My name is Gary Bullock - I am currently the Chair of Governor’s at Heatherwood School.

One of my three sons so attends Heatherwood School which has been over the last 12 years. I previously worked within the steel industry for over 20 years, in which time I had many roles starting at the bottom and progressing to manufacturing Manager for a site of over 300 employees. In my later years of working in the industry I was in a group role responsible for continuous improvement across the business, this took me to places around the world, and I gained lots of experience working with a diverse cross section of people.

I believe my experience in the steel industry and raising a child with complex needs allows me to bring a vast array of knowledge and expertise to the role of Chair of Governors, being supportive and challenging and also bring a parental perspective to the school where appropriate.

My name is Melanie Pidgeon I have worked in the health setting since qualifying as a nurse over 30 years ago. Most recently I worked for Public Health England as a Programme Manager which required me to work alongside local authorities, the NHS and voluntary sector. I have a niece for whom I am the legal guardian at Heatherwood School and am excited to have recently joined as a Parent Governor.

I feel I am able to represent the views and needs of parents and carers as well as understanding the functions that the school must fulfil.

I have worked in education for just over 25 years; my specialism is SEND. I am committed to facilitating the best educational opportunities for all children and young people - that focusses on preparation for adulthood. I fervently believe everyone, with an additional need, should be able to live a good life.

I have been a teacher for nearly 25 years, and I have been involved in school leadership for 15 years. I began my journey at Heatherwood School at Easter 2024. I feel privileged to be part of such an incredible school; I feel so welcomed by staff, families and our young people. Heatherwood puts its pupils at the heart of everything that we do, and we work alongside Nexus Trust to make sure that we are all the best that we can be. I strongly believe that our young people are in the very best place to experience their highly personalised learning journey.

Information coming soon

For the last 35 years, Fiona has taught children aged 8 – 16 with special needs. As a retired teacher, Fiona is aware of the challenges facing pupils and staff, and understands the requirements of qualifications which students may take. She is familiar with the documentation and procedures necessary within school. Pre Covid, Fiona accompanied out of school visits and helped with fund raising events, activities and looks forward to resuming such occasions. Heatherwood School is a vibrant supportive learning environment of which she is proud to be a part.

My name is Pat Burbanks and I am in my 5th year working at Heatherwood School, although I have worked in education for over 25 years, mostly in special schools. In my role of Cover Supervisor at Heatherwood I am based in Post 16 which I love!

I divide my working week between Heatherwood and The Bridge, also taking our young people on visits out of school for work experience and life skills, as well as enrichment days.

I am proud to have been elected as support staff governor by my colleagues. For some years at my previous school, I served on the Governing Body, so I have experience of this role and what is expected of me.

I believe I provide a professional, caring, encouraging and supportive role model for all the young people I work with.