Our Trustees
Chair of Trustees – David Speakman
Appointed March 2025. Pen Portrait to follow.
Mrs Anna Bateman
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.
Mr Sam Taylor
Pen Portrait to follow. Appointed Feb 2025
Mr J Handy
Awaiting pen portrait appointed October 2024
Mrs Sarah Monteith
Appointed March 2025. Awaiting Pen Portrait.