Members of the Bridge Local Academy Council (LAC)
Headteacher: Andrew Seager
Andrew has 25 years of experience in education and has a strong desire to improve the outcomes for pupils with SEN. He has been a successful Headteacher for the last eight years and is looking forward to the challenge of continuing the great work already in action at The Bridge School. He has extensive experience as a governor in a special school and will bring that knowledge into the trust.
Chair: Paul Roberts (Trust Appointed)
Paul was a teacher and head teacher for many years in special schools. Paul has carried out school improvement consultancy and served for 8 years as an IEB member and LAC chair at Hallmoor School . Paul was asked to become interim LAC Chair at The Bridge School in January this year.
Janki Dattani (Trust Appointed)
Janki has worked in healthcare for the past 11 years, supporting both adults and children in a clinical and non-clinical capacity. Janki has a passion for improving people’s lives, ensuring everyone receives equitable care and support. Janki was particularly drawn to Bridge School, as it will allow her to make a positive difference to children’s education. The role will allow Janki to utilise her employment background in a meaningful way, supporting the school and trust.
Amna Abbasi (Parent Representative)
Amna is a parent at The Bridge School with experience in teaching and community work. Amna has a passion for helping our children thrive to make their school experience as positive and fulfilling as possible.
Michelle Middleton (Staff Representative)
Michelle has worked at The Bridge School for 27 years. She started at the Longmoor Residential unit in 1997, before continuing as a TA in the school at its current site. Through her dedication, she has gained a great amount of experience and is looking forward to contributing to the future innovation of the school by being part of the LAC.
Daphne Hall (Trust Appointed)
Daphne has a grandchild at The Bridge School, and enjoys the daily contact with both staff and parents as well as regular involvement in school activities.
Education has been a passion for Daphne having served as a Governor at a West Sussex Primary School and as Vice Chair of the Board of the International School of Stockholm, where her children studied. Daphne’s career as an international IBM IT Consultant and Project Leader has given her considerable experience in delivering successful assignments alongside colleagues from a wide variety of cultures and backgrounds as well as developing strong communication skills.
Rebecca Hartley (Trust Appointed)
Rebecca is a mother of two children, one who attends The Bridge School. Rebecca has 13 years of experience working with children and adults in a complex care environment. Rebecca has a passion for improving the lives of children, enabling them to access comprehensive support and opportunities to reach their full potential.
Susan Darbinson (Trust Appointed)
Susan is an experienced teacher having worked in four different primary schools throughout her career. Susan has been a Governor on three separate occasions in the past, serving as both a staff and parent representative. Susan is enthusiastic about joining The Bridge School LAC and using her experience to support the school.