Our Trustees
Chair of Trustees – David Speakman
Appointed March 2025.
I am very proud to be leading a dedicated and skilled board of trustees, supporting passionate teaching teams at Priorslee and Buildwas academies. Collectively, we are fully committed to delivering the best outcomes for our pupils and creating development opportunities for our teaching staff.
I have lived in Newport for almost 35 years, fostering a deep connection with the local community. With an extensive background in Operational and People Management, Governance, Risk and Compliance, Project Management, and Stakeholder Management, I bring a wealth of experience and leadership to this role. Currently I am a Director of Governance Risk and Compliance for Capita plc, working with the British Army.
Although I have not been employed in education, my highly transferable skills and innovative approach allow me to offer fresh perspectives that enrich decision-making and strategic planning. I am particularly passionate about primary education and firmly believe in its pivotal role as the foundation for future learning, shaping values and behaviours that lead to lifelong success.
Mrs Anna Bateman
Appointed October 2023.
Anna is a highly experienced and accomplished figure in the field of education, with a career spanning nearly three decades. As the founder of Halcyon Education Ltd, she has dedicated her expertise to placing mental health and wellbeing at the forefront of school improvement. Her passion for creating resilient environments where students can thrive academically and personally is evident in her extensive contributions to the education sector.
With a wealth of experience, Anna serves as an advisor and trainer for Senior Mental Health Leads at both local and national levels. Beyond her role as the founder of Halcyon Education, she is actively involved in various leadership positions, including as a Trustee of Might Oaks She has previously been a vice-chair of a governing board and on 2 Interim Executive Boards. Her influence extends to policy-making, having advised the Department for Education on their Mental Health Green Paper.
Anna’s commitment to improving mental health outcomes is reflected in her day-to-day activities, where she actively advises primary and secondary school senior leaders. Her strategic leadership skills extend to overseeing key ongoing contracts and maintaining significant relationships with key national educational organisations.
Anna’s educational journey is complemented by her academic achievements, including a postgraduate certificate with Qualified Teacher Status and a BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Education. She has continued to enhance her knowledge with additional qualifications, such as the Young Minds Academic Resilience Facilitator accreditation and a Social Innovation Module at master’s level.
Her commitment to ongoing learning is evident in her participation in various training programs, including Help to Grow at Birmingham City University, Safeguarding training by NSPCC, and Youth Mental Health First Aid qualification. Anna’s dedication to her field is further demonstrated through her role as a licensed trainer for PATHS Education Worldwide, engaging in ongoing annual training to maintain accreditation.
In summary, Anna is a dedicated, strategic leader, and education expert with a profound commitment to improving mental health outcomes in schools, leaving a lasting legacy for the next generation.
Mrs Sarah Monteith B.Ed. (Hons) & MA Education
Appointed March 2025.
I enjoyed a long and extensive teaching career across the country, working in five different schools over a thirty-two year period. I have taught nursery to Year 6 and every year group in between. In two of these schools I served on the SLT where I led teams of teachers and teaching assistants. I have led teams though OFSTED inspections during this this period, having experienced the inspection process seven times. My passions are Early Years, Reading and the Outdoors.
Outside of Education I enjoy spending time with my family and friends. I am a keen traveller and enjoy biking and baking. I also help my husband with his consultancy business.
I am interested in supporting the trustees to provide an environment where children all achieve their potential and that this environment is fully diverse and supportive of each another. Children should be at the centre of our provision and we should be creating the environment that encourages children to develop core values and not just academic results.
I taught at Priorslee for many years and my daughter attended the school. My husband was also a governor for several years. I have a great affinity for the school and I am keen to be a part of its development moving forward.
Having taken early retirement in 2022 I am keen to serve as a trustee. I feel I have a broad and balanced view of the school and a wealth of experience in education to bring to the board.
Mrs Karen Najran MAAT
Appointed March 2025.
Karen is an experienced professional with a strong background in accounting and finance. Karen has developed expertise in financial management, budgeting, and analysis throughout her career.
Outside of work, Karen has a passion for cooking, travelling, and cherishing quality time with family and friends.
Dedicated to continuous learning, Karen is particularly interested in children’s well-being and development, aiming to promote growth and potential. Karen is an advocate for giving back to the community. Whether it’s through volunteering, supporting local initiatives, or engaging with organisations, Karen is always seeking ways to make a positive impact.
Mr Mark Davis
Appointed June 2025.
Mark taught for 20 years in primary and middle schools, which included 10 years as a Headteacher. Much of his teaching career was spend in Telford. He became the Diocesan Director of Education in September 2023, working for the Diocese of Lichfield and now works with Church of England schools, Local Authorities and Multi Academy Trusts across the Diocese. Mark is also Club Welfare Officer for Ski Team Telford.
