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Members
Members play a vital role in the governance of the Trust by providing independent oversight and ensuring that the Trust remains true to its charitable purpose and vision. While they are not involved in the day-to-day running of the Trust, Members hold the Board of Trustees to account for the effectiveness of its governance.
The Board of Trustees is responsible for setting the strategic direction of the Trust and making key decisions. Members support this governance structure by maintaining oversight of Trust performance, appointing Trustees where appropriate, and providing a strong layer of accountability. Their role helps ensure robust governance, transparency, and the long-term success of the Trust for the benefit of all pupils and communities it serves.
Kathryn Jones
Christian Park
Lisa Walton
Susan Simon
Mrs E Chandler
Member
Kathryn Jones
My name is Kathryn Jones, Member for Ribbon Academy.
I taught in Murton from 1994 to 2023 at Murton Jubilee Primary and Ribbon Academy on the Senior Leadership Team, always with a focus on inclusion.
Taking early retirement to become a Business Manager for a local charity, I continue to work with young people with disabilities.
It’s my privilege to return to Ribbon Academy, an amazing school at the heart of its community, which gives children the best opportunity to grow and learn together to succeed in life.
Member
Christian Park
My name is Christian Park, ‘Member’ for Ribbon Academy.
Having previously worked at Ribbon for six years, I am thrilled to be able to continue to contribute to a dynamic and vibrant school. Ribbon Academy is an incredible school, which offers all children every opportunity to succeed.
Since I left Ribbon in August 2021, to take up a Headship in Hartlepool, I know that the school has continued to grow, develop and further cement its place as the centre of the community.
I look forward to be able to contribute to life at Ribbon once again.
Member
Lisa Walton
My name is Lisa Walton, Member for Ribbon Academy.
I recently joined the Members to work as part of the team to ensure that ALL children access an inclusive, dynamic and enriched education whilst at Ribbon Academy.
Having previously worked at Ribbon for five years, I feel very proud to be part of the Ribbon team again, supporting staff across the school to inspire learners to be creative, resilient, independent and curious about the wider world and the potential opportunities that await.
Ribbon will always be a special place me…I left my position in 2021 to join South Tyneside Local Authority as a Head Teacher in an outdoor nursery and I am excited to continue to support the Academy in a different role.
I am very passionate about early childhood learning and development and my teaching career has predominantly specialised in the Early Years, ensuring that the early window of time, from birth to five, is used effectively to build the foundations for future learning.
Ribbon is without a doubt the hub of the local and wider community, always striving to provide families with the best possible care, support and education. I will do my best to support the school as the journey continues.
Member
Susan Simon
My name is Susan Simon, Member for Ribbon Academy.
I worked at Ribbon School for seven years, and was part of the leadership team when the school opened in 2006, after the amalgamation of three schools in Murton. Prior to this amalgamation I taught at Murton County School from 1990. I feel privileged to be able to return to be part of the warm, caring, hard- working and inspirational community of Ribbon School.
I left Ribbon School in 2013 to take up a nursery school headship, following my passion for Early Years Education. I very much enjoyed this post until taking early retirement in 2024. Throughout my years away from Ribbon I have been delighted to see how the school has developed and gone from strength to strength. I look forward to contributing once again to such a dynamic school and being part of a community which is close to my heart.
Chair of Trustees
Mrs E Chandler
I’m Elaine Chandler and have worked in Education for over 30 years. Until recently I managed a service for Durham Council, supporting parents and carers of children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
In late 2019 I retired from working full-time, but continue to work occasionally as an Associate for the Council for Disabled Children, supporting services nationally, to improve their practice. I also deliver regional training on SEND related issues. I live in Murton, have two sons and a daughter and two beloved grandchildren. Ava is in Y4 at Ribbon Academy. Both children love the school and so do I. I feel honoured to have become a Trustee and will do my best to support the school, staff, children and parents wherever possible.
Supporting Document:
‘Parents are highly supportive of the school, agreeing that their children are happy and well-supported.’
‘Early Years Provision: The provision for early years is rated “Outstanding”. The staff provide an exceptional range of carefully planned learning activities that encourage curiosity, independence, and the development of spoken language from day one.’
‘Personal development is “Outstanding”, offering a wide range of experiences that prepare pupils for success beyond the school.’
‘Personal Development: Personal development at the school is rated “Outstanding”. The curriculum provides a wide range of experiences that prepare pupils for success beyond the school gates, including educational visits and active citizenship opportunities.’
‘Quality of Education: The quality of education provided is considered “Good”. The curriculum is broad, inspiring, and well-thought-out, enabling pupils to build on their knowledge progressively.’
‘Behaviour and attitudes are rated “Good”, with pupils showing positive behaviour both in and out of lessons.’
‘Leadership and management are “Good”, demonstrating high ambitions for all pupils and a strong culture of mutual support among staff.’
‘Behaviour and Attitudes: Behaviour and attitudes at the school are rated “Good”. Pupils exhibit positive attitudes towards learning and demonstrate a strong understanding of the school’s values.’
‘The Ribbon Academy is rated as “Good” overall, reflecting high standards in various aspects of school performance.’
‘Leadership and Management: Leadership and management are rated “Good”. Leaders have high ambitions for every pupil, and there is a strong culture of mutual support and teamwork among the staff. The governing body and trustees are knowledgeable and committed to the success of the pupils.’
‘Pupils thrive in an inclusive, nurturing environment where their accomplishments are celebrated.’
‘Pupils feel safe and have positive attitudes towards learning, understanding and demonstrating the school’s values.’
‘Inclusivity and Nurturing Environment: The school is described as inclusive and nurturing, with high expectations for pupils’ behaviour and achievements. Celebratory displays showcase pupils’ accomplishments, creating a positive and inspiring learning environment.’
‘Safety and Well-being: Pupils feel safe at the school, describing it as a “safe spot”. There is a strong culture of safeguarding, with effective systems in place to report and follow up on concerns. The pastoral team works tirelessly to ensure the welfare of all pupils.’
‘The school provides rich extracurricular opportunities, such as “Ribbon Radio” and the “Poets’ Podium”, which help develop pupils’ confidence.’
‘Community and Extracurricular Activities: Pupils engage in activities like ‘Ribbon Radio’ and the ‘Poets’ Podium’, developing confidence and showcasing their talents. The school also runs breakfast clubs, after-school activities, and a community café, enhancing the sense of community and belonging.’
‘Early years provision is rated “Outstanding”, with staff providing a magical learning journey that encourages curiosity and independence.’
‘The quality of education at the school is “Good”, with a broad and inspiring curriculum that builds knowledge progressively.’
‘Reading and Literacy: Reading is prioritised, with an effective phonics program starting in the early years. Pupils’ love for reading is nurtured through various competitions and a well-stocked library.’
‘The school has a strong safeguarding culture, with effective systems in place to ensure the welfare and safety of all pupils.’
‘Reading is a priority, with an effective phonics program starting in early years, fostering a love for reading among pupils.’