Our Members
Chair – Mr John Dickenson
I am a qualified accountant. After graduating from the University of Birmingham, I spent nine years in the profession, working with clients ranging from a corner shop to a national retailer. I moved into industry in 1989 and worked as financial director to a succession of family businesses, particularly enjoying arranging new sources of finance including a public issue of shares.
I was until recently employed by a company in Shifnal which manufactured and supplied mobility and therapy equipment to the disabled, primarily the paediatric market. I am now semi-retired. I have two grown up children. I was a Governor elsewhere in Telford from 2006 to 2015. I now bring my professional knowledge to Mighty Oaks Academy Trust as a Member.
Mrs Sam Lane
I am a Finance Director of an Architects Practice in Priorslee. I have a background in Property Administration, Financial Administration, Systems Administration and Health & Safety, which help me to scrutinise procedures, risk assessments and audits supporting Mighty Oaks Academy Trust.
I have been involved predominantly at Priorslee Academy since 2005 and have carried out many roles. I have been a Governor, Link Governor, Trustee and Chair of Friends (the PTA). During this time I have met with OFSTED for two inspections, taken part in the Comenius Project and have helped with the Arts award and the Healthy Schools Award.
As a Member I want to support the school and help raise funds to keep it as the wonderful learning environment it is. Helping to ensure all pupils in our Trust have every opportunity to take part, thrive and be the best they can possibly be.
Mrs Pauline Heffernan
I have been a governor for many years, both in Telford and in my native Wolverhampton. I believe in the excellent life experiences and learning opportunities afforded by catholic education. I am a director of my own company here in Telford and that allows me to give time to take an active interest in the life of both our federated schools. I work mainly with charities and the voluntary sector, offering advice on a range of issues. Of Irish heritage, I particularly enjoy visiting family in Ireland and exploring places of interest both here and abroad.
Mr Jonathan Smith
I am an enthusiastic and inspirational leader who has created and led successful teams in a range of work and non-work based areas. Being a compassionate leader who focusses on wellbeing, has enabled me to forge strong connection within teams and between individuals. Building reliable, robust relationships within my tram is at the heart of my leadership style and whole working ethos.
I worked in education for 22 years, 5 years as a Deputy, 9 years as a Headteacher, and 2 as a School Improvement Lead for a Trust. I have achieved my Counselling qualification and my Level 5 Coach and Mentor certificate.
Mrs Ellen Osbourne
I have gained more than 20 years of local government experience within the education sector giving me extensive knowledge of safer recruitment and pre-employment practices within schools. I currently support more than 500 schools across the West Midlands region to ensure recruitment and the Single Central Record are compliant. I provide bespoke advice around complex recruitment issues.
I am also a Qualified Workplace Mediator and have dealt with both simple and complex cases, working with various categories of employees, from senior leaders to administration.
I am committed and passionate about ensuring the very best outcomes for all children and young people.
