Governing Body
Katie Everson
Head of TRUST Education DSL
Kate is Head of School and specialises in children’s social care, safeguarding, and complex family assessments. She has significant expertise in supporting children with adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) and provides consultancy on safeguarding and SEND.
Melissa Wainman
Director of TRUST Education DSL
Mel is a former Head of a SEMH school and an experienced curriculum leader and Designated Safeguarding Lead. She contributes expertise in HR, education leadership, safeguarding, and school premises management.
Matthew Derbyshire
Head of TRUST Sport
Matthew is a former professional footballer with over 20 years of experience in the sport. Now a UEFA A Licence coach and Head of Academy Football at a private school, he brings skills in leadership, mentoring, and promoting mental health and wellbeing through sport.
Matthew Embly
Chair
Matthew is Chair of the Board, bringing extensive experience in safeguarding and technology systems. A qualified social worker, he is Community Outreach Service Manager for Safenet Domestic Abuse Service and leads on domestic abuse, advocacy, and special educational needs.
Leanne Barker
Deputy Chair – Strategic Decisions, SEND, Teaching and Learning
Leanne is Deputy Chair with a strong background in teaching and community links. She has taught across colleges in Blackburn and East Lancashire, specialising in hair, beauty, and dance. Leanne brings expertise in SEND, ADHD, and supporting young people with challenging behaviour.
Roger Love
SEND and Education Governor
Roger has a wealth of experience in education, having worked as a teacher, Deputy Head, and Senior Lecturer specialising in SEND. His career also includes training within the Army, and he continues to champion inclusive learning and training opportunities.
Brenda Everson
SEND and Education Governor
Brenda is a retired special needs teacher with specialist knowledge in dyslexia, non-verbal communication, and speech and language development. She has also worked closely with physiotherapists to support children with complex neuro injuries.
Peter Everson
Health and Safety, Risk Assessment
Peter has a background in facilities management and oversees health and safety within the Board. His expertise includes compliance, service-level agreements, risk management, and ensuring safe school premises.
Mel Taylor
Community Links, Fundraiser
Mel is Director of Ark Education Barn and has a background as a veterinary nurse and safeguarding lead. She brings experience in community engagement, mental health, and supporting children’s wellbeing.
Katrina Heyworth
HR, Finances Performance, Law
Katrina works in local authority housing and is Head of Sales and Marketing. She brings strong skills in project management, compliance, and digital transformation, with a focus on data analysis, policy, and leadership.
Julie Foster
Pupil Voice Governor
Julie is a Registered Nurse in Learning Disabilities (RNLD) and has worked in assurance and transformation. She specialises in mental health, pupil voice, and the implementation of the Mental Capacity Act, ensuring children and families are heard and supported.