I joined Selby Locality Board because I am deeply passionate about the well-being and development of young children in our community. I firmly believe that early childhood isa critical phase that lays the foundation for a child’s future success and happiness

I have worked for North Yorkshire for virtually all my career, currently I am the Headteacher at Athelstan Community Primary School in Sherburn in Elmet where I have been head for twenty-one years, Athelstan is a large two from entry primary taking children from two years old. Previously I was head for six years in a small village primary school in North Yorkshire. I also taught in Sherburn, prior to headship, so I now find I am teaching the children of children, but it also means that I know this community and area very well.

Ian has over 30 years experience in primary education including 25 in senior leadership, as well as around 15 years in secondary governance. He is CEO of the STAR Multi-Academy Trust in Selby, Sherburn and Tadcaster and also serving chair of the NYC Schools Forum.

I am passionate about working with schools and education partners to raise the profile and opportunities available in Further Education.
With over 15 years’ experience in the FE sector, I have led a number of departments and projects including Alternative Curriculum and Sub-Contracted Partnerships and I continue to oversee the Wakefield Children’s University, an initiative aimed at raising the aspirations of children (5-14) through participation in out of school learning. I am also a governor at two schools.

Headteacher, Barlby Primary
I qualified as a primary school teacher in 1994 and have worked across the primary sector in Liverpool, Cumbria, York and North Yorkshire. I have had the privilege of leading Barlby Community Primary School as Headteacher for over 13 years. I am passionate about making a difference for all the pupils in our school and the Selby community. I am an advocate for inclusive education, providing an environment for children to thrive and grow into citizens in a society we can all be proud of.

I am privileged to be the Executive Principal of The Forest School in Knaresbrough and the Principal designate for the Selby SEND school (currently in the design and planning stages). I believe in socially inclusive learning environments that allow the whole child to develop. My background has been varied: I have worked for 16 years in a secondary mainstream school, followed by 7 years as a Principal within a very large multi-site SEMH school and now a Generic Special school. I am excited to support the Locality Board as I believe we are much stronger working in strong networks.

I am looking forward to sharing in all the discussions relating to the board especially utilising my skills developed as a teacher and mother. Championing all things Early Years will be my focus!