Introducing our Business and Economics Subject Advisors...

Debbie Malpas

Part of the Business Team since 2014

"I joined OCR in August 2014 and have worked on the redevelopment of our GCSE Business and the Cambridge National in Enterprise and Marketing. I also support teachers through the development of a variety of resources, the CPD programme and subject communications. 

Before joining, I spent over 20 years in teaching and leadership roles. I have worked in secondary schools, a sixth form college and international school in Shropshire and Cambridge. I hold a degree in Business Operations and a PGCE in Secondary Economics and Business from the University of Warwick. In my spare time, I enjoy visiting family in the Midlands and I also write for Cambridge University Press."

Sarah Phillips

Part of the Business Team since 2022

"I've recently joined OCR and am looking forward to working with the Subject Advisor team on many of the new projects planned, including the redevelopment of business courses. 

"Before joining, I spent over 20 years teaching, teacher training and leadership in the UK and overseas. As well as teaching Business, Economics and Finance, I have held leadership roles including Head of Department, Head of Sixth Form and Assistant Principal. I hold a degree in Business Economics and the RSA Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA).  I have also been an assessor for A Level Economics and am looking forward to bringing my recent classroom experience and leadership in education, to my role here at OCR.

"In my spare time, I enjoy reading and visiting family and friends in various parts of the UK and abroad. With family in the French Alps, I’ve set myself a challenge to improve my skiing beyond blue runs. Watch this space!"

Mark Sirot-Smith

Part of the Business Team since 2023

"I'm the newest member of the Subject Advisor team and am especially looking forward to getting involved with Business and Economics departments in schools and colleges as we start to redevelop our business courses.

"Before joining OCR, I spent over 30 years in teaching, lecturing and senior leadership in a variety of secondary schools and FE colleges. I've planned, delivered and assessed both general and vocational business courses at levels 2 and 3, as well as HNC and HND (levels 4 and 5). I hope to bring this experience and understanding of learner progression to my OCR role.

"I love being active and in addition to taking my dog on long walks, I enjoy watching and participating in a range of sports including tennis and cricket.  I'll often visit my three grown-up children in the midlands and north, especially if I can combine it with watching a Crystal Palace FC away game!"