Our Governors
GOVERNOR PROFILES
John Leigh – Member Appointment
Foundation Governor
Chair of Governors
- I have served as a Governor for over 19 years
- I am a retired Solicitor
- Four of my children have attended the school
- I have a keen interest in primary and secondary education (I am a Governor at St Wilfrid’s school having held the post of Chairman of Governors for seven years)
Link Governor for Oracy and History
Aisha Hussain – Member Appointment Vice Chair of Governors
Wensley Fold is close to my heart as it was my primary school
My 4 children all attended Wensley Fold
I am a qualified lawyer specialising in Family law, Wills and Probate work. I also sit as a Magistrate on the Criminal Bench
I have qualified as a teacher with experience in secondary education
I am deeply passionate about education and child development run a supplementary evening school
My role as governor is very rewarding as I am enthusiastic about making a difference to the community
Link Governor for RE and Charity
Ehsan Raja
- I have been a governor for 10 years
- My 3 children all attended Wensley Fold
- I will help the school to the best of my ability
- I have a keen interest in education
- I am an approachable person
Link Governor for Computing and Local Authority
Donna Simpson – Headteacher
- I began working at Wensley Fold in January 2017. Prior to this I taught for many years across Blackburn with Darwen as Assistant Head, Deputy Head & Advisory Teacher
- I am the school’s designated Safeguarding Lead
- I enjoy working with a diverse and talented group of governors to ensure we attain the absolute best outcomes and experiences for our children
- Out of school I enjoy travelling and spending time with my family and out pets
Amanda Whittingham – Assistant Headteacher
- I am the teacher representative and have been for over 16 years
- I particularly enjoy the role as it enables me to be involved in the governors’ decision making processes as well as the day to day running of the school
- It is my aim to represent the balanced views of the teachers in all areas of governors’ decision making
- My qualities are a love of children, teaching and a sense of humour!
Julie McFeeley
- I have lived locally for nearly thirty years
- Both of my children attended Wensley Fold Primary School, at which time I was a Parent Governor.
- Reading for a degree as a mature student fostered a strong belief that access to quality education and personal development is a fundamental right
- Being a governor at Wensley Fold allows me to contribute to the development of that belief in others within my local community
I am deeply proud of Wensley Fold Primary Academy and am honoured to be considered part of it.
Link Governor for Early Years, SEND,and Geography
Maggie Beck
I am a Primary School Teacher, having taught for over 35 years, I retired in 2018, having been Headteacher at Darwen St James’ CE Primary Academy, for nine very enjoyable years.
I have had the privilege of serving as a Foundation Governor at St Luke and St Philip’s CE Primary Academy since 2019, and I clerk Governor Meetings for the Local Authority, I am looking forward to joining the Governors at Wensley Fold in September 2020.
I care deeply about education for all, giving everyone opportunities to learn and to enjoy their learning.
I love being creative, spending time knitting and crafting. I enjoy theatre visits, music and sports, especially supporting my football team.
Link Governor for English, Safeguarding, Looked After Children & Attendance
Helen Lavery
I have been SENDCo at Wensley Fold for the past year.
I moved to Lancashire from Essex where I have previously been a SENDCo, Assistant Headteacher, Key Stage Leader and Class Teacher.
I love being a teacher and wanted to be a teacher from the age of 9.
I have a daughter and a husband who I love going on long walks with.
I enjoy decorating, house refurbishment projects and watching films.
I am dedicated, highly motivated and committed to children achieving their very best.
Link Governor for Music
Brendan Smith
I have worked at Wensley Fold for 3 years.
I have worked in a number of schools across Lancashire since entering the education sector.
Previously, I conducted postgraduate research in Synthetic Organic Chemistry and so have a keen interest in Science.
I organise the school’s chess club
My priority is ensuring the needs of all parties, in particular pupils, are considered at every step.
Link Governor for PE
Asemah Ashiq
I have 5 children, with 2 currently in the school and 2 who had previously attended.
For over 15 years I worked as a teaching & bilingual assistant at Daisyfield Primary School.
I have lived in the local area for almost 40 years.
I am passionate about the quality of children’s’ education
I studied Business Studies Level 2
Link Governor for Art & Life Education
Shabana Latif
I am passionate about education and started out as a teacher 12 years ago teaching maths at secondary level.
I am currently an Assistant Director for Mathematics and KS3 lead.
I have two beautiful children who attend Wensley Fold Academy.
I am committed to ensuring best outcomes for all students and making a difference at every opportunity possible.
Link Governor for Maths & Equality
David Kemp
I am a business and performance coach by profession
I sincerely believe that everyone – especially young people – should be given the opportunity and the support to fulfil their potential.
I have delivered self-development programmes to young people in partnership with NW universities
I believe that by being inclusive and working together local communities will make a positive impact
I am churchwarden of St Silas and a trustee of the local alms houses association
Link Governor for Health & Safety & Worship
Sima Kothiwala
I have been a qualified dentist since 2004
I work with people from various cultures, backgrounds and ages on a daily basis
I am passionate about children’s health, wellbeing and advancement of their educational needs
Link Governor for Science & Forest Schools/Eco Schools