Alex Gilston

(Chair of Governors)

I was born and raised in East Ardsley and attended the old Infant and Junior schools before finishing my education at Woodkirk High School. I have a degree in Civil and Structural Engineering and I am an Incorporated Engineer with the Institution of Civil Engineers.

I am driven, adaptable, professional, risk averse and committed to the role of a Governor.  I have the ability to question and analyse problems and offer the best possible solution.  I am committed to engaging within a team environment and have good inter-personal skills. I have excellent numeracy and literacy skills with a good understanding of Finance, Legal, HR, Computing and Data Analysis.

I currently work as a Senior Engineer with an International Multi-disciplinary Design consultancy and have extensive experience of working on major projects for clients worldwide, on Government schemes for the Ministry of Defence, National Highways and the UK Water Utility companies.

Term of office ends: July 2029.

Rev. Mark Watson

(Vice Chair of Governors)

I’ve had the privilege of being a Governor at several schools during my ministry, and I am currently Vice Chair of Governors at East Ardsley Primary Academy. I’m able to draw upon training and experience from both my secular career and my career in Church ministry, with skills including leadership development, staff management, and data analysis as well as a qualification in mindfulness-based CBT.

I am passionate about education and keen to support local schools and the staff team in creating an atmosphere and culture in which children can flourish, grow, and reach their full potential. I’m also passionate about community cohesion and engagement, seeking to develop beneficial links between all community stakeholders. I am the link Governor for Behaviour & Attitudes and Personal Development.

Term of office ends: September 2026.

Laura Martindale

(Parent Governor)

Pen portrait to follow.

Term of office ends: September 2026.

Graham Pollard

(Co-opted Governor)

I have been a Social Worker for  over 17 years working with children and disadvantaged families, working alongside various partner agencies in order to find the best outcomes for children and facilitate positive change.

As a parent of two children attending East Ardsley Primary Academy, I aim to bring my professional skills and experience in order to offer both high levels of support and challenge, so that all our children can reach their full potential during this important stage of their lives.

Term of office ends: November 2026.

Sarah Talbot

(Principal)

I started my teaching career as a teacher in a junior school in Huddersfield before moving to a primary school in Birstall and then onto headship of a primary school in Wakefield.  I joined East Ardsley Primary Academy as Principal in September 2015. Throughout this time I have taken on all manner of leadership roles; including SENCo and Literacy Co-ordinator, and taught every age group from 5 to 11 year olds. 

I believe I have an in-depth knowledge of how children learn and have been privileged to work with a huge range of inspirational teachers and children who have helped to shape my philosophy of education. I focus on developing an inclusive ethos that ensures every child is considered and their needs met to enable them to flourish both socially and emotionally, and academically.

Amie Trigwell

(Parent Governor)

Pen portrait to follow.

Term of office ends: September 2026.

Emily Willans

(Staff Governor)