Academy Council

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

David Edwards, Chair of Academy Council

After studying at London and Cambridge Universities, I taught for nearly 40 years in a variety of settings and leadership roles, whilst also working as a school inspector for 25 years. Now retired, I am spending my time ticking off items on my bucket list! I have been a Governor at CPS for 10 years.
Very best wishes,
David.

Local Academy Councillors

Carolyn Tayler-Webb, Parent & SEND Councillor

Carolyn Tayler-Webb is visual artist, photographer, and educator with over a decade of experience working in education. She is a Parent Governor committed to supporting creativity and inclusion in schools. Carolyn currently teaches photography at Exeter College and is a Trustee at Yeovil Art Space. She regularly exhibits her work nationally and leads creative workshops across Somerset, combining her passion for the arts with a strong commitment to community and learning.

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.

Michelle Harris, Sponsored Councillor

Michelle Harris is a secondary-trained PE teacher with a First-Class Honours degree, she has over 23 years of teaching experience. After 18 years in a large London comprehensive, she moved to Somerset in 2018, where she spent five years as Head of Maths in a local secondary school. Throughout her career, Michelle has held a wide range of leadership roles, and is a Level 3 Somerset-trained DSL. She also completed a Masters in Educational Leadership and Management during the Covid pandemic.
Since 2023, Michelle has worked in alternative education, tutoring Maths for electively home-educated young people, many of whom are neurodivergent. Beyond education, she has represented England in rugby, enjoys travelling, and is kept busy by her two dogs, Mac and Dobby.

Charlotte Middleton, Support Staff Councillor

I am a proud parent of three children, all of whom have attended or are currently attending our school.

Over the years I have had the privilege of being closely involved in school life, not just as a parent, but as a member of staff. I have worked in a variety of roles including playleader, lunchtime supervisor, higher level teaching assistant and supporting in Tiny Turrets Nursery.

These experiences have given me a deep understanding of how our school runs day to day, the needs of our pupils and the dedication of our staff. I am passionate about creating an inclusive environment where every child can thrive and contributing to the school’s continued success.

Samantha Williams, Parent Councillor