Trust Governance Team

Pippa Dodgshon

Chair of the Trust Board

Areas of Expertise/ Specialisms

Education Leadership
Science teaching background

Details of last three roles

Name: MPS Education

Position: Education Consultant

Dates: 2019 to present

Responsibilities:

Education Consultancy services

Name: Hall Cross Academy

Position: Principal

Dates: 2008 to 2019

Responsibilities:

School leadership - Principal

Name: Wingfield Academy

Position: Headteacher

Dates: 2004 to 2008

Responsibilities:

School leadership - Principal

Professional Body Membership(s)

Association for School and College Leaders

General Areas of Expertise to Support a Trust Board

Education

Education Improvement Specific Experience and Skills

Leading significant improvement in outcomes, in challenging circumstances, in three schools.

Specific Leadership and Skills Experience

As above. Aligning behaviour in organisations to core mission.

HR and Data Handling Specific Experience and Skills

In accordance with the requirements for secondary school leadership.

Finance Specific Experience and Skills

As Accounting Officer for the Academy Trust. In accordance with requirements of the lead role, as above.

Brief comments on why your previous experience is relevant

Having been a Trustee of Brighter Futures from its beginning, I took up the role of Chair from January 2024 (rest of sentence deleted). The Board members collectively possess outstanding professional experience and expertise from a range of sectors and a deep knowledge of the social and economic landscape framing the priorities of our family of schools (rest of sentence deleted).

My professional background is one of education leadership, having served as a Secondary Head for 15 years, in Rotherham and Doncaster schools, overseeing significant improvement journeys in each, and semi-retiring in 2019. Prior to that I was a Deputy and Acting Head in Huddersfield, having started in the profession as a science teacher in Nottingham schools. Since retirement, apart from Trustee work, for BFLPT and for the Linacre Institute (the latter now ended), I carried out some consultancy work for DMBC’s Education and Skills strategy development and as a Quality Assurance Officer for the National Teacher Accreditation appropriate body for Early Career Teachers.

My personal philosophy for leadership is to blend uncompromising aspiration with humanity and respect. In such challenging times I am proud to be part of a Trust which stands on those principles. Notwithstanding the challenges, there are exciting times ahead and I will hope to play my part in ensuring that the Trust optimises for each child, young person and staff member the benefits of the collective and collaborative opportunities of being part of Brighter Futures.

Carl Ennis

Areas of Expertise/ Specialisms

A technologist passionate about making digital transformation work for business, I have worked across industries helping organisations improve productivity, sustainability and resilience.

Details of last three roles

Name: Siemens PLC

Position: Chief Executive Officer

Dates: December 2019 - Current Date

Responsibilities:

Responsible for leadership of Siemens activities in the UK&I, with an annual business turnover in excess of £4bn, and over 11,000 employees. We are focused on cutting-edge technology solutions across a broad portfolio of sectors from Heathcare, Mobility, Energy, and Industry.

Working with the Siemens plc board and executives to maximise our value creation for shareholders whilst creating a positive working environment, we have reported continued profitable growth throughout my tenure, despite significant headwinds presented by unprecedented events such as Covid. Reporting to the Siemens AG main board, I am a vocal advocate for the UK&I business, successfully championing growth and inward investment opportunities in the region. I continue to be focused on building strong customer and stakeholder relationships at senior levels and regularly represent Siemens in public-facing activities.

Name: Siemens Energy UK&I

Position: Divisional Managing Director

Dates: January 2015 - December 2019

Responsibilities:

Responsible for all energy management activities in the UK & Ireland, with an annual order intake of £700m, and approx 2,500 people. The business was responsible for a diverse range of products, projects, and services to the energy management market in the UK&I, from traditional transmission & distribution, through decentralised energy solutions, smart grid application, metering operation, and HVDC interconnections. Responsible for the design and implementation of the UK&I strategy, with personal focus on executive customer engagement and thought leadership activities.

Name: Siemens Energy Service, Asia Pacific

Position: President

Dates: October 2011 - December 2014

Responsibilities:

Responsible for all countries in Asia Pacific, with an annual business volume in excess of £1bn, and over 1,400 people across the region & Germany. Key responsibilities included;

Development & implementation of bespoke growth strategies in major growth countries within the region.
Responsible for all stages of the value chain, from strategy definition, opportunity identification, through negotiation, and successful implementation.
Complex breadth of Service offerings, from simple transactional parts delivery, through to complete operation and maintenance responsibility of complete, customer owned, power stations.
Developed regional specific long-term service offerings in line with the market expectation resulting in significant order intake growth in the business.
Collaboration with new unit divisions to deliver customer solutions providing lowest lifecycle costs
Personally responsible for executive level contacts with key customers

Professional Body Membership(s)

2020: Fellow of the IET
2019: Visiting Professor at Newcastle University
1998: Engineering Council Chartered Engineer CEng

General Areas of Expertise to Support a Trust Board

I’m a successful CEO with an engineering background and I have significant leadership experience across product, project and service businesses, in the UK and overseas. I’ve worked in the Power and Infrastructure industries for over 35 years and I started my career as an apprentice. A technologist, passionate about digital transformation I’ve worked across many industries helping businesses and organisations improve productivity, sustainability and resilience. I’m a keen advocate of the skills and diversity agenda.

Education Improvement Specific Experience and Skills

1990 – 1994, Manchester Metropolitan University. BEng (Hons)

Specific Leadership and Skills Experience

With over 35 years’ experience with Siemens, I have held several prominent management positions across Siemens in the UK and overseas.

HR and Data Handling Specific Experience and Skills

Responsible for the operation of a plc & experienced in all relevant data management responsibilities

Finance Specific Experience and Skills

Responsible for the operation of a £4bn plc with a broad range of operating models – with a clear understanding of all relevant financial management of such a business

Brief comments on why your previous experience is relevant

I am the CEO of a major engineering/technology organisation who entered the world of work at 16 as a craft apprentice, so have a strong appreciation for the value of vocational education in a broad array of industries, and am keen to share this experience.

Kate French

Co Vice-Chair of the Trust Board

Areas of Expertise/ Specialisms

Teaching and learning:

Observation and feedback
Improvement strategies and advice
Professional reflection and development

Leadership and management:

Headteacher challenge, advice and support
Identification of school priorities
School improvement and financial planning

Details of last three roles

Name: Freelance Education Consultant

Dates: 2011 - 2018

Responsibilities:

Commissioned school support and challenge (as noted above).

Name: Senior Officer, Doncaster MBC

Position: Principal/Senior Primary School Improvement Adviser

Dates: 1998 - 2010

Responsibilities:

School improvement roles, including:

Primary Strategy Manager and team leader
NQT induction
Music Service Line Manager
Leader in school improvement for range of schools
Governor support
Ofsted inspection
Review leader
Headship appointments
NPQH trainer and assessor

Name: Copley Junior School

Position: Headteacher

Dates: 1992 - 1998

Responsibilities:

Leadership and management of a primary school.

General Areas of Expertise to Support a Trust Board

Areas outlined above, with, in addition:

Experience of committee membership and leadership
Experience as a school governor and chair of board
Experience of school financial management
Ability to establish trust and respect in professional relationships
Ability to make clear judgements and write unambiguous reports

Education Improvement Specific Experience and Skills

My whole career has been in teaching, school leadership and strategic school improvement. I have proven skills, experience and expertise across all these areas. I maintain a strong interest in education and educational development.

Specific Leadership and Skills Experience

Please see above.

HR and Data Handling Specific Experience and Skills

Experience in handling and interpreting school progress data.
Wide experience in staff appointments.
Experience in handling complaints and disciplinary processes.

Finance Specific Experience and Skills

Direct management (as headteacher) of school budget.
Membership and leadership (as governor) of school finance committees.
Understanding of school finance processes and procedures.

Brief comments on why your previous experience is relevant

After a long career in education, covering a wide range of experience, I feel I am able to support the Trust’s work and development through being an active Trustee. I enjoy being part of discussions around vision and strategic development; and being involved in practical support. I am an active member of the Standards and Outcomes Committee. As such, I enjoy visiting schools and talking to school leaders, governors, staff and children. I have also been involved in interviews and performance management, as well as disciplinary panels. I am committed to supporting the Trust in achieving its ambition to do the best we can for the success of our students.

Adam Leach

Areas of Expertise/ Specialisms

Higher Education & Skills
Civic Engagement & Place-Based Partnerships
Government / Policymaking
Data Analysis & Intelligence

Details of last three roles

Name: Sheffield Hallam University

Position: NCIA Programme Director

Dates: September 2022 - Present

Responsibilities:

Lead and provide strategic direction for the National Civic Impact Accelerator (NCIA), a three-year £4.3 million Research England funded programme of work, taking responsibility for the design, development, and delivery of a high performing national programme of research, innovation, and capacity building services, which deliver the operational priorities and strategic aims of the programme and the funding body.

Lead a collaborative set of teams across Sheffield Hallam University and within strategic external partner organisations, providing proactive leadership and ensuring the development and delivery of NCIA priorities and strategic ambitions.

Name: Department for Education / Sheffield Hallam University

Position: Senior Specialist Manager

Dates: November 2018 - September 2022

Responsibilities:

To support Sheffield Hallam University to use data analysis and intelligence to support communities across South Yorkshire and leverage its resources towards places experiencing the greatest challenges.

Lead an operational data intelligence service to generate and deploy analysis to better target, deliver and evaluate the University’s civic activities and strategic approach.

Provide specialist data analysis, intelligence, project management, and graphic design services for the Civic University Network - a national network of universities committed to improving lives and places - and for Sheffield Hallam's civic engagement programmes, including South Yorkshire Futures.

Name: Department for Education

Position: Senior Statistical Officer

Dates: July 2016 - November 2018

Responsibilities:

Lead the production of two major Official Statistics publications, the Initial Teacher Training (ITT) Census, and the ITT Performance Profiles.

Deploy complex analytical techniques to build and strengthen the Department’s evidence base about trainee teachers.

Advise senior policymakers, officials, and ministers on using data analysis and intelligence relating to trainee teachers to change and strengthen national education policy.

General Areas of Expertise to Support a Trust Board

Designing and implementing strategies.
Developing new ways of working.
Using data to focus on improvement.
Programme & project management.

Education Improvement Specific Experience and Skills

Within my role at the Department for Education I was responsible for data analysis and intelligence relating to the recruitment and retention of trainee teachers in England, including advising senior policymakers, officials, and ministers on using data analysis and intelligence to strengthen national education policy.

At Sheffield Hallam University, I led several projects designed to improve the educational health of the South Yorkshire region, including designing and implementing an early years speech, language, and communication skills strategy with the region’s four councils to address regional workforce skills gaps and provide resources and signposting for parents and early years professionals.

Specific Leadership Experience and Skills

I established and now lead the National Civic Impact Accelerator (NCIA), a nationwide ‘what-works’ centre designed to deepen the civic impact of universities across the country. I lead a team of professionals at Sheffield Hallam University and teams of academics and professionals at partner organisations across the country.

HR and Data Handling Specific Experience and Skills

At the Department for Education, I qualified as a Senior Statistical Officer, specialising in complex data analysis and intelligence. My role as Senior Specialist Manager at Sheffield Hallam University focused on using data to identify and address place-based challenges, such as developing a regional geospatial analysis of ‘childhood trauma hotspots’ in South Yorkshire to help South Yorkshire Police and other agencies target their resources at the areas experiencing the greatest challenges.

Finance Specific Experience and Skills

As Programme Director for the NCIA, I am responsible for large budget of public funds.

Brief comments on why your previous experience is relevant

I believe in the power of education to transform lives.

My skills and experience can help Brighter Futures Learning Partnership Trust to realise its vision to develop capable, confident, and compassionate learners who are ready to face the economic and social challenges of the 21st Century.

My career to date has focused on improving educational outcomes from the early years to adulthood, using data analysis to improve national education policy, developing regional strategies to address skills gaps in the children’s workforce, and leveraging the power and resources of educational organisations like universities to drive positive societal change.

Darran Lindley

Areas of Expertise/ Specialisms

Project management
Operational Process & Procedures
Business support
IT System integrations

Details of last three roles

Name: Fresh Retail

Position: Business Development director

Dates: January 2021 to present

Responsibilities:

Working in the Farm Retail sector supporting to implement business initiatives from new build and design (3d visual mapping, space planning and range implementation, IT System development and process improvements. Through fresh retail we have developed and offer a training academy looking at operational routines and automation.

Name: Morrisons

Position: Programme Delivery Manager

Dates: January 2020 to December 2020

Responsibilities:

To deliver business initiatives across Market Street aligned to strategic vision managing a team of 15 Implementation Specialists.

Name: Keelham Farm Shop

Position: Project Manager

Dates: September 2017 to present

Responsibilities:

To implement a project management strategy to focus on business objectives across operational efficiencies, enhancing current proposition and deliver new innovation into the industry.

Professional Body Membership(s)

Association of Project Management

General Areas of Expertise to Support a Trust Board

Project management covering planning and implementation. Business support covering operational efficiencies and data analysis. I also have experience through my roles at Keelham and Sainsburys in HR-related matters including disciplinary, appeals and attendance management. I can therefore bring this expertise to the Board in terms of general HR duties.

HR and Data Handling Specific Experience and Skills

Currently within Fresh Retail I work closely with business owners and system providers in delivering effective solutions. Within this has been data mining, data cleaning and support business through their development and understanding of KPI performance data (Data analytics)

Brief comments on why your previous experience is relevant

As detailed in the above sections, I am a serving Governor and use my experience in project management, HR duties, and data handling to further support my Board. I believe I will be able to provide high-quality commercial and strategic decision-making and guidance to the Board whilst using my Governor experience to articulate this in an education setting.

Sarah Ollier

Areas of Expertise/ Specialisms

I qualified as a Solicitor in 2001 and specialise in litigation and dispute resolution. I am partner in a regional law firm
I have gained my higher rights of audience, which means that I can appear in the higher civil Courts of England and Wales
I am a member of the Property Litigation Association

Details of last three roles

Name: Flint Bishop Limited

Position: Partner

Dates: September 2024 to d

Responsibilities:

I am a partner of the Commercial Dispute Resolution Department and am based at the Derby office. We also have offices in other locations, including in Yorkshire (Sheffield and Leeds).

Name: Keebles (latterly Knights plc)

Position: Partner

Dates: December 2010 - September 2004

Responsibilities:

I was a partner in the dispute resolution department in the Doncaster office for over 10 years and then worked from the Knights Sheffield office.

I have a passion for training and development. For a number of years, I was the supervisor for the trainee solicitors in my office, which involved assisting in the recruitment of trainee solicitors and supervising their 2 years of in-house training. I also have experience of planning and organising skills training for qualified legal staff.

Name: Laurence Keenan Advocates

Position: Partner

Dates: September 1998 - May 2010

Responsibilities:

I trained to be an Isle of Man Advocate at this general practice firm and specialised in offshore litigation.

For a number of years, I was the secretary of Isle of Man Crimestoppers.

Whilst training, I worked in my spare time as a Youth Worker.

Professional Body Membership(s)

I hold a practising certificate from the Solicitors Regulation Authority.

I am a member of the Law Society and the Property Litigation Association.

General Areas of Expertise to Support a Trust Board

I have experience in contributing to decision making at a senior level and in reviewing and analysing large amounts of information to provide concise advice. I have strong project management skills and my role as a solicitor includes communicating effectively with a wide range of interested parties.

Specific Leadership and Skills Experience

I have been at partner level as a solicitor for many years and have been provided legal advice and assistance to clients in high value and complex litigation. In my previous roles, I have led in recruitment, training supervision and business development initiatives.

HR and Data Handling Specific Experience and Skills

As part of the strategy team at Keebles, I was involved with HR decisions and worked alongside the HR team. I am very experienced at data handling and appreciate legal frameworks

Finance Specific Experience and Skills

I have experience of costs budgeting and assessing claim value in litigation. At Keebles, I was involved with strategic financial planning and decision making for my firm.

Brief comments on why your previous experience is relevant

I have a real interest in learning and development and want to be involved with a Doncaster based project that will make a difference to the life chances of young people from all backgrounds. I love working in a team and hope to be able to use my skills and experience to make a real contribution to the Trust.

Professor Alasdair Strachan

Areas of Expertise/ Specialisms

have worked in healthcare for the last 33 years and especially in Healthcare Education for the last 22 years. This included strategic roles within Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) , roles in Doncaster and South Yorkshire as well as nationally.

I have worked with the University of Sheffield and Sheffield Hallam University, with a focus in Sheffield Medical School.

I was recently appointed Honorary Professor of Medical Education in recognition of this work.

I was appointed a Corporate Director, Education and Research within DBTH which included wider Executive responsibilities in this large organisation.

I have a particular interest in widening participation and raising aspirations leading to working with local schools and Colleges.

I have worked with key funding and regulatory bodies and was a member of North of England Health Education England Board.

Details of last three roles

Name: Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospital

Position: Director of Education and Research

Dates: Dec 2019 – Oct 22

Responsibilities:

Corporate Director overseeing all of Education and Research within the 6500 Trust employees and over 1000 students per year. Oversee Research within the Trust and key partners.

Name: Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospital

Position: Director of Education

Dates: 2013-2022

Responsibilities:

Overseeing Education support (as above)

Name: Sheffield Medical School

Position: Academic Lead for Innovation and Development in Clinical Teaching

Dates: 2014-2022

Responsibilities:

Develop innovative ways of delivering the training of medical students working with key stakeholders across South Yorkshire

General Areas of Expertise to Support a Trust Board

Worked in Exec group within DBTH and member of Board for North of England Health Education England. As an Executive Director I have experience with governance structures and management of large budgets.

Education Improvement Specific Experience and Skills

I have supported many education improvement initiatives in DBTH, regionally and nationally. I had a specific role within Sheffield Medical School to improve training.

I set up the first Clinical Simulation Centre in the North of England and was Chair of the National Association of Medial Simulators where I supported other Centres. I also chaired a Yorkshire and Humber Committee to develop Clinical skills training in the region which included £17 million investment.

I have led the development of work experience and widening participation for students entering healthcare within Doncaster and Bassetlaw.

Specific Leadership and Skills Experience

See section 2 above

HR and Data Handling Specific Experience and Skills

As Director of a department with 100 staff and also with over 1000 students I have a wide range of HR experience.

As Corporate Director I am familiar with handling complex data within the organisation. As Director of Research we managed data within a highly regulated environment

Finance Specific Experience and Skills

As Director of Education and Research I managed a large budget.

I have successful experience in developing and delivering large bids in Education and Research

Brief comments on why your previous experience is relevant

I have extensive experience working in an Executive capacity in a large organisation.

Through my regional work with key partners including DMBC, Universities and Colleges I am aware of the challenges and opportunities.

I was part of the group that helped develop Doncaster UTC so aware of working relationships with DfE, DMBC etc.

I am aware of the value of a broad based education of students to employers and educational establishments.

Heather Wain

Chair of the Trust Standards and Outcomes Committee Trust / Safeguarding Lead

Areas of Expertise/ Specialisms

Science Education
Initial Teacher Education

Details of last three roles

Name: Full-time student

Position: BA Archaeology - Leicester University

Dates: Present

Name: Sheffield Hallam University

Position: Deputy Head of Department, Sheffield Institute of Education

Dates: April 2018 - present

Responsibilities:

Initial Teacher Education - curriculum developments and Ofsted preparation
student experience
teaching learning and assessment

Name: Sheffield Hallam University

Position: Principal Lecturer, Head of Secondary Undergraduate Initial Teacher Education

Dates: September 2013 - April 2018

Responsibilities:

Line management of colleagues predominantly teaching on the secondary UG programmes
Curriculum development
Module leader and teaching - physics education modules
Module leader and teaching - general education and pedagogy modules
Academic tutor
Ofsted - secondary phase (Good - November 2017)
External Examiner, Leeds University PGCE
External Validator, various ITE provision

Name: Sheffield Hallam University

Position: Co-Director - Science Learning Centre, Yorkshire and the Humber:

Dates: September 2008 - August 2018

Responsibilities:

Leading and managing CPD programme for the regional Science Learning Centre (2013-2015)
Subject Knowledge Enhancement courses (pre- and post ITE)
Science Additional Specialism Programme (20102012)
Physics Education CPD
Middle Leadership CPD
Institute of Physics Girls into Physics programme

General Areas of Expertise to Support a Trust Board

Educational Leadership in a range of settings
STEM Education
Initial Teacher Education

Education Improvement Specific Experience and Skills

Delivery of science education CPD
ITE Ofsted inspection

Specific Leadership and Skills Experience

Middle and Senior Leadership in secondary schools
NPQH

HR and Data Handling Specific Experience and Skills

None specific other than would be typical with line management responsibilities - recruitment activity including drawing up job specifications, short-listing and interviewing.

Data handling including interrogation of data for Quality Assurance, meeting KPIs and Ofsted inspection. I am confident in the interrogation and use of data

Finance Specific Experience and Skills

None specific

Brief comments on why your previous experience is relevant

I have a wide range of experience, working with colleagues from a variety of schools and educational settings including ITT trainees and CPD.

I have an MProf. Research in Education, with a particular interest in gender and physics pedagogy.

I have a particular expertise and interest in the area of STEM education.

I have taken on leadership responsibilities in all the settings I have worked from departmental leadership to my cross- department role in Initial teacher Education at Sheffield Hallam.

I completed my NPQH before moving to work in teacher education.

My role as Co-Director of the Science Learning Partnership (Yorkshire and the Humber and the North East) required me to establish a range of school-led partnerships

I believe these wide range of experiences have given me a holistic view of education and of working with others across a range of educational settings.

Zena Wardle

HR Lead for the Trust

Areas of Expertise/ Specialisms

Experienced Head of HR and L&D.
Business Strategy
Recruitment & Selection
Policy & Procedure
Employment Law
Diversity and Inclusion
Budgeting

Details of last three roles

Name: Manthorpe Building Products (Genuit Group)

Position: Head of HR

Dates: 2021

Responsibilities:

Manage the HR & L&D Function. Sit on the Company Exec Board. Input to Business Strategy. Guide Company directors. Set Policies in line with legislation.

Name: Polypipe

Position: Head of HR & L&D

Dates: 2019 - 2021

Responsibilities:

Manage the HR & L&D Function. Sit on the Company Exec Board. Input to Business Strategy. Guide Company directors. Set Policies in line with legislation .

Name: Polypipe

Position: HR Manager

Dates: 2018 - 2019

Responsibilities:

Manage the HR & L&D Function. Sit on the Company Exec Board. Input to Business Strategy. Guide Company directors. Set Policies in line with legislation.

Professional Body Membership(s)

CIPD level 5

General Areas of Expertise to Support a Trust Board

Policies and Procedures
Employment Law
Recruitment
People Skills
Business Strategy

Education Improvement Specific Experience and Skills

Derby College Skills Board

Specific Leadership and Skills Experience

Head of a large manufacturing business with 1200 employees

HR and Data Handling Specific Experience and Skills

Excellent extensive HR experience in line with current employment law.

Recruitment and talent planning.

Finance Specific Experience and Skills

Manage payroll budget for hourly and monthly paid staff

Brief comments on why your previous experience is relevant

Whilst I do not have too much experience in education I am an experienced and balanced HR Head with budgeting experience in a PLC company. I also have excellent people skills and would love to contribute to such an exciting Doncaster Project.

Robert (Bob) Young

Areas of Expertise/ Specialisms

Secondary education 1975 to date with particular reference to SEND; management and secondary school governance.

Details of last three roles

Name: Brighter Futures Learning Partnership Trust

Position: Chair of Members' Group

Dates: 2019 to present

Name: Hungerhill Academy Trust

Position: Chair

Dates: 2017 to 2018

Responsibilities:

Chair of governing body

Name: Hungerhill Academy Trust

Position: Member

Dates: 2012 to 2019

Responsibilities:

See role of member of academy trust

General Areas of Expertise to Support a Trust Board

Knowledge and experience of educational change and developments 1975 - present (1975 to 2010 as a teacher and manager in secondary schools; 2008 to 2019 as a governor: member of academy Trust and Chair). Member of MAT, 2019 to present.

Specific Leadership and Skills Experience

At Hungerhill School over a period of 25 years, I developed from scratch and led the provision for pupils with SEND. I managed a team of up to 15 colleagues and worked with outside agencies, including officers of the Local Authority. I was a member of the LA working party which reviewed the Authority’s overall SEND provision and I was chair of the secondary SENCOs group.

HR and Data Handling Specific Experience and Skills

Experience gained in the context of all my previous roles.

Finance Specific Experience and Skills

As a member of Hungerhill Academy Trust Finance Committee

Brief comments on why your previous experience is relevant

I have been involved with education in Doncaster since 1975 as teacher, governor and member of a trust. Therefore I have experienced all the major changes and developments in education since that period. Until my retirement in 2010 I ran a successful department which was always judged outstanding by OFSTED and significantly contributed to the development of the school’s excellent provision and reputation. As Governor and Trust Member I played a significant role in decisions which guided Hungerhill’s transition from a LA school to Academy and subsequently the formation of the current Brighter Futures Learning Partnership Trust.

I believe the length of my service and commitment to public education in Doncaster gives me the experience to offer a valuable perspective to the continuing development and administration of the current Brighter Futures Learning Partnership Trust.

Dr Stephen Newman

Areas of Expertise/ Specialisms

Teacher Education and Professional Development

Details of last three roles

Name: Carnegie School of Education, Leeds Beckett University

Position: Associate Senior Lecturer in Education and Professional Development

Dates: 1 August 2024 – present (part-time role)

Responsibilities:

EdD/PhD: Director of Studies/Supervisor
Examiner for PhDs and EdDs.
Supervisor on MA Education course.
Deputy Editor of the Journal of Education for Teaching (2020 - present)
Co-editor of Journal of Education for Teaching Special Issue: Teacher Education in the COVID-19 Pandemic: a global snapshot, Vol.46, No.4, 2020.
Editor of Journal of Education for Teaching, Vol.48, No.1, February 2022.
Editor of Journal of Education for Teaching, Vol.49, No.5, December 2023
Editor of Journal of Education for Teaching, Vol.50, No.4, September 2024
Academic referee for Asia Pacific Education Review, Cogent, British Journal of Educational Studies, Educational Philosophy and Theory, Educational Research, International Journal of Leadership in Education, Journal of Early Childhood Research, Journal for the Theory of Social Behaviour, Journal of Education for Teaching, Journal of Intelligence, Language and Education, SAGE Open, Studies in Philosophy and Education, Sustainability, Zeitschrift für Bildungsforschung.

Name: Carnegie School of Education, Leeds Beckett University

Position: Senior Lecturer in Education and Professional Developmen

Dates: September 2010 - July 2024

Responsibilities:

Academic Lead for Research Degree Applications, Confirmation of Registrations and Progressions, Carnegie School of Education
EdD/PhD and MRes: Director of Studies/Supervisor
Internal examiner for PhDs and EdDs.
External examiner for PhDs and EdDs
Course Leader: PGCE Educate Teacher Training (SCITT) (2014 - 2024)
Independent Chair for PhD and EdD viva voce examinations.
Designing and introducing new MA courses.
Panel member for validation of new courses.
Course Leader: MSc in Leadership and Management (2011-2016)
PGC/PGD/MA Leadership and Management in Education (Course Leader: 2013-2015)
Course tutor and module leader (Leadership and Management): MA Education
Course Leader: PGCE Stockton-on-Tees (SCITT) (2014 – 2019)
Mitigation Officer, Carnegie School of Education (2015-2022).
Link Tutor on PGCE (Secondary) courses.
Dissertation supervision for level 6 students.
Dissertation supervision for Master’s students
Chair/Member of Assessment Integrity Panels

Name: Bradford College

Position: Senior Lecturer

Dates: September 2004 - August 2010

Responsibilities:

Course Leader 2006-2010 for the suite of courses including MA Leadership and Management in Education; MA Teaching; MA Practitioner Research; MA Inclusive Education; MA Early Years Practice.
MEd (Course Leader 2006-2010)
PGCSE (Primary) [M Level]
BA (Hons) Education Studies with QTS

Professional Body Membership(s)

Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society (FRGS)
Chartered Geographer of the Royal Geographical Society (GGeog)
Fellow of the Royal Meteorological Society (FRMetS)
Fellow of the College of Preceptors (FCollP)
Fellow of the Chartered College of Teaching (FCCT)
Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy (SFHEA)
Fellow of the Royal Society for the Encouragement of Arts, Commerce and Manufactures (FRSA)
Member, Geographical Association
Member, British Wittgenstein Society
Member, British Educational Research Association

General Areas of Expertise to Support a Trust Board

Experience of working with colleagues in a wide range of educational contexts.
Formerly a Governor, Vice-Chair, and Chair of Governors, and Vice-Chair of Board of Trustees.

Education Improvement Specific Experience and Skills

Leading a department in school.
Working with a range of colleagues and students on courses in higher education (e.g. LA advisors, headteachers, senior leaders).
Governor experience on Teaching, Learning and Curriculum Committee.
Chair of Governors’ Standards and Achievement Committee.
Pupil Premium Link Governor.

Specific Leadership Skills Experience

Departmental leadership in secondary education.
Whole-school leadership of examinations.
Leadership of courses and course teams in higher education, including courses in leadership and management in education.

Finance Specific Experience and Skills

No specific expertise.
Member of Governor Finance and Resources Committee.
Member of Governor Staff Pay committee.

Brief comments on why your previous experience is relevant

In general, I have a wide range of experience, working with colleagues from a variety of schools and educational settings, involving ITT trainees, experienced members of staff undertaking professional development (including master’s and doctoral degrees), and colleagues at various universities.
I have a MEd degree in education, curriculum and philosophy, and a PhD in philosophy, teacher education, and professional development.
I am research-active, and have a range of publications including a book, chapters in books, and articles concerning education and education-related issues.
I have experience in various positions as a school governor and trustee.
I believe these wide range of experiences have given me a holistic view of education and of working with others across a range of educational settings and with a range of responsibilities.

John Stapleton

Areas of Expertise/ Specialisms

Health and safety

Details of last three roles

Name: Rotherham 2010 Ltd

Position: Health and Safety Manager

Dates: 2007-2011

Responsibilities:

Managing all aspects of health and safety for RMBC’s social housing ALMO.

Name: Rotherham MBC

Position: Principal H&S Officer

Dates: 1991-2007

Responsibilities:

Leading a team of H&S officers to advise and support all RMBC services.

Name: Doncaster MBC

Position: Health & Safety Officer

Dates: 1981-1991

Responsibilities:

Providing advice, support, education safety policy development to all Doncaster schools and colleges.

Professional Body Membership(s)

Former chartered member IOSH

General Areas of Expertise to Support a Trust Board

Thirty years as a school governor has given me experience and perspective of what is necessary to lead, manage and maintain a successful school enabling all pupils to achieve the best they can.

Specific Leadership and Skills Experience

Leading a small team of professional H&S officers

HR and Data Handling Specific Experience and Skills

Worked in close conjunction with RMBC HR to develop occupational pre-employment questionnaires and work-related stress assessments. Familiar with data collection and analysis for safety and health improvement.

Finance Specific Experience and Skills

Managing the health and safety team budget. Developing and managing budgets for specific issues such as occupational health and asbestos management.

Brief comments on why your previous experience is relevant

Key person on the school’s governing body with responsibility for Health and Safety, SEND and self-evaluation governor for the Foundation Stage of the school.

I believe I have played a significant role in each stage of Dunsville primary school’s development, particularly transition to academy status, through critical challenge and appointment of staff best able to meet that challenge.

Jodi Savage

Areas of Expertise/ Specialisms

Experienced Contract Manager with 17 years’ experience in the rail sector. Extensive experience in bid preparation including building and analysing financial models, reviewing and negotiating contractual terms, writing the bid narrative and ensuring that bid governance is followed diligently.

Local parkrun event director.

Details of last three roles

Name: Eversholt UK Rails Group

Position: Account Manager

Dates: April 2020 - Present

Responsibilities:

Management of the relationship and leases with train operating companies. Leading on business cases. Day to day management on contract arising matters.

Name: Wabtec Rail Ltd

Position: Contract Manager

Dates: September 2013 to April 2020

Responsibilities:

Managing the bids for the vehicles division of the business which accounts for c60% of the annual turnover. Developing relationships with the key stakeholders. Inputting potential sales figures into the budget which determines manpower requirements, profitability, overhead rates etc.

Name: ESG

Position: Account Manager

Dates: July 2012 - September 2013

Responsibilities:

Developing business with new and existing customers. Overseeing the bid process and representing the Business Development department at Senior Management level.

Professional Body Membership(s)

BSc (Hons) Business and Management (accredited by the CMI)

General areas of expertise to support a trust board

Finance, business and governance

Part of the UTC PSG since pre-bid stage

Specific Leadership and Skills Experience

Senior Management responsibilities for 10+ years

Finance specific experience and skills

Preparation of cost models for tenders including risk and profitability analysis.

Input into budget including resource requirements, sales, profitability and overhead provision.

Brief comments on why your previous experience is relevant

I have been involved with the UTC from pre-bid stage and I have a genuine interest in the success of the UTC.

My experience in tender preparation means I have good financial and business acumen. Key to the preparation of bids is ensuring governance is robustly applied. Managing bids includes managing different stakeholders and their different needs. My role on the board of Women in Rail has given me experience of operating in a board environment and dealing with very senior people.