Castle Primary School is part of the Cabot Learning Federation, a multi-academy trust that is responsible for a number of academies across Bristol, South Gloucestershire, North Somerset, Gloucester and Somerset. Governance for a multi-academy trust operates at two levels. At trust level, there is a Board of Directors. The directors are accountable to the Department for Education and external government agencies, including the Charity Commission, for the quality of the education the trust provides and the effective use of the associated academy funding. They are required to have systems in place through which they can assure themselves of quality, financial probity, safety and good practice. The Board is provided assurance on a number of these areas through various sub-committees, as shown in the diagram below. Visit the
CLF website for more information about the board.
At a local level, each academy has an Academy Council comprising of up to 9 Academy Councillors. Academy Councils are responsible for holding Principals and their leadership teams to account for the quality and effectiveness of the academic experience of the students under their care with the aim of securing effective school improvement. They do this through monitoring performance against an annual academy improvement plan, through monitoring risks and responses to risks, and by overseeing systems and processes for the safeguarding of children and the health, safety and wellbeing of academy staff.
Chair of Academy Council
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David Edwards, Chair of Academy Council
If you would like to contact the Chair of the Academy Council, please send your email via the school [email protected]
Local Academy Councillors
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Lee Churchill, Parent & Health & Safety Councillor
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Carolyn Tayler-Webb, Parent & SEND Councillor
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Frances Abbott, Staff Councillor
Since 2014, I have been a dedicated member of Castle Primary School, serving in roles such as Early Years Practitioner, SEN 1:1 Support Assistant, Teaching Assistant, and now, Year 6 Teacher. As a parent of two children who attended Castle Primary, I have a unique perspective as both a parent and staff member. My diverse roles have allowed me to work with children aged 2 to 11, fostering a deep understanding of early childhood and primary education. I am passionate about building strong relationships and creating a supportive, engaging, and inclusive learning environment where every child feels valued and encouraged to reach their full potential.
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Gemma Whitehead, Support Staff Councillor
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Michelle Harris, Sponsored Councillor
