Meet the Team
At Gnarwhal Skate School, it’s all about fun, learning, and pushing limits — and our crew brings that energy every time we hit the skatepark. From seasoned pros to young legends, each of us is here to share skills, hype each other up, and make sure everyone has a blast on the board.
Whether it’s coaching, creating, or just inspiring the next generation of skaters, our team combines years of experience, a love for the sport, and a big dash of mischief. Come meet us, roll with us, and see why Gnarwhal isn’t just a school — it’s a skate family.
Ricky Tunbridge
Lead coach and founder of Gnarwhal Skate School.
Rick’s been skating for over 26 years and teaching in the local scene for the past four. He’s all about helping people have fun, build confidence, and push their limits — whether you’re stepping on a board for the first time or chasing new tricks.
When he’s not at the skatepark, he’s probably on a snowboard somewhere. Rick’s spent the last decade teaching snowboarding around the world, and he brings that same energy and flow to every skate lesson.
Off the board, Rick’s a big kid at heart. You’ll usually find him hanging out with his two little rippers, exploring, laughing, and getting into all sorts of mischief.
Chris Humphreys
Coach and ideas man
Chris has been part of the Gnarwhal crew for a couple of years now — but his journey started when Rick taught his youngest, Reed, how to skate. Before long, his other kids, Jase and Amelia (aka Ethel), jumped on boards too. As the school grew, Chris threw his hat in the ring, started helping out, and quickly became Rick’s right-hand man.
These days, you’ll always find the whole crew at sessions — skating, learning, and growing together.
When he’s not skating, Chris is usually training for something big — whether it’s a triathlon, a long ride, or a run. He’s a total all-round athlete. And when he finally slows down, he’s right back into it with his kids at the hobby desk or gaming table, painting and playing Warhammer alongside being out in the wilderness foraging.
Drew Wright
Coach and general good guy
What can we even say about Drew? He is skateboarding. If the skatepark were a person, it’d probably be him. For a young dude, he’s miles ahead of the game — on and off the board. Drew learns tricks like it’s nothing and brings all the energy (and a few weird contraptions) every time he rolls in. He’s the ultimate hype man.
Over the past year, Drew’s been a huge part of Gnarwhal — helping run skate camps, keeping the vibes high, and making sure everyone’s having a blast. We honestly couldn’t do it without him.
When he’s not practically living at the skatepark, you’ll find Drew in his shed, crafting some seriously cool gear for his project Sk8kraft. Go check it out and support the grind!
Jess Baker
Behind the scenes guru
She’ll never admit it, but Jess has been a massive part of getting Gnarwhal Skate School rolling from day one. The idea was born on a picnic bench, and she’s been there ever since — designing our logos, helping with the website, and coming up with fresh ideas for coaching and adaptive sessions.
Jess has been a snowboard instructor for over eight years, teaching everywhere from local slopes to incredible spots around the world. When she’s not skating or riding with Rick, she’s usually chasing winter somewhere — following her dream and inspiring riders wherever she goes.
We honestly wouldn’t be here without her. So if you see Jess at the park, make sure to give her a high five — and keep an eye out for her new business venture coming soon!
Leoni Harris
Safeguarding officer
Leoni has been with the Gnarwhal team from day one, making sure everything runs safely and smoothly. With over 10 years as an infant school teacher, she knows exactly how to look after kids — and she’s completed just about every safeguarding course you can imagine.
If you ever have concerns about children’s safeguarding, Leoni is the person to contact. She’ll make sure everything is handled correctly and through the right channels: Leoni.harris@burham.kent.sch.uk
