Rebekah Besford – Chair of Governors

I have been a Governor at Bankside since my children started at the school in 2010 and became the Chair of Governors in 2012. I spent 10 years volunteering as a nurse at an orphanage in Mozambique have worked with 0-19 service and now work as nurse with people experiencing homelessness. I enjoy being outside: trying to grow vegetables on my allotment, wild swimming and going for walks in the countryside.

 

Adam Brett – Vice Chair of Governors

I work for an Education Consultancy in Leeds. When work and governor duties allow, I like to travel, having completed part of my degree in the USA and spent two years teaching English in primary and middle schools in Japan. I would love to visit Macu Picchu and the ruins of Pompeii. In my spare time I play amateur basketball for a local team, the Mandela Warriors, and have a passion for old movies.

 

Jon Hairsine

I live in Hebden Bridge, which is 25 miles away, but lived in Gledhow when I first became a Governor at Bankside over 20 years ago. I am

married and have two adult children. I worked in business for 30 years but I’m retired now and spend a lot of my time doing voluntary work,

mostly in education. In my free time I go cycling in the wonderful Yorkshire countryside, and sometimes in other

parts of the world.

 

Nicola Richardson

I am a Performance and Intelligence Manager within the NHS and I have been a governor at Bankside since 2016. I enjoy being active and spend my spare time cycling, swimming (including open water!) and practicing yoga. I love to travel and explore, and often take my bike abroad... life is better by bike! I love experiencing new cuisines and cultures, enjoy cooking, and as of recent years, that now includes growing my own vegetables at home. 

 

Dee Marshall

I have lived in Leeds, not far from Bankside, nearly all my life. I am married with 2 grown up daughters. I’ve worked as a journalist in newspapers, radio and TV, and now I’m semi-retired I do freelance PR and Event Management. Having worked for a large company, in the public sector and set up my own company, I understand the complexities of budgets, staffing, KPIs etc. As my skillset is communications, I am keen to help the school with all aspects of communications.

 

Amelia Grimet

I have been a Parent/Governor at Bankside since 2024.

As a neurodivergent individual, I am always committed to challenging stereotypes associated with neurodiversity, particularly autism and ADHD. I strive to support and empower other parents during our SEN coffee mornings, fostering a sense of community and solidarity.

I love animals, especially cats and spiders.

Sarah Matthews

I have been a teacher at Bankside since 2016 and have taught most year groups. I live in south Leeds and outside of work I am a Girl Guide leader and volunteer with Dazl Dance where my daughter dances.