Local Academy Board Members

Our Local Academy Board Members

Our Local Academy Board (local governing body) was established 2019/20

If you are interested in applying to be a governor please contact Zakia Akhtar - Our Office Manager for more information. Thank you.

Mr Matthew Carbutt - Ex Officio - Executive Head

I have worked in education for 9 years, working in a variety of schools as class teacher and then as Deputy Head Teacher at Batley Parish CE Primary School. I currently work as an Executive Principal for Orcahrd Primary Academy and Brambles Primary Academy.

I am from Leeds and attended Leeds Metropolitan University for 5 years. I gained a 2:1 BA Sports Development and Education degree and then went on to achieved a Masters degree in Childhood Studies before completing my PGCE in Primary Education. Following my NQT year, I moved to Australia to teach and play Rugby League.

I was a semi-professional Rugby League player for 13 years, playing for Hunslet RLFC and Doncaster in that time. I have also represented The England and Great Britain Student Rugby League team on a number of occasions: travelling to Australia, France and Serbia in the process.

Mrs Amy Eagleton - Chair and Safeguarding Champion

I studied Criminology at University and went on to work in a secondary school as part of the behaviour team. Eight years later and I am still at that same school but now in the Safeguarding Team. It's my job to make sure all our students are happy, healthy and safe. I wanted to be a Governor of Brambles at this exciting time to learn more about the profession I am in but for a different age group than I am used to and to also give back to South Pennine Academies Trust who have supported me throughout my career. I'm committed to being a part of the ‘Brambles family’ and am looking forward to watching us grow!

Contact Details:

Mrs Amy Eagleton

Brambles Primary Academy, Cambridge Road, Huddersfield, HD1 5BU

Tel: 01484 240338

Email: office@bramblesprimaryacademy.org

Miss Morgan Quirke - Early Years Champion

My child has attended Brambles Primary Academy since its opening in September 2018. After leaving school I have volunteered and worked in various parts of the child and youth sector. I then became a young ambassador for the Princes Trust, focusing on the anti-bullying programme. I also trained as a teaching assistant and have worked as a teaching assistant in various areas of Kirklees. I also help to care for my dad who is disabled. I am passionate about learning through play and making learning an enjoyable and engaging experience.

Barbara Cunningham - Co-opted Governor, SEND and Pupil Premium Champion

I believe that education is key to giving children a good start in life and I am proud to have been given the opportunity to join the Local Academy Board for Brambles Primary Academy.

I have many years of experience of being a governor. I am currently the Chair of the Local Academy Board at Orchard Primary Academy, and in the past I have been a governor at Moor End Academy and prior to that at my own children’s primary school.

I was Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead at Moor End Academy before retiring in 2016. I previously worked for a number of years in the Civil Service before taking a career break to take care of my children.

I left school at 16 but have continued to engage in education and learning throughout my life, taking a number of day-time and night-time courses, leading to being awarded a degree in Politics with History in 2003.

I am married with 3 grown-up sons and 4 granddaughters, I enjoy playing badminton, reading, playing and listening to music and supporting Newcastle United.

Ruhee Javaid - Parent Governor, RSE Champion

I did my BA Hons at Manchester Metropolitan University. I then worked towards a Teaching English as a Foreign Language qualification and got my Teacher of English Diploma. I also have experience of several years of teaching in schools as well as tutoring from home. My eldest has been at Brambles Primary Academy since it opened in September 2018, and I’m delighted to now be a Parent Governor on the Local Academy Board. From day one I loved the staff, the Academy, and the way in which parents and the school became a close community like a family and how it made me feel involved. I am looking forward to watching us grow together.

Sophie Patel - Parent Governor

I hold a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) degree in Media and Popular Culture. My educational background equips me with a deep understanding of media and culture. In my professional life, I currently hold the position of Director at VIPuzzle Marketing. This experience has given me valuable insights into strategic planning and leadership.

Beyond my professional and educational background, I'm deeply committed to social causes. I've been actively involved in public speaking and advocacy to close the educational gap, ensuring that all students have equal opportunities to succeed. Additionally, I have lent my voice to the fight against domestic violence, raising awareness and working to create a safer community. I've had the honour of sharing my insights during my appearance on BBC News, contributing to the broader conversation on these critical issues on Mental Health.

Education is a passion of mine. I've spent considerable time tutoring GCSE and A-Level students, focusing on subjects such as Media, Science, and English Literature. This experience has allowed me to understand the challenges students face and the educational support they need.

As a dedicated parent and someone who values the importance of education, I am eager to serve as a parent governor. I look forward to working collaboratively with fellow parents and educators to contribute to the growth and success of our school and our children's futures.

Denise Juett - Staff Governor

Alex Foster - Staff Governor

I have worked in a variety of primary schools in Huddersfield for the past 12 years. I joined Brambles in February 2021 at the old building and have seen the transition to the new school which has been a fantastic experience. I have recently taken a new role as Learning Mentor and I am also part of the safeguarding team.