”