Burley St Matthias Primary School

Elisabeth is a foundation governor, and is on our performance management, pupil support and teaching and learning committees. Her responsibilities include special education needs, child protection and children looked after and she is also our governor for reception class.

My son has attended Burley St Matthias Primary School since 2013 and I have been a parent governor since 2016. I am a member of Pupil Support and Resources Committees.  I have really enjoyed learning about how the school works and ensuring that the views of parents are represented on the governing body. I also work in this school as an EAL Tutor/Lunchtime Assistant. 

I’m the parent of a seven-year child. Currently studying for a Bioengineering PhD at the University of Leeds, I have over 10 years’ experience working and studying in the Higher Education sector. I am committed and passionate about our children’s education as it provides them with the skills, positive attitude and confidence required to allow them to thrive in their lives. I have the aspiration to ensure every child gets the best schooling and opportunities in life.

I have a passion for education and as a father of two young children, I am committed to having a positive impact on the education of children in Leeds.

I have worked in Higher Education since 2007 and have extensive experience in International operations within a university. My work experience in primary schools includes being a Peripatetic Music Teacher and a Learning Support Assistant, as well as organising summer fayres and other fundraising events. 

Kate Cameron is Co-Head at school and works Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday.  She has been at the school since 2007 and has worked in Leeds schools for nearly 20 years.

Debra Dettmar is Co-Head and works Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.  She has been at the school since 2013 and has worked in Leeds schools for 25 years.

Hahmiz Butt is one of our co-opted governors appointed for their specific skills, and is training to be a lawyer. He is our year 1 class governor.

I am the staff Governor and have taught at Burley St Matthias for 5 years now, four of which have been in Y6 and 8 months in Reception, after a year of travelling. I even trained here as a student, so I have been a part of our school community for a long time.  Being a Governor allows me to see our school from another dimension and I enjoy being part of the Teaching and Learning Committee as it's the area that I have the most experience in. 

I am one of the three city councillors for Kirkstall Ward, I became a governor because I have a passion for education of young people. In my other work I am Head of Geography in a secondary school in Bradford. I have a good understanding of the school environment and school improvements and can therefore provide the necessary challenge to the leadership to help Burley St Matthias deliver the best possible education for our young people.  

Nicola Underhill is one of our co-opted governors appointed for their specific skills. She is a Key Stage 3 leader at a high school academy in Halifax, sits on our teaching and learning committee, and is our Year 6 governor.

Yanne is an elected parent governor. Two of her four children are currently attending Burley St. Matthias in Key Stage 1. She teaches part-time in Higher Education.