I am a Deputy Head Teacher in a special school that provides education, support and development for pupils with severe learning difficulties. I have worked within the special education sector for over 25 years. I am passionate and dedicated to ensuring that all pupils receive an effective education and achieve success.

My 2 sons currently attend Ponteland High School in Year 9 and Year 13. They previously attended Richard Coates Middle school then Richard Coates C of E Primary school. I joined RCMS as a foundation governor just as it was beginning the journey to convert to Primary school. I have supported the school through many changes including joining the Pele Trust and moving buildings. I am proud to be a member of the academy committee and have been Chair of the committee for 2 years. My knowledge of SEND supports my area of responsibility within the committee. I am also responsible for safeguarding due to being designated safeguarding lead professionally.

I look forward to continuing to work with the staff, pupils and trust to ensure that all pupils at RCPS continue to shine.

Robin has been a trustee of the Coates Education Foundation since 2019 and represents the Foundation on the Academy Committee. He has served the Ponteland community for many years, including 14 years on the Town Council where he held the roles of Chairman and Mayor and has been Chairman of Ponteland Memorial Hall.  Robin brings a deep commitment to local education and community life, supporting opportunities for young people to learn and grow.

Having grown up in Ponteland and with a son currently attending the High School, I have a deep personal investment in the success and development of the school. This commitment mirrors my professional role, where I lead the Education Improvement Programme at the North East Combined Authority. In this capacity, I collaborate with schools, local authorities, Multi-Academy Trusts, and various stakeholders across the local education system to foster an environment of genuine opportunity. My goal is to ensure that all children and young people, regardless of their background, have equal chances to reach their potential and contribute to the region’s future success. I am proud to serve the school and leverage my regional knowledge to help strengthen positive outcomes for all pupils.

During Covid we made the decision to move to Northumberland. After researching different areas and schools we decided on Ponteland and on first viewing we loved the friendly and calming environment at Richard Coates. Both my children (Son in Year 3 and Daughter in Year 1) are loving school life, especially the amazing teachers. 

I applied to be a Governor as I’m passionate about making our school the best it can be. 

I’m proud to be part (all be it a small part) of this fantastic school and look forward to seeing the school continue to thrive in years to come.

I am the staff representative on the Academy Committee. I’m a Year 3 teacher and also the school’s SENDCo. I’m passionate about inclusion and pupil wellbeing, and I bring my day-to-day classroom experience to the committee to help ensure we’re meeting the needs of every child.

I’m Mike, a retired engineer from the electricity supply industry with a long-standing commitment to education. I joined the Academy Committee at Richard Coates in 2013 however I do have a long history as a school governor in Ponteland, serving on several governing bodies since 2002.  I also served as Chairman of the Northumberland Schools Forum from 2009. I am passionate about helping schools provide the best possible opportunities for every child.

I was fortunate to grow up on a farm in Northumberland on the Wallington Hall Estate near Cambo, where my family still farm to this day.  I graduated from Bretton Hall, The University of Leeds with a BA(hons) in Acting in 2005 and returned to the North East 15 years later. I have spent over 20 years working in the Creative Arts Industries and in Education; singing, acting, directing and teaching. 

Professionally, I am the Head of Drama at The Duchess's Community High School in Alnwick.

As a Governor, I look forward to supporting the school, ensuring the best outcomes and experiences for all staff and students. 

Rachel is our link Academy Committee Member for Relationships and Health Education. 

Mrs June Atkinson September 2023 to November 2025