The People Behind Your Next Placement
We aren't just recruiters, we are real people who understand education. Meet the people who Thrive to place professionals into environments that care for their pupils, teachers and parents.
Proudly placing professionals across the Southwest and Midlands
Meet Our Managing Director Ellis Jackson
Thrive was founded in 2020 by my wife Jen, a qualified teacher, and me, built on a simple belief: when practitioners are treated with respect, listened to and properly supported, everyone benefits, especially schools and pupils.
As a current School Governor, I bring first-hand insight into the real challenges schools face, from recruitment pressures to accountability and funding. This ensures Thrive remains grounded, practical, and aligned with the realities of education today.
Meet Our Managing Director Ellis Jackson
Thrive was founded in 2020 by my wife Jen, a qualified teacher, and me, built on a simple belief: when practitioners are treated with respect, listened to and properly supported, everyone benefits, especially schools and pupils.
As a current School Governor, I bring first-hand insight into the real challenges schools face, from recruitment pressures to accountability and funding. This ensures Thrive remains grounded, practical, and aligned with the realities of education today.
Meet Our Managing Director Ellis Jackson
"Thrive was founded in 2020 by my wife Jen, a qualified teacher, and me, built on a simple belief: when practitioners are treated with respect, listened to and properly supported, everyone benefits, especially schools and pupils.
As a current School Governor, I bring first-hand insight into the real challenges schools face, from recruitment pressures to accountability and funding. This ensures Thrive remains grounded, practical, and aligned with the realities of education today."
Meet The Team at Thrive Education
Jennifer Jackson | Non Assiociate Director
‘Chief Reality Checker-in-Residence’
Read more
Jennifer Jackson here, Associate Director at Thrive Education and, unofficially, Chief Reality Checker-in-Residence. My primary responsibility is keeping my husband Ellis just the right side of sensible, making sure every bright idea is grounded in what actually works for teachers, pupils and schools. By day, I am a secondary school teacher and Head of Department at a local school in Gloucester, where I have spent the past decade in the thick of it. That means marking into the evening, navigating curriculum changes and perfecting the art of explaining the same concept multiple ways until it finally clicks. In other words, I do not just talk about education, I live it. That is exactly why being part of Thrive Education feels like such a good fit. It is genuinely refreshing to be involved with an organisation that listens to the classroom voice, especially as I tend to bring that voice whether anyone has asked for it or not. Thrive does not just operate in education, it stays firmly rooted in the day to day reality of schools. That means fewer grand ideas that sound nice on paper and more decisions that actually make sense on a rainy Tuesday afternoon in a real classroom. So yes, I help keep Ellis in check, but more importantly I help ensure Thrive stays focused on what matters most. Practical, thoughtful support for the people who keep schools running every day. And if that involves the occasional well timed reality check, then that is all part of the job.
Sam Gibbons | Education Recruitment Consultant
“From the classroom to recruitment”
Read more
I began my career training as a primary school teacher, which gave me a strong foundation in understanding the needs of both pupils and teachers. Through my training, I developed key skills in communication, organisation, and adaptability, as well as a genuine appreciation for the challenges and rewards of working in education. This experience now plays a central role in my work as an Education Recruitment Consultant at Thrive Education. Having first-hand insight into the classroom allows me to better understand what schools are looking for and to support candidates in finding roles where they can truly thrive. I’m passionate about building strong relationships, matching the right people to the right opportunities, and making a positive impact on schools and students alike. Outside of work, I’m a big Wolves fan and enjoy following their matches whenever I can. I also love spending time in Cornwall, making the most of the coast and a good opportunity to unwind with my young family.
Gareth Ludlow | Branch Manager
“If a ‘Dad joke’ was a person…”
Read more
I have worked in recruitment for over 10 years now and have the frown lines to prove it .. Dad to a whirlwind 3-year-old, so basically work is my respite. These write ups always sound so generic and forced but I really do love my job, there are days I want to pull my hair out and scream but that’s recruitment for you! Alongside being the branch manager I also look after all things secondary based finding both long and short term opportunities for qualified teachers and awesome cover supervisors. I’m talkative, a bit of an over sharer but I do know when to shut up and listen and I really do care and take an intertest in each of my schools and candidates, it’s the part of the job which is truly fulfilling and if I am on the phone having a good natter to you I don’t have to do any admin or make my colleagues a brew!!
Jade Turner | Lead Consultant
‘ A big heart for inclusive education’
Read more
I’m a qualified teacher with a big heart for inclusive education, and a healthy sense of humour to go with it. Life at home keeps me on my toes as a mum to two autistic children, which means I’ve had a crash course (and then some!) in patience, creativity, and the art of celebrating every win, no matter how small. It’s this lived experience that’s really fuelled my passion for the SEN and the ongoing support that Teaching Assistants provide not only to schools but to the children they support. I’m all about creating spaces where every child feels seen, supported, and able to shine, while keeping things as positive and practical as possible (with the occasional well timed cup of tea). Outside of all that, I’m a loyal Liverpool supporter, which I can only assume is some sort of long-term penance. Highs, lows, and everything in between… but I’m in it for the long haul!
Howard Lynch | Teaching Assistant Specialist
“Matching the right people to the right roles”
Read more
I support Teaching Assistants across Gloucester, Stroud, Cirencester, South Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, using my extensive knowledge of the sector, my desire to create opportunities for both prospective TA’s and the learners they support and a bucket load of coffee. Having supported students with SEMH needs prior to starting in Education recruitment 5 years ago, I take the time to understand the needs of the requirements of the schools whilst also listening to the people we work with, taking the time to properly understand what they are looking for so I can marry up the right people with the right roles. In my spare time you can often find me running around, either chasing my two girls or running away from a herd of angry cows as a result of another poorly planned trail run.
Josh Hudd | Early Years Consultant
I’m the newest and youngest member at Thrive’
Read more
Hi, I’m Josh Hudd, the Early Years Consultant at Thrive Education, working with private nurseries, nursery groups, and preschools across Gloucestershire. I bring over 10 years of experience working with children aged 2–14 across a variety of settings, including after-school clubs, summer camps, activity programmes, and classroom environments. Early Years education has always been close to home for me—my dad was Gloucestershire’s first male assistant nursery nurse, and my sister is an EYFS teacher, so you could say it’s in my blood. I’m passionate about connecting great people with great settings. Having worked directly with children and education providers myself, I understand the importance of trust, communication, and finding the right fit for both candidates and nurseries. I take the time to get to know every candidate personally, helping them find opportunities where they can thrive, grow, and make a real difference.
Jennifer Jackson | Non Assiociate Director
‘Chief Reality Checker-in-Residence’
Read more
Jennifer Jackson here, Associate Director at Thrive Education and, unofficially, Chief Reality Checker-in-Residence. My primary responsibility is keeping my husband Ellis just the right side of sensible, making sure every bright idea is grounded in what actually works for teachers, pupils and schools. By day, I am a secondary school teacher and Head of Department at a local school in Gloucester, where I have spent the past decade in the thick of it. That means marking into the evening, navigating curriculum changes and perfecting the art of explaining the same concept multiple ways until it finally clicks. In other words, I do not just talk about education, I live it. That is exactly why being part of Thrive Education feels like such a good fit. It is genuinely refreshing to be involved with an organisation that listens to the classroom voice, especially as I tend to bring that voice whether anyone has asked for it or not. Thrive does not just operate in education, it stays firmly rooted in the day to day reality of schools. That means fewer grand ideas that sound nice on paper and more decisions that actually make sense on a rainy Tuesday afternoon in a real classroom. So yes, I help keep Ellis in check, but more importantly I help ensure Thrive stays focused on what matters most. Practical, thoughtful support for the people who keep schools running every day. And if that involves the occasional well timed reality check, then that is all part of the job.
Gareth Ludlow | Branch Manager
“If a ‘Dad joke’ was a person…”
Read more
I have worked in recruitment for over 10 years now and have the frown lines to prove it .. Dad to a whirlwind 3-year-old, so basically work is my respite. These write ups always sound so generic and forced but I really do love my job, there are days I want to pull my hair out and scream but that’s recruitment for you! Alongside being the branch manager I also look after all things secondary based finding both long and short term opportunities for qualified teachers and awesome cover supervisors. I’m talkative, a bit of an over sharer but I do know when to shut up and listen and I really do care and take an intertest in each of my schools and candidates, it’s the part of the job which is truly fulfilling and if I am on the phone having a good natter to you I don’t have to do any admin or make my colleagues a brew!!
Howard Lynch | Teaching Assistant Specialist
“Matching the right people to the right roles”
Read more
I support Teaching Assistants across Gloucester, Stroud, Cirencester, South Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, using my extensive knowledge of the sector, my desire to create opportunities for both prospective TA’s and the learners they support and a bucket load of coffee. Having supported students with SEMH needs prior to starting in Education recruitment 5 years ago, I take the time to understand the needs of the requirements of the schools whilst also listening to the people we work with, taking the time to properly understand what they are looking for so I can marry up the right people with the right roles. In my spare time you can often find me running around, either chasing my two girls or running away from a herd of angry cows as a result of another poorly planned trail run.
Sam Gibbons | Education Recruitment Consultant
“From the classroom to recruitment”
Read more
I began my career training as a primary school teacher, which gave me a strong foundation in understanding the needs of both pupils and teachers. Through my training, I developed key skills in communication, organisation, and adaptability, as well as a genuine appreciation for the challenges and rewards of working in education. This experience now plays a central role in my work as an Education Recruitment Consultant at Thrive Education. Having first-hand insight into the classroom allows me to better understand what schools are looking for and to support candidates in finding roles where they can truly thrive. I’m passionate about building strong relationships, matching the right people to the right opportunities, and making a positive impact on schools and students alike. Outside of work, I’m a big Wolves fan and enjoy following their matches whenever I can. I also love spending time in Cornwall, making the most of the coast and a good opportunity to unwind with my young family.
Jade Turner | Lead Consultant
‘ A big heart for inclusive education’
Read more
I’m a qualified teacher with a big heart for inclusive education, and a healthy sense of humour to go with it. Life at home keeps me on my toes as a mum to two autistic children, which means I’ve had a crash course (and then some!) in patience, creativity, and the art of celebrating every win, no matter how small. It’s this lived experience that’s really fuelled my passion for the SEN and the ongoing support that Teaching Assistants provide not only to schools but to the children they support. I’m all about creating spaces where every child feels seen, supported, and able to shine, while keeping things as positive and practical as possible (with the occasional well timed cup of tea). Outside of all that, I’m a loyal Liverpool supporter, which I can only assume is some sort of long-term penance. Highs, lows, and everything in between… but I’m in it for the long haul!
Josh Hudd | Early Years Consultant
I’m the newest and youngest member at Thrive’
Read more
Hi, I’m Josh Hudd, the Early Years Consultant at Thrive Education, working with private nurseries, nursery groups, and preschools across Gloucestershire. I bring over 10 years of experience working with children aged 2–14 across a variety of settings, including after-school clubs, summer camps, activity programmes, and classroom environments. Early Years education has always been close to home for me—my dad was Gloucestershire’s first male assistant nursery nurse, and my sister is an EYFS teacher, so you could say it’s in my blood. I’m passionate about connecting great people with great settings. Having worked directly with children and education providers myself, I understand the importance of trust, communication, and finding the right fit for both candidates and nurseries. I take the time to get to know every candidate personally, helping them find opportunities where they can thrive, grow, and make a real difference.
Jennifer Jackson | Non Assiociate Director
‘Chief Reality Checker-in-Residence’
Read more
Jennifer Jackson here, Associate Director at Thrive Education and, unofficially, Chief Reality Checker-in-Residence. My primary responsibility is keeping my husband Ellis just the right side of sensible, making sure every bright idea is grounded in what actually works for teachers, pupils and schools. By day, I am a secondary school teacher and Head of Department at a local school in Gloucester, where I have spent the past decade in the thick of it. That means marking into the evening, navigating curriculum changes and perfecting the art of explaining the same concept multiple ways until it finally clicks. In other words, I do not just talk about education, I live it. That is exactly why being part of Thrive Education feels like such a good fit. It is genuinely refreshing to be involved with an organisation that listens to the classroom voice, especially as I tend to bring that voice whether anyone has asked for it or not. Thrive does not just operate in education, it stays firmly rooted in the day to day reality of schools. That means fewer grand ideas that sound nice on paper and more decisions that actually make sense on a rainy Tuesday afternoon in a real classroom. So yes, I help keep Ellis in check, but more importantly I help ensure Thrive stays focused on what matters most. Practical, thoughtful support for the people who keep schools running every day. And if that involves the occasional well timed reality check, then that is all part of the job.
Howard Lynch | Teaching Assistant Specialist
“Matching the right people to the right roles”
Read more
I support Teaching Assistants across Gloucester, Stroud, Cirencester, South Gloucestershire and Wiltshire, using my extensive knowledge of the sector, my desire to create opportunities for both prospective TA’s and the learners they support and a bucket load of coffee. Having supported students with SEMH needs prior to starting in Education recruitment 5 years ago, I take the time to understand the needs of the requirements of the schools whilst also listening to the people we work with, taking the time to properly understand what they are looking for so I can marry up the right people with the right roles. In my spare time you can often find me running around, either chasing my two girls or running away from a herd of angry cows as a result of another poorly planned trail run.
Jade Turner | Lead Consultant
‘ A big heart for inclusive education’
Read more
I’m a qualified teacher with a big heart for inclusive education, and a healthy sense of humour to go with it. Life at home keeps me on my toes as a mum to two autistic children, which means I’ve had a crash course (and then some!) in patience, creativity, and the art of celebrating every win, no matter how small. It’s this lived experience that’s really fuelled my passion for the SEN and the ongoing support that Teaching Assistants provide not only to schools but to the children they support. I’m all about creating spaces where every child feels seen, supported, and able to shine, while keeping things as positive and practical as possible (with the occasional well timed cup of tea). Outside of all that, I’m a loyal Liverpool supporter, which I can only assume is some sort of long-term penance. Highs, lows, and everything in between… but I’m in it for the long haul!
Gareth Ludlow | Branch Manager
“If a ‘Dad joke’ was a person…”
Read more
I have worked in recruitment for over 10 years now and have the frown lines to prove it .. Dad to a whirlwind 3-year-old, so basically work is my respite. These write ups always sound so generic and forced but I really do love my job, there are days I want to pull my hair out and scream but that’s recruitment for you! Alongside being the branch manager I also look after all things secondary based finding both long and short term opportunities for qualified teachers and awesome cover supervisors. I’m talkative, a bit of an over sharer but I do know when to shut up and listen and I really do care and take an intertest in each of my schools and candidates, it’s the part of the job which is truly fulfilling and if I am on the phone having a good natter to you I don’t have to do any admin or make my colleagues a brew!!
Sam Gibbons | Education Recruitment Consultant
“From the classroom to recruitment”
Read more
I began my career training as a primary school teacher, which gave me a strong foundation in understanding the needs of both pupils and teachers. Through my training, I developed key skills in communication, organisation, and adaptability, as well as a genuine appreciation for the challenges and rewards of working in education. This experience now plays a central role in my work as an Education Recruitment Consultant at Thrive Education. Having first-hand insight into the classroom allows me to better understand what schools are looking for and to support candidates in finding roles where they can truly thrive. I’m passionate about building strong relationships, matching the right people to the right opportunities, and making a positive impact on schools and students alike. Outside of work, I’m a big Wolves fan and enjoy following their matches whenever I can. I also love spending time in Cornwall, making the most of the coast and a good opportunity to unwind with my young family.
Josh Hudd | Early Years Consultant
I’m the newest and youngest member at Thrive’
Read more
Hi, I’m Josh Hudd, the Early Years Consultant at Thrive Education, working with private nurseries, nursery groups, and preschools across Gloucestershire. I bring over 10 years of experience working with children aged 2–14 across a variety of settings, including after-school clubs, summer camps, activity programmes, and classroom environments. Early Years education has always been close to home for me—my dad was Gloucestershire’s first male assistant nursery nurse, and my sister is an EYFS teacher, so you could say it’s in my blood. I’m passionate about connecting great people with great settings. Having worked directly with children and education providers myself, I understand the importance of trust, communication, and finding the right fit for both candidates and nurseries. I take the time to get to know every candidate personally, helping them find opportunities where they can thrive, grow, and make a real difference.
More than Recruiters...
We’re a team of real people, with real experience in education, who take the time to understand the schools we work with and the professionals we support.
Every relationship built and every candidate placed is a true reflection of the hard work, dedication and motivation the team puts in every day.
We are Parents First.
Professionals Second..
Thrive was built to challenge the way recruitment in education is typically done.
Too often, candidates feel like numbers and schools feel like transactions.
We believe in doing things differently.
Not only are we recruitment specialists, but our workforce are 86% parents and educators. We understand and value the importance of good, passionate teachers, the relationships they foster and the future they influence. We always aim for better outcomes for schools, staff, pupils and parents.
Want to speak to the team?
Want to speak to the team?
Whether you’re a school looking for support or an education professional exploring your next move, we’re here to help.
Whether you’re a school looking for support or an education professional exploring your next move, we’re here to help.
Ready to find the right fit?
Whether you’re searching for your next role or need trusted education professionals for your school, we’re here to help.
