Russell began his teaching career in 1999 as a Drama Teacher at the predecessor school to Lawn Manor Academy, where his roles included Head of Year, Director of Performing & Visual Arts, and Lead Professional for Transfer & Interventions.  Russell had Senior Leadership positions at schools in Bristol and Oxford, before returning to the school in 2014 and subsequently becoming Deputy Headteacher.  Russell felt particularly privileged to be part of the team opening Lawn Manor Academy in 2017 and to see the school truly thrive in its ambition of ‘Inspiring and Creating Futures for All’.  Russell is the secondary schools’ representative on the Swindon Safeguarding Partnership.  In January 2025, Russell was thrilled to take up the position of Head of School at Lawn Manor Academy as part of the Ascend Learning Trust.

Outside of school, Russell enjoys directing shows performed in various theatres across Swindon.  His wife and two young sons share his passion for the Performing Arts.