Become a Co-opted Governor at JTFS
We are currently seeking new Co-opted Governors to join our Local Governing Body. This is an excellent opportunity to support our school and help shape its future.
Please note: Due to the constitution of the LGB, we are unable to invite parents or staff to apply at this time.
How to apply:
Send your completed application form to Mrs S Byrne, Clerk to Governors via email at [email protected] by 12:00pm on Friday 30th January 2026.
Your involvement can make a lasting impact on our school community.
For more information about our governing body, please read their profiles below.
If you would like to contact the governors, please email the Clerk to the LGB at [email protected]
Gary has dedicated the past 15 years to his role as a management consultant, where he has successfully spearheaded Global Transformation programmes and projects for clients in the Agricultural and Construction machinery sectors.
Having spent the majority of his adult life residing in the local community, Gary is deeply rooted in the area. He has two children currently attending one of the schools within the John Taylor Multi-Academy Trust (JTMAT).
Beyond his professional and John Taylor Free School endeavours, Gary is actively involved in the JTMAT; he serves on the board as a Trustee and holds the position of Chair of the Achievement and Progress Committee. His extensive experience and dedication to both his professional and local community roles make him an invaluable asset to both the school and Trust.
Ian Burns is the Managing Director of Cameron Homes Limited, a privately owned residential developer; a position held since 1994. Ian has experience as a Local Authority Councillor working at both Parish and District level. He was a Trustee of the Armitage with Handsacre Village Hall and has lived in Burton-on-Trent for the last 11 years. Ian has a keen interest in supporting the transition of young people from education to the workplace.
After gaining his BSc in Psychology, Maherul completed his MSc in HR Management in 2019, and scored amongst the highest from his cohort in Employee Relations and Employment Law.
Since graduating, Maherul quickly developed his generalist HR knowledge and has risen to HR Business Partner working within the NHS.
Maherul also volunteers as a Community Development Coordinator; concentrating on empowering and engaging young people, in addition to running his own Arabic tutoring services. In his spare time, he is an avid reader and a huge football fan.
Louise has built a career as a data specialist, with extensive experience in education consultancy and data management. She has supported schools and Multi-Academy Trusts across the Midlands, helping leadership teams make evidence-based decisions through robust reporting, training, and data solutions.
Louise has a long-standing connection to education, having worked in school-based roles ranging from Special Needs Teaching Assistant to Data Manager. This has given her a well-rounded understanding of both the strategic and day-to-day challenges that schools face.
Passionate about community engagement, Louise also serves as a Trustee for Barton Neighbourhood Volunteers, a local charity supporting residents through volunteer-led services.
With expertise in education, data, and governance, Louise is committed to supporting the school in delivering the best possible outcomes for pupils, staff, and families.
Laura joined JTFS in 2022 as SENCo and has taken on the new role of Assistant Headteacher for Inclusion and DSL. Laura has over 20 years of teaching experience across Ireland, Gibraltar, and England. She is an Art teacher with a passion for creativity and has also worked extensively in supporting young people with special educational needs and disabilities. Laura has a strong belief in inclusion and in helping every young person to succeed and thrive.
Since 2002, she has spent her summers in America teaching ceramics at camp, where she enjoys sharing her love of the arts and the outdoors. She values the importance of enrichment and the relationships built with students through creative opportunities, and she brings this enthusiasm for inclusion and personal growth to her role as a governor.
Andrew is the Senior ICT Technician at John Taylor Free School. He has been working in the education sector for 15 years and has been at the Free School since the outset, having previously been the Network Manager at another Secondary School for over ten years.
He has a wide range of experience from his years working in schools and is looking forward to offering his input into the continual growth and development of John Taylor Free School.
In his spare time, he enjoys photography and playing the guitar.
With a PhD in Artificial Intelligence earned in 2005 and over 20 years of extensive industry experience, Ting has built a distinguished career across IT, manufacturing, and the food and beverage sectors. Currently serving as the AI & Tech Manager at Suntory, Ting specializes in driving innovation through online learning technology. His expertise lies in leveraging cutting-edge AI to enhance organizational capabilities and foster transformative solutions.
Beyond his professional achievements, Ting is a proud parent of two children in years 7 and 9 at school. He is deeply committed to supporting the school community and contributing to its growth.
Mrs Martin became Headteacher of John Taylor Free School in January 2026, following many successful years on outstanding senior leadership teams.
As Headteacher, Mrs Martin is responsible for the overall leadership of the school, the vision and ethos, and ensuring that all students are provided with the opportunities needed to succeed and thrive.
