Our Local Committee
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Sharon Wilkinson (Chair of the Governing Body) I have been a Governor at Hill Top Primary Academy for 4 years now and became Chair in April 2024. I am the Vicar of the local church St Mary’s and it is lovely to be involved with the Staff and Children at this school. I am the Local Governor responsible for Safeguarding.
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Karen Renshaw - Co-opted Governor As a Governor at Hill Top Primary Academy, I use the skills I acquired as a Nursery Nurse, allowing me to deliver the best foundations for children’s education. I am up to date with all safeguarding policies and undertake regular training as a Local Governor, which is enhanced by my role on Leeds City Council’s Children’s Services Scrutiny Board. The children’s progress and education are paramount when decisions are made, and this school is inclusive, giving opportunities to all. |
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Jennifer Cowey - Parent Governor I have a background in teaching and have a degree in child psychology. I also have additional qualifications in counselling and children's mental health, including overcoming barriers in education. I currently work as an early years gymnastics coach and volunteer with Yorkshire Ambulance Service as a community first responder during evenings and weekends. I currently have three children who attend HTPA I have enjoyed seeing first hand the dedication and hard work that all the staff at Hill Top have put in to make the school a wonderful and inclusive educational setting.
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Varinder Phull - Parent Governor As a Parent Governor and research neuroscientist passionate about teaching pedagogy, I aim to contribute my expertise to ensure our school fosters inclusive learning environments and evidence-based practices. I am committed to prioritising student well-being and fostering an environment where every child has the opportunity to thrive and excel.
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Neal Pinder Packard - Co-opted Governor
I have been in education since starting teaching in September 1997 as a secondary mathematics teacher. I was Head of Mathematics at my current school for six years before moving onto the Senior Leadership Team. During my time on the SLT, I have had responsibilities for e-learning, achievement from Years 7-13, and many school systems (data, census, timetabling, curriculum, trips, cover, exams). I am currently Vice Principal in the Quality of Education team responsible for outcomes at The Mirfield Free Grammar.
I am married with two children, both of whom are currently at Hill Top Primary Academy. Locally, I am involved with St Mary’s Church, Woodkirk and am team manager for the U11s at East Ardsley United Cricket Club.
It is an enormous privilege to be able to contribute to the education of children in the area where I live.
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Dan Frank - Co-opted Governor My son is a pupil at Hill Top and I’ve worked with the school and others within Leodis Academies Trust for many years. For the majority of my career I have worked at an international law firm in Leeds, in a number of roles, the current one being within IT. I also lead on Corporate Social Responsibility for the Leeds office. Away from the day job I set up and run WF3 Kindness, the local community charity which supports families across Tingley, Ardsley, Thorpe and the surrounding area. I’m also a Trustee and Secretary for Morley & District Lions Club (CIO) and a member of the Supporters Board at Leeds Rhinos. I hope to bring my knowledge and experience of supporting and working with local families to my role as Local Governor at Hill Top Primary and support the school in its aims and objectives to deliver the best outcomes and opportunities for our young people.
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Joanne Lancaster - Principal Joanne joined Hill Top in September 2014 as an Assistant Headteacher moving up to Deputy then Principal in September 2021. She began her teaching career in Durham after receiving a B’Ed degree with Honours at the University of Northumbria in Newcastle. Joanne has also achieved the National Award for SEND in 2020 and achieved the NPQH qualification in 2023. Joanne has a keen interest in supporting children with SEND and ensuring they receive the best outcomes whilst in school. Throughout her career she has taught in a range of primary schools and has loved every second of it. Seeing children learn and develop has led her to develop a strong belief that children learn best when they are having fun and are engaged in practical, real-life activities. She also believes that strong relationships with parents and the wider community are vital in ensuring that children are supported as they move through their school life. Teaching is her passion and to see children explore and thrive as they learn new knowledge and skills is what drives the continuous improvement of Hill Top.
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Tracy Nicholls - Staff Governor I Have been part of the Hill Top family for over 20 years as a parent (all 4 children attended HTPA), volunteer and employee. For the past 12 years, I have worked as a Teaching Assistant in every class across KS1 and KS2 building strong relationships with both children and colleagues. This has given me a deep understanding and knowledge of the Hill Top ethos. I am passionate about seeing each child as an individual and preparing them for the next steps in their journey by creating a positive, supportive yet challenging learning environment.
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Register of Business Interests 2024-25 and Attendance 2023-24