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.
Jane Owens MBE
Appointed September 2025.
Jane is an experienced trustee / governor who was appointed as a National Leader of Governance in 2012. Jane is involved in a variety of governance roles across the education sector. In her capacity as NGL, Jane supported the National College of Teaching and Leadership to develop the External Reviews of Governance (ERG) process which was in response to the drive towards more effective governance. She also mentors local and national Chairs of Governors, conducts ERGs, Health Checks and Performance and Impact Reviews. Jane was awarded an MBE in 2016 for her services to education.
Fee (Fiona) Stagg
Appointed March 2025.
Fee runs her own Governance consultancy and has been a Governor and Trustee since 2004 in a number of schools and academies.
Fee is also a Governance Professional and clerks for a range of schools across the country. Fee is a well-respected blogger on governance, conference speaker, and former Chartered Town Planner.
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.
