Meet the Wise Words training team

All Wise Words trainers are experts in primary literacy and involved in the development and delivery of our training courses.



Kate Cain - Wise Words Consultant

Kate Cain Wise Words Consultant

Kate Cain is a professor of psychology and Head of Department at Lancaster University. Her research concerns the different cognitive and language-related skills that underpin the development of reading and listening comprehension. Kate was consulted by the government regarding the comprehension-related content of the National Curriculum 2014.


Jonny Walker - Wise Words Trainer

Jonny Walker Wise Words Trainer

Jonny has been a teacher and Assistant Headteacher for many years in Newham. He has coached teachers as a Specialist Leader in Education and currently works as English Lecturer with Essex and Thames SCITT. Jonny believes that the use of creative arts, drama and poetry can support deep learning across the primary curriculum. As founder of Otherwise Education,  he runs poetry retreats and creative writing networks with primary schools. His knowledge and passion for children’s books has led to many wonderful opportunities to promote children’s reading for pleasure – even as a judge in the Lollies Book Awards 2018.


Carey Foster - Wise Words Trainer

Carey Foster Wise Words Trainer

Carey has worked in primary education for over 25 years. As a class teacher and senior leader in schools in London, East Sussex and West Sussex, she has taught across the primary age range from reception to year 6. As a tutor and PGCE school-based Training Lead with the University of Brighton School of Education, she provides initial teacher training and visits schools to support students as they begin their teaching careers. She is committed to excellence in literacy teaching.


Shapla Hodges - Wise Words Training Manager

Shapla Hodges Wise Words Training Manager

Shapla supports the Wise Words team to develop and implement excellent in-school training. Following her years of experience in educational training across a range of settings in the UK and internationally, Shapla is always on hand to answer queries and ensure every event is impactful and meets high expectations of all staff.


Justyna Jameson - Wise Words Events Manager

Justyna Jameson Wise Words Events Manager

Justyna works with the Wise Words team to help create and deliver impactful and inspirational literacy conferences and events. She has already helped us collaborate with primary English hubs to create events.