Jo Rainey
Principal
Ms Jo Rainey is the Principal of Harris Academy Ockendon, a school that has undergone a remarkable transformation under her leadership. Originally from Belfast, Ms Rainey graduated from the University of Ulster with a first-class degree in History and Geography, followed by a PGCE from Leeds University. In 1998, she moved to London to begin her teaching career, driven by a passion for education and a belief in its power to change lives.
Over the past 27 years, Ms Rainey has taught history and held leadership roles in schools across London and Essex, with much of her senior leadership career rooted in Hackney. In 2008, after earning her NPQH, she became a Senior Vice Principal and began preparing for headship, laying the foundation for the transformational leadership she would later bring to Harris Ockendon.
Today, Ms Rainey is proud to be part of the Harris Federation, an organisation with a remarkable track record of turning schools around, taking them from some of the lowest performing in the country to among the very best. With relentless ambition, expert leadership, and an unshakable belief in the potential of every child, Harris Ockendon followed that path, going from struggling to outstanding in record time.
But this wasn’t just improvement. It was a reimagining of what a school could be.
Through high expectations, world-class teaching, and a culture of excellence, Ms Rainey didn’t just raise standards, she redefined what was possible for the Ockendon community. Her leadership turned aspiration into achievement, and challenge into opportunity.
Ms Rainey has an unwavering belief that all students can succeed, and that teachers have the power to transform lives, regardless of a student’s ability, background, social status, or life opportunities. Her vision is rooted in equity, excellence, and the conviction that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and valued.
She is thrilled to be leading Harris Academy Ockendon into its next chapter, and excited about the future that lies ahead, for the academy, for her staff, and most importantly, for her students.