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Meet our Governors

Richard WebsterRichard Webster

Richard has over 30 years of experience in education, including 25 years in SEND, and holds a Masters in Special Education alongside the NPQH. He has served as a Headteacher, Head of College and Assistant Principal, bringing extensive leadership expertise and a strong commitment to inclusive practice.

A Teacher of Art & Design, Richard blends creativity with strategic insight. He has led innovative 14+ education projects and is a qualified Careers Lead, dedicated to improving life chances for young people.

Richard is the Chair of the Kenwood Academy Council, where his enthusiasm, creativity and student centred approach help drive continuous improvement. He is passionate about making a positive difference to every learner.

Outside of work, he enjoys fishing, football and DIY, bringing the same hands on energy to his hobbies as he does to his professional life.

 

Ella Dixon     Ella Dixon   

I joined Nexus as an Executive Assurance Partner in September 2023. Prior to this, I was a Headteacher of a Primary school in Sheffield. My responsibilities within the Trust are quality assurance and school improvement. I focus on all areas of school improvement, but I particularly support schools on behaviour, PSHE/RSE and family support. I feel privileged to be the Chair of Governors at Becton Academy.

Outside of work, I have two children who keep me busy with all their extracurricular activities! I live in Penistone and enjoy exploring the beautiful countryside.

 

Kerry James

Kerry brings many years of experience to the school, having worked in roles such as Office Manager, Attendance Officer and Learning Mentor. Her broad background helps her support pupils, families and staff with confidence and care.

Kerry feels privileged to be part of the school community. She is known for being a good listener and is always friendly and approachable, making her a valued member of the team.

 

Kathy Esberger    Kathy Esberger

Kathy Esberger has 38 years of experience in SEND, working as a specialist teacher and Local Authority Service Leader for children and young people with visual impairments. She has contributed to national and regional developments, including quality standards, assessments, training, and a regional Charter Mark.

Kathy is passionate about empowering young people to achieve their full potential and is a strong advocate for listening to the student’s voice. She brings extensive experience of working with families and multi‑agency teams to ensure holistic, person‑centred support. As a governor, she is committed to supporting Kenwood School’s inclusive ethos and strategic direction.

 

Martin Grinold      Martin Grinold

Martin has a long‑standing interest in how children learn and holds a degree in Education and Professional Development. As a parent of two autistic children, he understands the importance of recognising individual learning needs and supporting every child to thrive.

He has worked in health and social care throughout his adult life, including roles in Policy, Quality Assurance, Project Management and regulation. These roles have strengthened his ability to analyse information, ask constructive questions and support high‑quality services.

Martin is committed to using both his personal experience and professional skills to contribute positively to the governing body and the wider school community.

 

Kizzy Jaycock      Kizzy Jaycock

Kizzy is an experienced Curriculum Leader for Creative Arts and Technologies with over ten years in Special Education. She is passionate about inclusive practice and holds high expectations for every learner, guided by her belief that Art makes children powerful.

With specialist training in supporting students with Autism, communication barriers and high anxiety, Kizzy creates calm, creative and accessible learning environments where all students can thrive. She is currently working towards her SENCO qualification, further strengthening her expertise in meeting diverse needs across the school.

 

Bridget Parrott

Bridget joined Kenwood in 2017 as a Senior Teaching Assistant, bringing over 20 years of experience in secondary education, with a focus on inclusion and behaviour support.

Her previous roles include Student Support Centre Manager, Complex Case Co Ordinator and Emotional Wellbeing Practitioner, working closely with CAMHS, MAST and other external agencies. She has also been a Young Carers Advocate, ensuring student voice remains central to her practice.

Bridget studied Fine Art at Manchester and Sheffield Polytechnics, graduating with a BA (Hons).

Outside school, she enjoys camping, walking, gardening and wildlife. She also has two dogs and an allotment.