Shellie Barcroft, Education Advisor to the Board
Friday 22 May 2026
Shellie has been part of Five Rivers since 2014. With more than a decade of service, she has played a pivotal role in the growth and development of our education provision.
Her story reflects not only her own commitment, but the evolution of Five Rivers as a whole.
Tell us about your career path with Five Rivers.
I joined Five Rivers 11 years ago as a part-time Education Consultant, supporting the registration of Fountain House as a new school. At that time, Five Rivers had only two other schools, and within my first month, I was asked to visit them and offer support.
As the education provision grew, so did my role. My days increased, and Five Rivers quickly became my passion and my priority. I gradually reduced my work with other companies, and in 2020, I moved from consultancy into a permanent role.
I’m now the longest-serving member of the education team. I’ve had the privilege of watching our education services grow from two schools to nine, alongside alternative providers and an online school. I’ve been involved in every Ofsted inspection since 2015 and have worked with incredible colleagues from a wide range of professional backgrounds.
What do you enjoy most about working at Five Rivers?
The young people and the colleagues I work alongside are the best part about Five Rivers. Everyone here shares the same purpose: supporting young people and helping them prepare for their next steps in education and life.
I learn from my colleagues every day. Their knowledge, experience, and willingness to share ideas create the best possible environments for our pupils.
Do you have any stand-out moments?
A standout moment was attending a special celebration event in London last year for colleagues who have reached 10 years of service, a lovely recognition of our commitment.
How has your role at Five Rivers helped you develop over time?
Five Rivers has given me the chance to grow alongside the organisation. I’ve been entrusted with greater responsibility, involved in key developments, and encouraged to draw on my experience to shape our education provision.
Working closely with clinicians has broadened my understanding of the therapeutic approaches that support our children. I’ve also been able to attend workshops, training sessions, and national conferences, all of which have strengthened my practice and kept me connected to best‑practice thinking across the sector.
These opportunities, and the belief in my abilities, have made a real difference to my professional development.
What would you say to someone considering joining Five Rivers?
It truly is a special place, and our values and ethos are lived every day, with supporting children at the forefront of everything we do.
The culture is supportive, collaborative, and driven by a shared purpose. You feel part of something meaningful, and you are surrounded by people who genuinely care about the children, the work, and each other.
Interested in working with Five Rivers?
If you want to join our Social Enterprise, take a look at our current vacancies to find a role turning children’s lives around.