Maddie Garner-Stocks – Director

Maddie’s journey into the SEND sector began when Esther invited her to join a SEND recruitment team. Maddie quickly became fascinated by the sector – learning about diverse needs, specialist settings, and what motivates people to support vulnerable young people. With over 20 years’ experience as a coach and trainer, helping others grow and develop has always been at the heart of her work.

What she finds most rewarding is the “matchmaking”—connecting the right people with the right roles and hearing how supported pupils feel as a result. Helping people build meaningful careers in SEND, while ensuring young people receive the care and support they deserve, continues to inspire her every day.

Maddie co-founded Sense Education with Esther to make a genuine difference in the sector. As a Director and Head of Compliance, she leads and supports a passionate internal team, creating a positive culture while ensuring every Sense representative is safe, skilled, and ready to make an impact in schools.

She holds a Sports Coaching degree, alongside Safer Recruitment, and SEND safeguarding training.

Outside of work, she loves climbing and mountain biking, spending time in the hills and mountains with her family and her dog. Fresh air, adventure, and a bit of adrenaline are what energise her most.