15th May 2024 - 15th May 2028
Appointed by: GB/Board

David's career began in 1976 as a mathematics teacher at a very large comprehensive school in London. In 1979, he moved to become Head of Mathematics at a comprehensive school in northeast England and was subsequently promoted to become Deputy Head teacher. In 1990, David became Head Teacher of Southfield School in Workington, West Cumbria and led the school successfully through the first round of Ofsted school inspections.

In 1997, David moved to North Devon as Principal of Ilfracombe College. During the following years standards rose markedly, culminating in a Department for Education Achievement Award in 2003 shortly before he left the College to join Ofsted as one of Her Majesty’s Inspectors (HMI). After gaining substantial experience as a frontline inspector, David became a member of Ofsted’s senior leadership team and in 2009 moved to a key role in the development of national school inspection policy and practice.

Following his retirement, David undertook a range of voluntary work before joining the Governing Body of Bideford College in 2014. When Bideford became an Academy in March 2016, he was appointed Chair of the Local Governing Body.  David has now been appointed as Chair of the joint Governing Body between Atlantic Academy and Bideford College.  After a rewarding and successful career in education he is glad that he is still able to put something back into the system!

1st January 2019 - N/A
Appointed by: Ex-officio

Dr Ankers has a degree in Environmental Science from the University of Reading and a PhD in Physical Geography from the University of Exeter. She also completed a PGCE in teaching Secondary Geography at Exeter University and has been awarded the NPQH, the National Practitioner Qualification for Headship. Dr Ankers has taught Geography at Bideford College since 2004 and has held a number of middle and senior leadership positions at the college.

Having grown up and been educated in the North Devon area Dr Ankers is passionate about ensuring that young people living in coastal and rural communities have the same employment and education opportunities as those living elsewhere. She is committed to ensuring that the young people of Bideford have access to the best teaching, curriculum, advice and guidance based on the best practice internationally and latest research.

Outside of college Dr Ankers enjoys spending time in the local area with friends, family and the school dog Orlagh, she also likes to travel having visited many countries in 6 of the 7 continents

15th May 2024 - 15th May 2028
Appointed by: GB/Board

Sheila has lived in Devon since 1973, and in Northam since 1980. Her daughter attended both Northam schools and Bideford College.

She has served as a governor at Bideford College since 1987 when elected as a Parent Governor. Sheila has held various posts, including Chair of Governors and Vice Chair, and has seen many changes such as the construction of the new building and joining the Trust in March 2016. She is currently Vice Chair and Safeguarding Governor.

Sheila has also been a governor at St. George's School since 1995. This experience allowed her to take on the role of Trustee of the Atlantic Coast Co-operative Trust, including the Federation of Northam Schools since 2015 until October 2023 when St.Margaret's C of E Junior School and St.George's C of  E Infant & Nursery Schools  joined the Ventrus Multi- Academy Trust, she is currently  Chair of the Local Governing Body for both schools.  She was a Councillor from 1995 - 2003 and was Deputy Mayor 2002- 2003. Sheila served on the Devon Advisory Committee for JPs from 1999 - 2007.

Sheila was diagnosed with MS in 1978 and later undertook an Open University degree which allowed her to represent disadvantaged students for the South West with the various requirements of support needed.

Sheila values education and understands what it can bring to the lives of children of all ages, helping to widen horizons and see potential achieved. She hopes to contribute to the wider community by continuing to support our local schools.

15th May 2024 - 15th May 2028
Appointed by: GB/Board

Mark and his family relocated to North Devon over 10 years ago. His three children have attended a number of educational facilities in the area during that time, with his daughter attending the sixth form at Bideford College in recent years. As a parent, he found this to be a positive, inclusive and nurturing experience.

Mark qualified as a registered nurse for adults with a learning disability back in the 1990s and then subsequently worked for 20 years within the NHS in Yorkshire, Cornwall and London. For the last 14 years, he has been employed with Devon County Council as a senior manager within adult social care. He has a lead role in North Devon around all things disability related including practice, process and policy, supporting local health and social care teams to ensure they are operating from a person centered and strength-based approach for each and every disabled individual - changing the perspective to one of positivity and what a person can do for themselves rather than the starting point being about what they can’t do. Mark also has a professional practice lead role for countywide social care Autism and ADHD service.

Mark's related experience is of working alongside families facing different challenges and supporting them towards more positive outcomes. This has included overseeing a smooth transition of young adults with an education, health and social care plan into adult services. His role also includes leading on safeguarding processes when required and signposting to other agencies, services and partner organisations across the wider Devon system, enabling them to achieve their potential.

Mark wants to be a school governor at Bideford College as the ethos of everyone matters and everyone counts has underpinned the whole of his adult working life and feels like a good fit and a mutually beneficial partnership.

15th May 2024 - 15th May 2028
Appointed by: GB/Board

Elise joined Bideford College in January 2008 as a Newly Qualified Teacher and, after more than a decade amongst this incredibly devoted team of teachers and leaders, she was absolutely thrilled to secure a permanent appointment as Head of Modern Foreign Languages in 2018.

Elise was born in France, and she studied English, German and French as a foreign language at the University of La Réunion in the Indian Ocean. She qualified with honours and decided to put her newly learnt skills to the test and came over to England as a Languages Assistant for a North Devon school. Elise joined Exeter University to obtain her teaching qualification in 2006. Over the last decade, she has taken on many roles including acting Head of Year and Head of Faculty.

Elise has always been a firm believer in the potential of Bideford College and the community it represents. She has a vision of Bideford College as a national example for others to follow. Elise will work tirelessly to ensure that all students aspire to excel and grow to love and value the education that they are receiving in our lovely part of the country.

15th May 2024 - 15th May 2028
Appointed by: GB/Board

Hannah's connection with Bideford College spans many years, generations and even buildings! She attended Bideford Comprehensive school in the 80s, before heading to Petroc for A-levels. Hannah then indulged her passion for languages and travel with a BA in French and Italian with European Studies at the University of Bath, before embarking on communication and travel-related jobs in London.

After a brief stint in Brussels working with the European Commission, Hannah worked as a management trainer, based primarily in the Lake District, but delivering leadership and team building programmes world-wide, and mainly in Italy and France. She was incredibly fortunate to find a career which combined her love of all things foreign with the beauty and opportunities offered by the Great British outdoors.

Hannah has watched Bideford College progress over the years, with facilities worthy of any university. The College has highly motivated and engaged teachers who care for their pupils and for their education.

15th May 2024 - 15th May 2028
Appointed by: GB/Board 

I was a former pupil at Bideford College during the 70s and 80s and went on to qualify as a Biomedical Scientist at Portsmouth Polytechnic and worked in the hospital Biochemistry lab. After moving to London, I started a 10 year career as an Area Sales Manager selling water purification equipment into industry. This eventually led to a year living in the USA before finally returning back to Devon where I planted my roots and started my family. 

Having involved myself with my children's local primary school, I then became a Teaching Assistant at Great Torrington Bluecoat Primary School where I have been for the last 15 years. I have specialised in reading and phonics, supporting children with dyslexia and reading difficulties. I  am also a cover supervisor offering teaching provision across all year groups. 

My own children were both very successful at  Bideford College and while one has completed a Geography degree at Exeter University and progressed to embark on a journalism career in London, the other has just started their second year of a Chemistry degree at Cardiff University.

Working in primary education gives me a great insight into the challenges faced by teaching staff and pupils. My own children reached their full potential and I want all young people to do the same. I believe that Bideford College is an excellent school and all pupils can succeed with the right support. I hope that my knowledge, experience and passion for education can contribute to the best outcomes for the pupils and assist Bideford College in its continued success.

15th May 2024 - 15th May 2028
Appointed by: GB/Board

I was born locally and a former pupil at Bideford College in the 1980’s.  After leaving school I had various different jobs including working within the travel industry both in the UK and overseas. 

I have a son who is in his second year at Bideford College and he has settled in well.  I have worked in children and adult social care for 25 years.  My main role since 2019 has been to support young people with either a physical or learning disability.  My job is to support people live a positive life, helping individuals to meet their aims and goals for the future.  This is often in regards to education and employment, health, and wellbeing, accessing and being part of a local community, having friends and relationships and working towards skills which will hopefully, in time lead to the person living as independently as they can.  I work with various professionals, and in partnership with families and most importantly the person themselves, advocating and promoting positive outcomes, listening to the wishes and feelings of individuals I support.

I have in the past volunteered with local scouting groups and was involved as a volunteer at a local primary school.  This is my first time as a Governor, I am interested in taking an active role in helping influence my son's learning and the direction which Bideford College is taking.  As a former pupil and a parent, I think being able to work alongside the school in a positive way, having a say in aspects of how the school is run and being able to challenge decisions constructively is important.  I also want to volunteer some time to the school as it is such an important provision in local children’s lives and all children deserve the best education, we can provide them.  My experience working in social care has given me an understanding of vulnerable children’s needs and I have a particular interest in Special Educational Needs, due to my role assisting young adults with a physical or learning disability.  For me it would be an interesting perspective to be a part of the governing body team and get to know the staff leadership team and offer support in any way I can.  In my opinion, being a governor will give me the best chance to be involved with my own son’s educational chances whilst having the opportunity to be involved in the strategic decisions and future direction the school is taking, whilst being part of a team whose main purpose is a focus on the best outcomes for children.

15th May 2024 - 15th May 2028
Appointed by: GB/Board

Mark has taught at Bideford college since April 1997, where he started his NQT year as an Art teacher. During his time at Bideford College he has specialised in teaching 3d design and began his early years delivering the GCSE 3d design course. Mark later set up the GCSE photography course due to the excitement amongst students about exploring digital photography.

During his time with the college, Mark has worked as a Head of Department, a Head of Faculty and also spent time supporting the ALT with teaching and learning as an associate senior leader, prior to the college becoming an Academy trust.  Mark is a proud member of the Bideford College team and the Athena Learning Trust.  He has seen the college grow and develop in recent years and is excited to be a part of the Trust's future.

15th May 2024 - 15th May 2028
Appointed by: GB/Board

I was born and raised in North Devon. After going to university, I returned to Bideford and have had various jobs, mainly in social care spanning the past 26 years, in Children’s Services and now in adults. I work mostly with younger people with Learning Disabilities or working-age adults with learning or physical disabilities. My main focus at work is supporting people to be as independent as possible and be able to achieve their best potential. My work focuses on advocacy, support & enabling as well as safeguarding vulnerable adults. I am used to working alongside other professionals as well as people & their families to work towards their own identified goals. I work in a multidisciplinary team which allows us to think about all of a person’s needs and how these impact on each other, working together.
Through all this, listening to the person is crucial & is a big part of good communication skills.
I feel that this all lends itself well to a role as a Governor.

My daughter is at Bideford College, and she has settled in well and at some point my son will also join the school. I am keen to ensure that I am up to speed with how the school is functioning and how it will support my children & others to be happy & to be able to achieve their future goals & positive outcomes. Being a part of this growing academy is exciting, and I welcome the opportunity to share my own experience, advice & support. If I can be a part of something that can make a difference for children & young people, then I feel that is really worthwhile & I’m excited to work alongside others to support the school & the pupils.

15th May 2024 - 15th May 2028
Appointed by: GB/Board

Charlotte has served as a Governor at another school for an extended period and derives great satisfaction from her role, where she has recently attained a promotion as the vice chair of their local governing body.  Additionally, she has a background as a reading tutor and has completed numerous courses in children's mental health, well-being, behaviour, and special educational needs. Charlotte holds a strong passion for reading, with a particular focus on aiding Dyslexic children in reaching their full potential.

15th May 2024 - 15th May 2028
Appointed by: GB/Board

Entranced by the beauty of the South West, Jade decided early in life to make it home.

Following a career spanning Design, Packaging, FMCG, ID, Fashion, Events, Lifestyle and Blue Chip companies, Jade retrained as a teacher of Design and Technology in 2020, combining her passions of strategy, design and nurture. 

Viewing through a traditional and creative lens to get to the heart of the matter, Jade has always built strong, positive and lasting relationships across a range of people groups and outlooks.

Inclusion is at the centre of Jade's ambition. To offer a safe and fulfilling environment for all, within a duty of care. In Jade's classroom and wider offering, feeling safe to share is a standard. The individual is seen, and their voice is heard. Jade believes in the power of ultimate pupil progress: through holistic, stimulating, care.

28th October 2021 - 28th October 2025
Appointed by: GB/Board

End of Term: 28th May 2024

Zoe works in the finance industry after graduating with her masters in International Relations from the University of Exeter. Doing her undergrad specialism in economics, Zoe is looking to bring her skills obtained through education and work into her role as the SEND governor. Zoe also plays football for Exeter City Women and has previously played for the likes of Tenerife and West Brom.

15th May 2024 - 15th May 2028
Appointed by: GB/Board

End of Term: 14th October 2024

I have worked in sports and leisure for 18 years first starting as a casual Lifeguard while at college, then offered a full-time position. Trained as gym instructor and swimming teacher. I was fortunate enough to work with organisations, children, and adults with a range of disabilities, social difficulties, and domestic difficulties, trying to get as many children as possible to access sports within a deprived location. I have undertaken many qualifications to help children with SEN challenges and additional commination methods.

In 2014, I joined the PTA at my children’s local primary school, 2015 became vice chair until 2017. I then joined a local family centre helping residents access information and service they need to improve their own circumstances.

My family relocated to Cornwall in 2020, I am currently setting up my own craft small business.

15th May 2024 - 15th May 2028
Appointed by: GB/Board

End of Term: 1st April 2025

Sue has spent most of her working life in the health and charitable sectors, gaining a wealth of experience in service provision. Having retired, she moved back to Devon to be close to her family.

Welfare and wellbeing are important to Sue. From her nursing experience, she is very aware of the wider need for support and understanding, particularly in clinical and emotional settings.

Currently, Sue holds a governor post at Instow Community Primary and Preschool and has taken an active role in creating the new Preschool building which opens in September. Her other responsibilities have included Finance, Pay & Performance and Community Links. One of her strengths is fundraising, and she has raised significant funds from the private, corporate and charitable sectors to fund capital projects including a state-of-the-art neonatal intensive care unit in Bath. This sustainable building encapsulates the ethos of being responsible at the very beginning of the babies’ lives.

Sue considers herself to be a caring person and believes in supporting the local community. She also believes that a good education for children and students is of paramount importance to enable them to achieve to the best of their capabilities - which is why she has volunteered to become a governor at Bideford College.