meet the team
Ashleigh Stevenson-Leigh
Lead Practioner
As the Lead Practitioner and owner of ASL Education, I have built a reputation as an industry leader in the delivery of high-quality physical education and school sport. My mission has always been clear — to make a measurable and lasting difference in young people’s lives through the transformative power of sport.
A passionate sportsman, I spent 10 years playing rugby at a semi-professional level before moving into coaching with elite clubs including London Irish and Wasps. Following my playing career, I transitioned into education, earning the Association for Physical Education (AfPE) Level 5 Specialism in Primary School PE.
I have worked in close partnership with AfPE and the Youth Sport Trust, contributing to the creation of innovative, high-quality teaching resources that are now helping schools nationwide to raise PE standards.
My expertise has been recognised at a national level, having been selected as the model teacher for the nationwide High Quality PE workshop. I will also once again serve as the model practitioner in the new teaching resources set to be rolled out across the country in the upcoming academic year.
In addition, I am proud to have pioneered a partnership with LIV Golf and Majesticks GC to help roll out their nationwide schools programme, ‘Little Sticks’, which has already seen huge success in introducing golf to children in primary schools across the UK.
Kelsey King-Smith
Lead Gymnastics Coach
Kelsey brings over a decade of coaching experience to her role as Lead Gymnastics Coach at ASL Kids. Coming from a diverse sporting background — including football, horse riding, swimming, dance, and gymnastics — she discovered her true passion for gymnastics as a teenager after training in dance for more than 10 years.
Her coaching journey began at just 15, and she has since worked with some of the sport’s most recognisable names, including Max Whitlock, Gabby Jupp, and the Gadirova twins, all of whom have Olympic or international experience. Kelsey has coached across all areas of gymnastics, from recreational beginners to competitive squads, and honed her skills at respected organisations such as Sapphire Gymnastics.
Specialising in working with children of all ages and abilities, Kelsey is passionate about creating a positive, safe, and engaging environment where every child can grow in confidence and ability. Alongside her gymnastics expertise, she continues to expand her skills in British Sign Language (BSL) and elderly development and mobility.
Kelsey has been part of the ASL Kids team for the past two years, working closely with Ash to deliver outstanding gymnastics provision across schools and holiday camps.
James Amponsah-Mensah
Lead Consultant for Football Development
James A-Mensah is a seasoned football coach, educator, and performance analyst with a robust blend of academic credentials and practical expertise. He earned a BSc in Science and Football, followed by an MSc in Sport Coaching at Liverpool John Moores University (2013–2017), and a PGCE in Secondary Education from Goldsmiths, University of London (2017).
With over eight years of teaching experience, James has delivered high‑quality PE and football instruction across secondary school settings. As a UEFA B Licence certified coach, he has undertaken coaching roles with Watford Ladies, Liverpool WFC, and Morecambe FC Youth, applying elite training methodologies at youth and senior levels.
In performance analysis, James has enhanced team and player development through roles at Everton FC, Tranmere Rovers, and Southport FC. His expertise has also seen him act as a PE consultant and Premier League Games Programme consultant, supporting schools and community initiatives to raise sporting standards.
Furthermore, as an FA Youth Coaching Mentor, he mentors emerging coaches, fostering best practices in youth football development.
Passionate about the power of sport in education, James is committed to inspiring participation, advancing performance, and cultivating strong coaching foundations in young athletes.
Anna Waugh
ASL Kids - Holiday Camp Coach
Anna Waugh is an energetic and dedicated coach whose passion for sport and helping others is driving her towards an exciting career in physiotherapy and sports development.
Currently studying Physiotherapy at the University of Nottingham, Anna combines her academic knowledge with hands-on coaching and leadership experience.
Her coaching journey began five years ago at Redbourn School, where she worked as a netball coach after joining the local women’s netball team, the Redbourn Redkites. Since then, Anna has built an impressive track record in sport, captaining both the University of Nottingham Ladies Lacrosse Team and the UoN Ladies Physio Netball Team, leading both squads to undefeated seasons this year.
Alongside her university commitments, Anna has worked with children in a range of settings, from schools to hospital rehabilitation programmes, witnessing first-hand the transformative impact of sport and exercise.
Her ability to inspire, motivate, and bring out the best in those she works with is matched by her drive to keep learning and developing as a professional.
With her unique blend of coaching expertise, leadership skills, and physiotherapy training, Anna is an up-and-coming talent destined to make a significant impact in the world of sport, health, and performance.
Erin Stevenson-Leigh
ASL Kids - Holiday Camp Coach
Erin Stevenson‑Leigh is a dedicated and ambitious sports enthusiast with over a decade of experience as a football player and a proven track record competing at local and district level across multiple sports. Since completing her work experience at age 16 with ASL Education,
Erin has continued to work with the organisation in multiple roles, gaining valuable hands‑on experience in sports coaching, activity delivery, and child engagement.
Passionate about working with children, Erin brings energy, professionalism, and a positive attitude to every environment. Her strong work ethic and determination ensure she consistently delivers her best, whether on the field, in a coaching capacity, or as part of a team.
In 2026, Erin will begin studying Criminology at the University of Liverpool, where she plans to continue competing in sport at a high level and developing her leadership and teamwork skills.
With a long‑term ambition to combine her academic pursuits with her love for sport, Erin is committed to building a strong foundation for a successful career both on and off the pitch.