Ashlands Primary School

Joanna Archdale (Staff Governor)

I am in my thirteenth year of teaching at Ashlands and my third as staff governor. I have previously lead PE and Sport provision across the school and, as of this academic year, I am the SENDCo. I am keen to ensure that all children make progress and achieve to the best of their ability, regardless of their learning needs or disabilities and support our staff in their provision of an inclusive curriculum.  

Chris Brown (Parent Governor)

I joined the governing body as a Parent Governor in May 2021 and have two children at Ashlands currently in Year 6 and Year 4. I also sit on the Finance & Resources Sub-Committee as I have an extensive background across finance and risk. Professionally, I am currently the Chief Internal Audit Officer for Danske Bank UK and have worked across Financial Services and Professional Services for almost 20 years.

Alison Chalmers (Parent Governor)

I am a Chartered Accountant with around 25 years of experience, specialising in corporate tax. I have experience of working on company boards as well pension fund committees.

I have 2 children, the youngest in Year 5 at Ashlands.”

Sarah Edwards (Co-Opted Governor)

I am an Employment Law solicitor with 12 years’ experience. I advise SME businesses from many industries on employment law and HR disputes and processes. 

I live in Ilkley, am a keen sports person and particularly love to fell run and cycle. I aim to promote a culture of physical activity and sport for our children.

Rachel Hatfield (Co-Opted Governor)

I am a forward-thinking leader with a diverse background spanning events, marketing, entrepreneurship and leadership. I drive innovation within teams. My passion is to inspire creative thinking and foster a dynamic, inclusive community. Beyond my role, I’m dedicated to education, guest lecturing at Leeds Beckett University to inspire undergraduate students. We also run the SHOO Academy, a platform where we share knowledge and insights with students at all levels from schools to universities. From event management to reshaping, digital marketing and technology, I’m committed to celebrating individuality and creativity in our ever-evolving landscape.

Roya Helme (Co-Opted Governor)

I am a co-opted governor and safeguarding lead now in my third year.

I have two children who started at reception at Ashlands, completing their primary education and now attend IGS.

I bring my working experience in ensuring that safeguarding is everyone’s business.  I value robust governance processes together with the qualitative narrative experiences of pupils, staff, and governors to celebrate achievements and seek out areas of development.

Annet Nottingham (Local Authority Governor) Chair of Governors

I became LA governor and Chair of the Board in September 2022. I am a retired academic with a strong commitment to education. I can draw on my experience of working at senior level at university to help steer Ashlands Primary School towards continued success for its pupils. I have lived in Ilkley for more than 25 years and greatly value our community. I have 20 years’ experience as a school governor and am also Chair at Menston Primary School.

Sandra Overfield (Co-Opted Governor)

I am a mum of 2. Both of my children attended state primary school in Ilkley and are now studying at Ilkley Grammar School. 

I am a Chartered Accountant with 20 years of experience working in practice, industry and with the charitable sector. I currently work from home running my own small accountancy practice. I am currently Treasurer for Ilkley Christchurch Scout Group and am on the Board of Trustees of Paperworks, a North Leeds charity which supports adults with learning disabilities.”

Nicola Wharmby (Trustee Appointed Governor)

I have been a governor at Ashlands since 2015, first as a parent governor and now as a community governor. Both my children went to Ashlands and are now at Ilkley Grammar School. I currently work for Day One Trauma Support as governance manager; previously she worked in governance for Co-op Academy Trust. Prior to having children I was Director of Training for Place2Be.