Your governors

Mrs Clare Cope (Headteacher)

Responsibilities: Director, Curriculum & Audit, Finance & Staffing,

Type: Headteacher Governor

Background: When I was a child and people asked me what I wanted to do when I grew up I always said I wanted to be a teacher. Although I had a range of part time jobs whilst studying, nothing changed that overriding ambition. I qualified as a teacher from Liverpool University in 1993 and I’ve been teaching ever since then. I spent eight years as the Deputy Head at St. Mary’s in Littleborough and then became Headteacher at Christ Church Junior School in Sowerby Bridge. In September 2014 I became the Head teacher here at Burnley Road Academy and I am really enjoying the role. It’s a very friendly and welcoming school to work in and the children are brilliant!

Mrs Celia Ainley (Board of Directors, Chair of the board)

Responsibilities: Director, Curriculum, SEND and CLA

Type: Parent Governor

Date of appointment: 22/11/2019

End of term: 21/11/23

Background:  

Mr. Steve Woodhead

Responsibilities: Vice Chair

Type: LA governor

Date of Appointment:

End of Term: 

Background: I am in my third year as a governor at Burnley Road Academy where I am chair of the Finance committee and take an active role in all elements of governance within the school, including attending pertinent training courses. I have previously served on 4 other governing bodies and chaired several high-level boards for organisations within the local authority. My reasons for wanting to become a governor were largely that as I am now semi-retired, I have time to support school, I wanted to add more to my local community and possibly most importantly I am passionate about education. My recent professional background is one of working as a consultant, specialising in children’s services. Prior to this role I was employed for many years as a senior officer within the local authority, leading early help and edge of care services. I therefore feel that I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, including a detailed understanding and working knowledge of safeguarding to the academy council.

Mrs Amanda Leggett

Responsibilities: Director, Curriculum & Audit, Year 1

Type: Community Governor

Date of appointment: 22/09/2015

End of term: 23/09/23

Background: I grew up in the town of Stockport. I started my education at the local nursery attached to the school just like Burnley Road Academy, at my secondary school I held the post of Head Girl. I left school and went to work in a travel agency, attending college one day a week and went on to complete a Degree in Law. My job has enabled me to travel to many destinations worldwide. I reside in the local area and attend Ward Forum meetings held every few months. My one piece of advice is, IF YOUR FACE WANTS TO SMILE LET IT - IF IT DOESN’T MAKE IT!!

Mrs Rebecca Holmes 

Responsibilities: Director, Reception class teacher and Foundation Stage Manager.

Type: Staff Governor

Date of appointment: 22/09/15

End of term: 23/09/23

Background: Having been a teacher for over 9 years, I love the challenge of helping all our children to reach their full potential. I've been told I have a lovely smile- but it is the children who make that happen and when they come in with a smile, it makes it all worth while. As the Foundation Stage manager I work with my team to keep developing our Early Years areas: I especially love our outdoor facilities and play area (the best in Calderdale in our opinion!) I take my role on the Governing Body as one which helps the whole school and not just Foundation Stage.

Mrs Veronica Walker 

Responsibilities: Director, Teacher for Years 3 and 4

Type: Staff Governor

Date of appointment: May 2021

End of Term: May 2025

Mrs Sally Finnegan (Clerk of Govenors)

Responsibilities: Ensuring smooth running of board

Date of appointment: 01/06/98

Mrs Penny Boyd

Co-opted governor

Date of appointment: 20/2/24

Dr. Mannion

Parent governor

Date of appointment: 4/12/23

Liz Hinchliffe

Temporary Clerk to governors

From 4/12/24