Julie trained as a violinist at the Royal Academy of Music. She joined the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra at the age of twenty, taking part in extensive concert work, tours, educational projects and recordings. From 2006 - <insert date> Julie took on the role of headteacher, leading inner-city primary schools and supporting leadership in schools in challenging circumstances. 

Julie is on the governing board of a Birmingham preparatory school and is an elected member of the Birmingham Diocesan Board of Education.