Peter Tiltman
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
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!“
Zoe Knowles
Zoe Knowles is the Head of Physics at LUSoM. Her passion for maths and science began at a local 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.
Zoe Knowles is our Head of Physics at LUSoM. Zoe developed a love for maths and science whilst attending a local comprehensive school. From there she completed her A-levels, followed by a BSc (Hons) in Physics with Computational Physics at Lancaster University, where she achieved 1st class degree and was awarded a Bowland College Prize. Zoe then went on to study a PhD in Astrophysics.
Before becoming a teacher, Zoe worked in the field of research and development in the aerospace and defence industry, where she won an award for innovation. Zoe’s first teaching appointment was at UCLAN, teaching undergraduates. She then became a physics teacher at Runshaw College where she worked for 13 years. During this time, Zoe progressed to course leader in physics and managed the physics course for 8 years.
Whilst a student, Zoe learnt to fly a light aeroplane. Zoe’s other hobby during this time was dancing. Although she had to turn down a place at stage school to focus on her studies in STEM, her love for the West-End was rekindled when she later opened a dance school, teaching Ballet, Tap, Modern, and Musical Theatre to children.
Ryan Parkin
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.
Andy Bottomley
Andy Bottomley is one of our teachers of maths. Andy has enjoyed the logical and problem-solving aspects of the subject from a very young age and after studying Further Maths, Physics and Chemistry for A Level at his secondary school in Oldham he went onto Oxford University to complete an undergraduate Master’s degree in Maths and Stats.
Andy went straight from university into teaching at an independent school in London, but returned to academia three years later to gain a Master of Research degree in Stats and Operational Research at Lancaster University. Missing the classroom, he soon found himself back teaching in London where he balanced his Maths teaching with plenty of sport – in particular playing, and coaching, a lot of football.
Andy joined Westminster School in 2018 but, after a total of 12 years teaching down south, Andy was drawn back to the north-west in 2023 to become part of the exciting LUSoM project.
George Lythgoe
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 Bercial
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.
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Wing Liu
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.
Natalie Fleming
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.
Wendy Hull
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.
Alyssia Clark
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.
Saarah Bhayat
Saarah Bhayat joined LUSoM as our new Science Technician in August 2024. Saarah’s passion for the sciences, particularly biology and chemistry, has driven her academic and professional journey. After excelling at Cardinal Newman College, where she achieved top grades in A-level Biology, Chemistry, and Sociology, she pursued a BSc (Hons) in Biomedical Science at the University of Central Lancashire, graduating with First Class Honors.
Her interest in research expanded during her undergraduate studies, leading her to complete a Master’s of Research in Cancer Biology and Therapy. Through this program, she gained extensive hands-on experience in advanced laboratory techniques, including cell culture and microscopy. She has also developed a strong foundation in laboratory health and safety protocols, which are crucial for ensuring a safe and efficient work environment. Saarah is excited to bring her expertise and dedication to her role at LUSoM.
