Meet the Team

Meet Pete Tiltman, our Head of School. Pete’s love of maths started at an early age, and he studied three separate maths A-Levels when he left High School. After College he went on to Cambridge University where he achieved his degree in Mathematics at Christ’s College.

After University Pete decided to do Voluntary Services overseas where he travelled to a small village called Himbirti in Eritrea in Africa where he taught English and Maths to pupils from 12 to 22 years of age!

Upon returning to the UK Pete qualified as a teacher and began his teaching career in the UK. He was Head of Maths at a Blackpool High school for several years before becoming Head of Sixth Form and then Assistant Head Teacher at Turton School in Bolton before he joined LUSoM.

Outside of LUSoM, Pete teaches a ‘Maths in Education’ module at Lancaster University, he is a member of Abacus NW Maths Hub board and is also a governor for Aston Maths School.

Pete was presented with an award for ‘Special Recognition for services to education and voluntary contribution’ at the British Education Awards 2024.

“Being the head of LUSoM is the dream job for me: leading a community of students with a passion for maths and science; giving them an opportunity to go above and beyond the curriculum; preparing them to study at the top universities in the country; going on to prestigious careers in STEM. In our state-of-the-art facilities, we can help inspire the next generation of mathematicians and scientists across Lancashire.”

Rachel Rowbottom is our Head of Chemistry, Lead Teacher for Personal Development and Designated Safeguarding Lead.

Rachel was always destined to pursue a future in science, her inquisitive mind leading her to constantly seek the answers to why things happen.

After obtaining A-levels in Chemistry, Maths and Biology, she went on to achieve a first-class degree in BSc Chemistry at the University of Liverpool. She always knew she wanted to teach and inspire others to pursue a future in such a fascinating field, so her next step was to complete a Post-Graduate Diploma of Education in teaching secondary Chemistry at Edge Hill University.

For 7 years she was Course Leader of Chemistry in a college in Southport, before she joined the team here at LUSoM.

“I’m incredibly passionate about chemistry and truly feel lucky to have the opportunity to share that passion with my students. I’m grateful to be able to inspire the next generation of scientists and mathematicians and that I can play a role in helping them achieve their dreams.”

“As DSL, I am happy to speak to any member of our amazing community about any worry or concern that they might have – please just get in touch!“

Lauren is one of our physics teachers and brings over 11 years of experience in science education. She is passionate about physics, teaching and learning, and particularly enjoys helping students develop the confidence and curiosity to tackle challenging problems and understand the world around them.

Lauren studied for a BSc (Hons) in Physics at the University of Central Lancashire before completing her PGCE in Secondary Science: Physics at Edge Hill University. Since qualifying, she has taught Science across Key Stages 3 and 4, alongside Physics, Applied Science and Environmental Science at Key Stage 5.

Throughout her career, Lauren has taken on a range of leadership and wider educational roles. She has previously been a Head of Science and Assistant Director of Blackpool Research School, as well as working as a Programme Lead for the Education Endowment Foundation. She has extensive experience in designing and delivering professional development for teachers and has also authored educational resources for Oxford University Press and BBC Bitesize.

Lauren has a particular interest in metacognition and how students can become more independent and effective learners. She loves sharing her enthusiasm for physics but is equally passionate about learning more broadly and encouraging students to be curious, reflective and willing to challenge themselves.

Suzanne Botley studied Mathematics and Management at the University of Liverpool and has enjoyed a varied teaching career in both the UK and overseas. Having always loved mathematics because of its logic and clarity, she was drawn to teaching the subject and helping students develop confidence in their mathematical thinking.

Suzanne spent several years teaching in Germany and the United States before returning to the UK, where she worked in schools across Norfolk and Suffolk. During this time, she held a range of teaching and leadership positions, most recently serving as Head of Mathematics at a school in Suffolk.

Much of Suzanne’s career has focused on A Level and International Baccalaureate Mathematics. Returning to the North West and joining LUSoM feels like coming home, and she is delighted to have the opportunity to work with such talented young mathematicians, supporting both their academic development and their future aspirations.

“I am delighted to be joining the LUSoM team.  I look forward to supporting our students not only in their mathematical education but also as they make important decisions about their future studies and careers. It is a privilege to work with such talented young people and help them realise their potential.”

George Lythgoe is one of our teachers of maths.  He studied Mathematics at the University of Manchester, graduating with BSc.(Hons).  He later qualified as a teacher and has now been teaching A level Maths and Further Maths for twenty years, passing on his love of maths to many hundreds of students and supporting them to progress onto their chosen university destinations and careers.  He also works as a senior examiner.

“I am delighted to be part of the team and to be working with such bright and keen mathematicians.  LUSoM is a great community; I’ve really enjoyed being part of the growth and success of the school during its first few years and I am excited about continuing to play a key role in the development of Lancashire’s next generation of STEM specialists.”

Juan Pedro Bercial Vélez has been teaching Maths to groups of students since the tender age of 19 in a variety of levels, institutions and even continents. A key moment in his life is when in 1994 he decided to take an Erasmus grant to finish his Degree at the University of Liverpool.

He stayed in Liverpool to fully qualify as a teacher, although he had to first complete his Spanish National Service by working at the UES (University of El Salvador) helping in a Maths Education program.

After teaching KS4 and KS5 at Bellerive FCJ in Toxteth, Liverpool, he was invited to do an M.Sc at the University of Liverpool in 2000. During that time he worked alongside Prof. Ian Porteous and Prof. Peter Giblin (his Masters’ director) helping to develop the Fun Maths Roadshow, taking it to many schools throughout Merseyside. He then did a PhD in Fracture Mechanics with Prof. A.B. Movchan, lectured Engineers and Mathematicians at Liverpool University.

In 2007  he returned to Key Stage 5 and taught in Outstanding institutions such as King George V, Winstanley College and most recently, at the School of Medicine at West Lancashire College. “I feel that I am at the perfect place to prepare and enthuse future mathematicians in a dedicated environment; there is nothing more satisfying that seeing young minds developing and understanding deeper concepts.

Aindriú is one of our teacher of maths. He studied Mathematics with Philosophy at University College Dublin (B.A. Hon.) before moving on to study Theoretical Physics at King’s College London (M.Sc.) and Lancaster University (Ph.D.), specialising in Modified Gravity or extensions to Einstein’s Relativity. Then followed a postdoctoral research career at Lancaster University, Dublin City University, and Charles University, Prague.

As a researcher, Aindriú was fascinated by the early universe and used the mathematical frameworks of Quantum Field Theory on Curved Spacetime and General Relativity to help shed light on the question of whether our universe had a beginning or not.

Before starting at LUSoM, I taught A-level maths at Cardinal Newman College and Calculus to undergraduates at Dublin City University.

“I’m delighted to be working with the next generation of budding mathematicians as they take their first steps towards mathematical discovery.”

Wing Liu joined LUSoM as Outreach Director in 2024, bringing a wealth of experience in education. A first-class mathematics graduate from the University of Manchester, Wing qualified as a teacher soon after and developed a reputation for outstanding teaching while working in a secondary school in Oldham. Alongside teaching, he achieved his UEFA C Licence in football coaching and went on to coach at an academy in the United States.

On returning to the UK, Wing held a range of leadership roles in secondary schools, including Key Stage Coordinator, Lead Practitioner of Mathematics, ECT coach, and Associate Lecturer with Liverpool John Moores University. He now teaches mathematics at LUSoM and leads outreach across Lancashire, delivering school talks, “Inspire” and taster lessons, organising team competitions and STEM discovery days, and overseeing initiatives such as online tutoring and the Axiom circles.

comprehensive school, where she studied A-levels before going on to complete a BSc (Hons) in Physics with Computational Physics at Lancaster University. She graduated with a first-class degree and was awarded the Bowland College Prize. Zoe then pursued a PhD in Astrophysics.

Before entering teaching, Zoe worked in research and development in the aerospace and defence industry, where she won an innovation award. Her first teaching role was at UCLAN, where she taught on a range of courses including employability skills. She then spent 13 years at Runshaw College, where she became a course leader and managed the A-level physics programme for eight years.

Outside of work, Zoe enjoys spending time with her family, exploring the countryside with their dog, and renovating a property in Liverpool with her husband. She also enjoys pottering in the garden and taking regular caravan trips around the UK with her family.

Ryan Parkin is our Head of Computer Science. With a lifelong passion for technology and education, Ryan has built a diverse career that blends computing expertise with a commitment to helping young people reach their potential. After graduating with a BSc (Hons) in Web Design and Multimedia from the University of Central Lancashire, he gained experience in IT support before moving into teaching and pastoral roles. His career has spanned both education and community work, including time spent teaching at college level and working in social and community development for The Salvation Army in the UK and Canada. Along the way, he achieved a further Diploma and Postgraduate Certificate in community and social work.

Ryan returned to full-time teaching in 2019, combining his enthusiasm for computing with his dedication to mentoring and inspiring students. He joined LUSoM in 2025. Outside of teaching, he enjoys exploring new gadgets, 3D printing and woodworking.

Natalie is our Estates and Operations Manager. Natalie is responsible for the administrative and student support functions alongside the management and coordination of the outreach programme for the Lancaster University School of Mathematics.

Natalie graduated from the University of Central Lancashire with a degree in Business Studies and then went on to pursue a longstanding career in retail management. After a fulfilling 16 years in the retail sector, Natalie made the decision to broaden her horizons and seek a new opportunity in the education sector working in a HR role previously. Natalie has worked at LUSoM since August 2023 and is thrilled to be part of the school’s exciting future.

Alyssia is our Outreach and Operations Coordinator. Alyssia first started with LUSoM completing an apprenticeship in Business Administration through Runshaw College, after making the move from Merseyside to Lancashire.

Alyssia can mainly be found working from reception, offering a friendly face for students, parents and visitors alike. Alyssia is responsible for the day-to-day administrative functions for LUSoM as well as working closely with Natalie to support with the various operational tasks of the school.

Alyssia also works within the admissions team, supporting applicants on their journey to LUSoM. Alyssia is available to answer queries over the phone or via email, or face-to-face at open days.

Alyssia works with Wing to support in delivering all aspects of LUSoM extensive and varied outreach programmes.

Alexi is the administrator here at LUSoM and you will often find her based at reception offering a friendly face and welcoming visitors. She is the first point of contact for visitors and students alike and is there to help with any queries you may have. Alexi supports the day-to-day administrative functions of the college while providing guidance and support to students throughout their time in college. She works closely with Natalie and Alyssia to help ensure the smooth running of the college environment.

Alexi started working at LUSoM in April 2026, after spending the last 5 years working in animal care and charities. Having worked at the RSPCA for 2.5 years, she has gained a passion for being in a caring and supportive role and she is thrilled to start a new journey as a part of the LUSoM team.

Wendy is our Financial and Administrative Officer and is responsible for ensuring that LUSoMs financial records and controls are accurate and robust, and she also supports the administration team with the everyday functions of school operations.

Wendy started her career in Private Sector accounting at the age of 16 and studied the Association of Accounting Technicians course on day release becoming a Member in 1996. After a few years working within the Private Sector, Wendy moved across to Public Sector financing where she has had a long and rewarding career, first working for the Police and then moving across to the Fire Service where she remained for 24 years.

Seeking a new challenge, Wendy has moved across to the Education Sector by joining LUSoM in March 2025 and is really looking forward to being part of this exciting new venture.

Maurice is our Chief Financial Officer, overseeing budgeting, financial planning, resource allocation, and regulatory compliance to support Lancaster University School of Mathematics long‑term financial stability and effective use of resources.

As a Chartered Management Accountant, Maurice brings extensive financial management experience from both the public and private sectors. After 20 years in the Financial Services industry, he transitioned to the Education sector in 2021, leading the Finance team at a local college.

Maurice played a significant role in the pre‑opening financial planning for LUSOM and was appointed Chief Financial Officer when the school opened in September 2022. He continues to provide financial leadership and works closely with Pete, the Head of School, using his financial expertise to ensure the school remains financially well‑positioned to deliver outstanding outcomes for its students.

Connor Peacock is our Science Technician, with a lifelong passion for science he gained a first class degree in Biology from the University of Central Lancashire, engaging in research activities, outreach through open days, and assisting in the practical activities for foundation students whilst a student himself.

Before working in education Connor worked in the Biochemical, and Biopharmaceutical research and manufacturing industry.  He then went on to work in a secondary school with a sixth form contingent, first as a teaching assistant, and then a science technician as he wanted to dedicate himself to aiding in the delivery of first class practical activities.

Connor is excited to be a part of the LUSoM community and its passion and dedication to math’s and the sciences.