IMOGEN LOXAM

Founder, CEO

Trustee

Thriving Through Recreation was founded because it isn't fair that some children and young people have more access than others to essential forms of learning. ​​

​I studied at Cambridge University, specializing in Education, Child and Adolescent Psychology, and Educational Psychology, and then continued my professional development through studies in Youth Work and Community Development. The contrast between the extraordinary opportunities at the University of Cambridge and the levels of poverty in some areas of the city of Cambridge itself has inspired much of my work.

I have spent 20 years working with children and young people, across several continents, in both a delivery and advisory capacity. I have also chaired the board of an Early Year’s Education CIO and led on SEND as a Governor to a state Primary School. Safeguarding has permeated all my years in the field, including working alongside Social Services with children and young people who have Child Protection Plans.

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I have three wonderful children, and parenting them has honed my skill set. They are enthusiastic little humans who have a zest for boundless learning. Witnessing them thrive through recreational learning inspired me to develop an idea that had been consistently brewing throughout my career. Thriving Through Recreation was born.

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In my role with Thriving Through Recreation I endeavour to champion equitable access to recreational learning with innovative and flexible thinking, kindness, and robust accountability. 

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In my recreation time, I like to hike, write, and play the piano very badly.

ELIZABETH RILEY

Trustee

Every child is unique and has their own strengths and skills, and they deserve the opportunity to thrive.

I am a Mathematics graduate and have worked in data analysis for most of my working career. I have a love of numbers, spreadsheets, and data, but I also love to set myself a sporting challenge or two. Most recently I’ve completed the virtual London Marathon and the Ride London 100 mile bike ride, as well as taking part in various 10km and half marathon runs. A new activity I discovered later in life is orienteering. 

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I also sit on the board of trustees for a local rape crisis centre, and have been part of their fundraising volunteer team. It is amazing to see what changes can be brought about in a person’s life when they are provided with the right support.

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I am also a mother to a lovely daughter, and I am constantly learning so much from her.

As a child I was fortunate to be able to take part in various activities, from sports clubs to musical groups. I believe every child should be able to access activities that are not part of the regular school day. It can provide such a great opportunity to develop skills and to learn about yourself in a way that school may not be able to provide.

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Richard Carter

Chair of Trustees

I am particularly keen to ensure that Thriving Through Recreation has an effective board that can provide good governance, advice and oversight.

​I have worked in the field of international water development for nearly 50 years, focusing my research, consultancy and education activities on low-income countries especially in sub-Saharan Africa. I have served on the advisory boards and boards of trustees of several charities and philanthropic foundations.  

In my role as a trustee I am particularly keen to ensure that the charity has an effective board that can provide good governance advice and oversight. It goes without saying that every board member should share and help to shape the charity’s vision and strategy. I am inspired by the mission of Thriving Through Recreation as I recognise the high value of recreational activities for young people.

Jenny McGoldrick

Trustee

I care deeply about children and young people and think that everyone should have the chance to try new things, because it builds confidence and resilience.

​​​I began my career with professional childcare for young children. Then after completing a degree in Psychology, I started specialist support work to young people by providing trips, youth clubs and 1:1 support, including for young people on the cusp of going into care or offending. After moving away from the front-line and into management, I ran a children’s centre where I oversaw group and family work, and I am currently heading up a new intervention initiative that provides support to young people who may have offending behaviours. We work with them to explore a different path by providing them with positive activities.

As a trustee I am excited by how Thriving Through Recreation will give children and young people a chance to thrive in a world where, at times, that is getting harder. Everyone deserves to thrive, and I hope this amazing charity will help children and young people to try something new and exciting!

Jane Spencer

Trustee

I aim to ensure Thriving Through Recreation safeguards all involved in it to the highest level and support clear leadership and good governance so that we can offer all we say we will.

​It is a joy to be a Trustee for ‘Thrive through Recreation’!

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My working experience has been as a leader in primary education, teacher training and schools advisory work. To enable young people to engage in recreational activities that offer them new experiences, friendships and a chance to develop their own recreational passions is so important to their individual well-being and lifelong learning. It has been a pleasure to encourage young children to take part in a wide range of recreational activities throughout my working life. Work has also enabled me to work with individuals and parents/carers to obtain EHCPs and then support the delivery of those plans. In and outside of the working environment I have also led on safeguarding children and young people for schools, charities and churches.

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As a Trustee I will aim to ensure this charity safeguards all involved in it at the highest level. I will seek to support clear leadership and good governance so we can offer all we say we will professionally and purposefully.

I was offered wonderful recreational experiences as a child and these have included playing a range of ball sports, playing instruments and learning to garden. It has been a delight to see my three children embrace their own passions in a similar way.