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Governance
Oxclose Primary Academy is overseen by a Local Governing Committee responsible for ensuring the highest standards of teaching and well-being.
The Local Governing Committee is a ‘critical friend’ to the Academy as well as a champion of pupils, teachers and the wider community.
As the Academy is part of the Laidlaw Schools Trust, there is a board of trustees who are responsible for the work of the Trust, including the running of the academies. Further information is available on the Governance section of the Trust’s website. To support the effective operation of the Trust and the academies, the Trust Board has established Local Governing Committees for each Academy in the Trust.
Diversity is important to our governing committees and we strive to be reflective of the communities that we serve. We welcome applications for school governors from all areas of our school community. If you are interested in becoming a school governor or finding out more, please contact the Clerk to Governors.
The Governance Administrator can be contacted at governance@laidlawschoolstrust.co.uk, Laidlaw Schools Trust, Suite 2, 3rd Floor, St Nicholas Building, St Nicholas’ Street, Newcastle upon Tyne, NE1 1RF or 0191 662 2416.
Details of the Governors at Oxclose Primary Academy can be found below:
Tony Cunningham - Chair
Tony is currently Chair of the Local Governing Committee, a role he has held for a number of years and works closely with other governors and the school leadership in shaping the strategic direction of the Academy. His particular curriculum interests are Literacy and Inclusion and he also supports Leadership Development across the school.
He brings extensive experience in championing opportunities for all pupils, in safeguarding pupils in school and in challenging school leadership to achieve ambitious high standards in pupil outcomes.
Tony is the former Executive Headteacher of a secondary and primary school in Washington and the former CEO of a Multi-Academy Trust in the same area. Tony also served as Chair of the Management Board of the Local Authority Pupil Referral Unit for permanently excluded pupils in Sunderland.
Interest and date interest commenced
Beacon of Light School (Governor - 13/7/2023)
Sara Bainbridge - Co Opted Governor
Sara Bainbridge is an experienced Headteacher with more than 29 years of experience in education. For the past decade, she has led a one-form entry primary school in the North East and has developed a particular expertise and passion for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND).
Dedicated to helping every child achieve their full potential, Sara is committed to ensuring that all pupils have access to exceptional opportunities, both academically and personally. She believes in creating inclusive, ambitious and nurturing school environments where every child can thrive and succeed.
As a Governor at Oxclose Primary Academy, Sara brings extensive leadership, teaching and SEND experience to the governing body. She is passionate about supporting the academy's continued development and success, using her knowledge and expertise to help ensure the best possible outcomes for all pupils.
Interest and date interest commenced
Barmston Village Primary School (Employee / Headteacher - January 2021)
Stacey Murley - Parent Governor
Stacey has worked within the NHS for over 20 years, spending most of her career as a Clinical Specialist in Medical Ultrasound. Her role has involved working closely with people of all ages, backgrounds, and cultures, providing expert clinical knowledge alongside reassurance, care, and support.
In recent years, Stacey has developed a specialist interest in paediatric ultrasound and is a member of the newly established regional Paediatric Specialist Imaging Interest Group. Her work reflects a strong commitment to supporting the health and wellbeing of children and young people.
Alongside her professional career, Stacey volunteers weekly at Oxclose Primary Academy, where she supports children with reading. She also regularly participates in school trips and extracurricular activities, demonstrating her dedication to the school community.
Stacey is passionate about helping children reach their full potential from an early age and is committed to supporting opportunities that enable every child to thrive.
Interest and date interest commenced
Nil
Dawn Sweeney - Co Opted Governor
Interest and date interest commenced
Oxclose Primary Academy (Close family relationship - 7/11/2023)
Ryan Wood - Co Opted Governor
Interest and date interest commenced
Oxclose Community Academy (Employee - 01/09/2012)
Hayley Woodhouse - Parent Governor
With over 15 years of experience in the housing sector, Hayley has dedicated much of her career to supporting individuals and families within the community. More recently, she has worked as an Employment Advisor, helping tenants access employment and training opportunities.
A qualified Teaching Assistant, Hayley holds a range of qualifications, including studies in autism awareness and children's mental health, alongside a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology. Her professional background provides valuable insight into supporting children's development and wellbeing.
As a Parent Governor at Oxclose Primary Academy, Hayley brings both professional expertise and personal experience to the role. Having had two children attend the academy before progressing to secondary education, she is passionate about supporting the school community and helping to ensure the best possible outcomes for all pupils.
Interest and date interest commenced
Nil
