John O’Leary – Headteacher

My name is John O'Leary and I am the Acting Headteacher at Asterdale Primary School (Sept 24)

I am excited to work alongside the Senior Leadership Team and Governing Body to further improve Asterdale through fostering our shared 'Together we can' vision and supporting all stakeholders to uphold excellence in all that we do.

I have experience in curriculum development, assessment analysis and an interest in using recent research to further improve teaching and learning strategies including metacognition in the classroom so that all learners achieve their absolute best.

My teaching passions including reading for pleasure, being active and outdoor learning to enrich experiences wherever possible.

I have taught across all year groups and believe that all children can achieve personal and academic success in a welcoming and supportive environment. Asterdale's ethos and vision for education matches my own beliefs that all learners can strive for success.

I look forward to working in partnership to bring further successes to Asterdale in the future.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Simon Higginbotham – Co-opted Governor

My name is Simon Higginbotham and I have been a Co-opted Governor for the last two years.  I have four boys, all of which have been pupils at Asterdale.  I work as Head of Development at Bionical, delivering software solutions to pharma and NHS clients. 

When I am not working I enjoy spending time with my family or heading out for a run or walk in the countryside. I also enjoy live music and sport. 

I am passionate about supporting and helping the school to be the very best it can be. I firmly believe that the Teachers and Parents all want the same thing at Asterdale: for our children to be happy and to provide an education which ensures all pupils reach their full potential.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Joanne Partridge – Parent Governor

As a Parent Governor I have a vested interest in helping the school achieve success in all areas. My children Wilf and Connie both attended the Nursery and are currently in Year 1 and Year 2.

I am very fortunate to also work at the school both as the Librarian and as a Midday supervisor and am proud to be the Chair of the school’s PTFA where we aim to put the ‘Fun’ in Fundraising.

My background is primarily Hospitality and although I have varied experience in a number of customer facing roles including management, since having children and becoming involved with their school, I have found a passion for working with children. I am a strong believer in the power of a smile and alongside the like-minded others on the Governing Board hope to create a happy, safe and nurturing environment where children can thrive.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Gabrielle Hulse – Parent Governor

My name is Gabrielle, I am a Parent Governor at Asterdale Primary School. I work as a hair stylist and have been in the profession for over 15 years in numerous roles including Salon Management and mentor to apprentices, now successfully running my own small business.

Since my two children began attending Asterdale, I have become an active member and now treasurer to the PTFA, having a large part in organising events and fundraising for the school. It’s a role I thoroughly enjoy and find the impact that it has on the school and the children very rewarding.

Being on the Governing Board I hope to help our children and staff excel and succeed throughout their journey here at Asterdale by helping and supporting them to achieve their goals, and by being an approachable member of our school community.