Governors and Trustees

Nick White- Chair

After retiring from Headship, I have returned to my northern roots having spent 34 years teaching along the south coast. Most of that time was spent in primary schools and my final post was as director of a multi academy trust. As well as keeping up with trends in education, I also enjoy walking and cycling in the local countryside. Being the Chair of the Local Academy Council is a real privilege, working alongside parents, staff and governors who only want the best for our school.

John Swift- Vice Chair

I have lived in the village for many years and feel fortunate to be part of such a warm and supportive community. With two children currently attending Barwick CE Primary, I have seen firsthand the dedication of the staff and the positive impact the school has on local families. Wanting to contribute to this environment was the driving force behind my decision to become a governor. I am committed to helping the school continue to thrive and to ensuring it remains a place where every child can flourish academically, socially, and emotionally.

Caroline Gunning

I enjoy being a reading volunteer and attend school each week. I live in the local area with my husband, we share four grown up children and our precious grandchildren. My interests include reading, tennis and travel. During the last ten years I have worked in primary education following a long career in global insurance-broking account management. I aim to use my skills, experience and enthusiasm to help our school grow and develop, whilst looking out for the best interests of our children, staff, fellow governors and parents.

Rev Jonathan Brennan

I am the Vicar of All Saints’, Barwick in Elmet and therefore a delighted to be a foundation governor of the school. I came into the ministry later in life after a 30-year career in the legal profession. I care passionately about education that nurtures the whole child, and I have a strong appreciation of the vital partnership between school, the church and home. I believe schools flourish when they combine high standards with kindness, encouragement and a clear sense of purpose. It is a joy to support a school that is shaping the next generation with care, ambition and hope.

Ryan McDonough

I live locally with my wife and our children, one of whom currently attends Barwick CE Primary. Becoming a Parent Governor was a natural step for me as I wanted to play a more active role in supporting the school community. In my professional life I work in AI software engineering, which allows me to bring a different perspective to the governing body, particularly when considering how systems, data and processes can support teaching and learning. I am committed to working with fellow governors and staff to help ensure the school continues to provide a positive and supportive environment in which every child can thrive.

Hannah Fox

Professionally, I have been a teacher for over 10 years. I have worked in a range of schools with different needs including schools with a high level of SEN and EAL. All these experiences have given me valuable experience to support me today. I have been a teacher at Barwick in Elmet Primary School for over 6 years. I have worked across KS2 during my time at Barwick and have been fortunate enough to have the opportunity to get to know the families across school. Outside of work I am a mother who enjoys spending weekends outdoors with family and friends. By being part of the governing body, I hope I can provide a voice for the staff at Barwick and to allow the governs to gain the staff perspective during discussions and decisions. 

Sally Briston

First and foremost I am a mum to a child in year 5 and to a daughter who has just completed year 6 in the school. It is important to me to be part of the local community and support and work with the school to be part of what makes it great. I am committed to seeing the whole school a happy and flourishing environment.

I am a dedicated advanced cancer nurse with daily experience in supporting people, working towards the best outcomes. I see the value in positive communication and kindness, with people striving for the same shared goals. I am able to draw on this to support my role as a governor as well as having a good understanding of safeguarding. Outside of work, i enjoy swimming, walking and cricket and i love being out in the sunshine!