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.
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.
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.