Our Academy Committee
Our Academy Committee (AC) has a vital role in the governance of the Penrose Learning Trust. It is accountable to the Board of Trustees and supports the Trustees and Trust school leaders to deliver their responsibilities, and commit to the vision, values and strategic objectives of the Penrose Learning Trust. Visit the Penrose Learning Trust Website for a wide range of information.
Our Academy Committee- Is accountable for the performance of the school and ensures that the school follows statutory assessment procedures
- Is accountable for the curriculum of the school
- Makes recommendations to the trust about the school's budget and staffing
- Plans for the future development of the school
- Volunteers who make a commitment to the school
- People with a range of skills which make an important contribution to success of the school
- People who come from all walks of life and are of all ages!
If you are interested in joining the Academy Committee, please email our Governance Manager, cbarratt@penroselearningtrust.uk.
Penrose Learning Trust
To view Penrose Learning Trust governance information, please click here.
To view the trust’s audited annual report and accounts, please click here.
Committee Structure
The Academy Committee only has Full Academy Committee meetings.
Code of Conduct
Please click to access the Code of Conduct
Business Interests
Please click to access:
Meeting Attendance
Please click below to access:
Membership of the Academy Committee
Members
Membership of the Academy Committee (ID 1040)
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Ms Shamaila WaddleTrust Appointed Member (Chair)
Ms Shamaila Waddle
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Ms Petra Lahtinen-KalsiTrust Appointed Member (Vice Chair)
Ms Petra Lahtinen-Kalsi
Term of office 13/10/2023 - 12/10/2027
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Mr Ed VollerTrust Appointed Member
Mr Ed Voller
Term of Office 06/06/2022 to 05/06/2026
My relationship with Claydon High School goes back nearly 15 years. I have worked in the school as a Cover Supervisor and a teacher in the Mathematics Faculty. During this time I was also a Staff Governor and subsequently a staff member of the Academy Committee when it first formed. Since leaving teaching I have maintained my links with the school, currently serving as a ‘Trust Appointed Member' with responsibility for Student Standards, Pupil Premium and Transition.
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Ms Emily RueggTrust Appointed Member
Ms Emily Ruegg
Term of Office 13/07/2023 - 12/07/2027
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Mr Ed BrumheadParent Member
Mr Ed Brumhead
Term of Office 06/10/2025 - 05/10/2029
My son is currently at Claydon Primary and my daughter is expected to join in the future. I joined the academy committee as a parent member, motivated by a strong commitment to supporting the school in delivering high-quality education and preparing children for a future shaped by advancing technologies such as artificial intelligence. Professionally, I bring experience in technology leadership and business transformation across multiple sectors. I look forward to contributing my skills flexibly to support the school’s development and success.
Staff
Membership of the Academy Committee - Staff Members (ID 1363)
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Mr Mark IsmayStaff Member - Executive Headteacher for Claydon Campus
Mr Mark Ismay
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Mrs Donna O'ConnorHeadteacher - Claydon Primary School
Mrs Donna O'Connor
I am proud to serve as the Headteacher of Claydon Primary School, a role I have held since September 2024 after joining the school five years ago as Deputy Head.
Prior to joining Claydon, I spent the majority of my professional journey teaching and leading in London, where I honed my skills as a class teacher, subject leader, Deputy Headteacher and Headteacher.
My passion lies in teaching, learning, and curriculum development. I believe in instilling a lifelong love of learning in our pupils, underpinned by the joy of reading—a cornerstone of success in all aspects of life. Beyond the classroom, I am an avid traveler. In my younger years, I embarked on backpacking adventures, including an unforgettable year in South America. These days, my travels may be less rugged, but my curiosity about the world remains undiminished.
At Claydon Primary, I am committed to fostering a nurturing environment where every child is encouraged to reach their potential and develop the confidence to thrive to be the best they can be. -
Miss Beth ManserStaff Member - Claydon Primary School
Miss Beth Manser
Term of Office 07/09/2023 - 06/09/2027
I have been a class teacher at Claydon Primary School since 2020. I am passionate about providing our children with the best possible education so that each individual reaches their true potential while also creating and facilitating memorable learning experiences for all pupils. I am thoroughly enjoying my role as a Academy Committee Member as I feel it provides me with further opportunities to work alongside staff, families and our community to ensure our pupils receive an enriching and inspiring curriculum.
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Mr Richard PopeStaff Member - SENDCo for Claydon High School
Mr Richard Pope
Term of Office 18/12/2023 - 17/12/2027
I have been SENDCo at Claydon High School for fourteen years. Before that I worked in a number of high schools in the Ipswich and Felixstowe area. I have always been passionate about ensuring children with additional needs get the right support. Outside of school I am a local Councillor serving on Ipswich Borough Council. I have in the past been a director of a number of local charities and I currently sit on the Fair Trade Steering Group in Ipswich.
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Ms Julie NichollsStaff Member - Claydon High School
Ms Julie Nicholls
Term of Office 20/09/2023 - 19/09/2027