THE LOCAL GOVERNING COMMITTEE

For details of the Members and Trustees of Open Thinking Partnership please click here:

Members and trustees - Open Thinking Partnership

Trustees/Directors

Max Radley
I have over 25 years’ advisory experience within Financial Services.
I work for a National Building Society and I cover the Coalville, Ashby and Swadlincote branches.
My employer strongly encourages us to help local charities with many community projects and this forms a major part of their philosophy of building a stronger society.
I am married to Kim my wife and my children, aged 13 (and attends Forest Way) and 11 years old.
My interests are spending quality time with my family and supporting my children’s out of school activities. I enjoy cooking, gardening and also, as I am a qualified pilot, I enjoy flying whenever I am able.
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David Richards
To leave the world in a better place from where we last found it is something that has stuck with me for the last 10 years. I am currently working in a Technology Company and ever since my son was born it has resonated with me, but a lot more since he was diagnosed with ASD. I am forever grateful for the support and the community within in Forest Way and this has inspired me to apply for this role. I am applying for the role of Parent Trustee because I believe that I can fulfil that statement.
At work I also believe in human connection, breaking down barriers and creating an experience both for team and customer, enabling them to fulfil their goals. I currently advise leaders on opportunities that will better these experiences. I am also part of an Accessibility DNA at work which has helped me understand being fair and consistent to all with needs in and out the industry. Also, a personal goal for me is to drive awareness of sensory shopping hours to all who could take advantage of them.
Outside of work I am a typical family man, all frantically living our best lives in Coalville. I love to travel, sight see, play games and be there for those who need me. I am a great listener, which is why I love work so much. I love listening to people’s hobbies, interests, concerns and what makes them happy and that ties in nicely to a belief of mine, human connection. I would love to showcase these through this role: human connection and making sure we keep on trying to leave the world in the better place.
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Amy Harris
I have spent the majority of my career working within the brick manufacturing industry, with my main focus being on health and safety and staff development and I am currently an Associated Director of Health and Safety. I am a big believer in collegiate working, with all stakeholders as this is how we achieve our best.
I have two children, one of whom attends Forest Way. I’m a keen cook with a passion for interior design, I also love to dabble in upcycling and crafts.
Having a daughter at the school means I have seen first hand what a fantastic establishment Forest Way is and so it brings me great pleasure that I will play a small part in its future.
James Shanley
I have joined the governing body as a Community Governor, having retired from the Ministry of Justice after 34 years. I am delighted to be involved with such an outstanding school, where each day I witness a great deal of professionalism from committed staff and such enthusiasm from the pupils. I have been a foster carer for 18 years. All of my children attend the school. When I have some free time Wendy, my wife and I tend to go cycling and I am always being told off for fixing bikes in the kitchen. I have over 30 years’ experience of working with people with special educational needs and disabilities.
Roy Cafferty
I retired from HSBC Bank in 2011 after working for them for 41 years. At the time of my retirement I was a Senior Commercial Manager based at Grove Park in Leicester. I am married with 3 grown up children and 5 grandchildren. I also Chair the Leicestershire Board of Young Enterprise, a national charity aimed at providing young people with the opportunity to experience the world business. I am also a member of Bradgate Rotary Club and have been involved in arranging for the sponsorship of a number of individuals to attend the Calvert Trust, a residential outward bound centre in the Lake District. It was through this connection that I was introduced to Forest Way School. I was subsequently asked if I would consider joining the Governing Body and I look forward to helping the teachers and staff continue the excellent work that they do.
Gail Seaton
I have been Headteacher at Forest Way for 5 years and I feel very privileged to be working with such a supportive and committed team of staff and trustees. I have worked in education for over 25 years, this includes experience in mainstream primary and secondary schools as well as an international school. In my spare time I enjoy cycling, walking and occasionally some very slow running.