Members of The Heights Local Academy Council are:
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.
Judy Tullett (Trust Appointed)
Judy has been involved in working with communities for the past 50 years from being a Housing Manager to working in non-traditional educational settings to now leading a community-based project in Smiths Wood. Judy believes in enabling our communities to thrive and reach their full potential.
Matthew Hill (Staff Representative)
Matthew wanted to join the LAC as he is keen to support the school and local community. Matthew is really looking forward to getting to know more about the school and to support The Heights Academy with the fantastic initiatives it currently has in place.
Elysha Hughes (Staff Representative)
Elysha has worked in various schools over the past 8 years supporting many wonderful children. Elysha wanted to join the LAC to continue supporting the school. Elysha is excited to start this new role.
Sheena Hodgson (Trust Appointed)
Sheena has worked in schools for over twenty-five years in two neighbouring local authority areas and currently works part time for an education consultancy firm. As an experienced member of school leadership teams, Sheena has gained extensive knowledge across a number of appropriate disciplines: policy, finance & legal, HR, SEND, leadership, capital and premises and estates. Sheena has been closely involved with governance for most of her working life and firmly believes in the transforming process of school governance and the additional educational and business skills that both Governors and Trustees can bring to a school or Trust.
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.
Lisa Williams (Parent Representative)
Lisa is a mother of four and grandmother of two with 30 years of lived experience in additional needs challenges. One of Lisa’s daughters attends the Heights Academy. Lisa is currently studying a degree in Sociology and Criminology. Lisa is looking forward to gaining new experiences and skills as a member of the Local Academy Council, whilst using her acquired experience to support the children on their academic journey.