Members of The Heights Local Academy Council are:
Lisa Walker-Headteacher
Lisa has worked in education for thirty years and has always worked in special schools. She is a Specialist Leader in Education for Initial Teacher Training and is proud to have trained and developed many teachers both for mainstream and special schools during her career. Developing others is a real priority for Lisa and she feels that children in special schools deserve to have the most skilled and committed people working with them.
Lisa enjoys being part of a team and loves to work collaboratively, she is very keen that children attending The Heights Academy feel safe and nurtured and are able to progress academically, socially and personally. It is a priority to prepare students for a successful and purposeful adult life.
Everton Burke- Chair (Trust Appointed)
Everton has worked in the FE sector for some 40 years, undertaking a variety of roles. He began as an apprentice chef, then lecturer, middle manager, senior leader and governor of a general further education college.
He has worked at national level advising the Department for Education (DfE) in matters of hospitality and catering qualifications. He has also worked internationally through a European Union (EU) funded project with partners from 5 countries.
Everton set up and ran a successful language school in partnership with a local education authority. He is an education consultant and mentors middle and senior leadership staff in the FE sector in colleges, private training providers and local authorities.
Katie Kavanagh (Parent Representative)
I am a devoted mother to two daughters, one of whom is diagnosed with autism and attends the Heights Academy. I bring 19 years of experience as a registered professional within the NHS, and hope that my wealth of skills will be able to enhance the school community. I have gained a passion and interest for Special Educational Needs and Disabilities and have sought to educate myself further over the past few years through various courses and events. I believe that my blend of professional experiences, personal experiences, and ongoing commitment to learning equips me well for the role of a parent/carer representative. I am eager to contribute to the school’s success and create a positive environment for all our children.
Clare Jennings (Trust Appointed)
Clare is an experienced teacher and SENCO currently working in a primary school in Birmingham. She is passionate about supporting pupils with special educational needs and is committed to sharing her expertise to help all children thrive. Clare is looking forward to contributing to the success of The Heights Academy by offering her knowledge and support to staff, pupils, and the wider school community.
Joanne Skinner (Staff Representative)
Joanne has worked in education as a member of support staff for 18 years, and has been part of The Heights Academy since its early building phase. Joanne looks forward to continuing to contribute to the school and supporting our shared journey as it grows strengthens our community.
Tamsin Gazey (Staff Representative)
Tamsin brings strong experience as a Key Stage 2 teacher, having progressed from a Teaching Assistant to a qualified teacher with training and a deep understanding of children’s learning and wellbeing. As a local parent and an active member of the community through charity work, supporting homeless shelters, and involvement in her church group, Tamsin is committed to contributing positively to the area The Heights Academy serves. She chose to become a LAC member because she is passionate about helping the academy provide a safe, ambitious, and nurturing environment in which every child can thrive.
