Governors

Foundation Governor

Term of Office: 2025-2029

Appointed by LDLT

I am married to Philip who is a composer and we have two daughters and two granddaughters. I was Priest-in-charge of Birstwith in the 90s and, having fallen in love with Nidderdale at that point, we moved to Summerbridge in retirement. 

Business Interests: None

Other establishments a Governor at: Trustee and Vice-Chair at Holy Rood House, Thirsk – an inclusive Retreat House with a difference 

Relationship between Governors and members of staff: None

Sandra Hayward

Foundation Governor

Term of Office: 2025 - 2029

Appointed by LDLT

I grew up in County Durham, married a southerner over 47 years ago and we have 3 children and 8 grandchildren. Having spent most of my adult life in the south I moved to Yorkshire seven years ago and love it here. I was a teacher of modern languages for many years and am a local preacher in the Methodist Church. I love learning and am an avid reader.

Business Interests: None

Other establishments a Governor at: None

Relationship between governors and members of school staff: None

Term of Office: Appointed May 2023 - 2027

Link Governor for Vulnerable Learners

Business interests: None

Other educational establishments a Governor at: None

Relationships between governors and members of school staff: None

I moved to Nidderdale from Norfolk.

I have 2 children; my daughter is currently at Nidderdale High School having left Dacre Braithwaite in 2021 and my son currently attends school. Like many other families in the Dale, our life revolves around the farming and shooting calendar. Our working team of dogs and various other animals take up much of our time, squeezed in amongst a lot of sport!

I have a professional background in Local Authority project management having worked as a Partnership Officer for various District Councils across the country. I have a special interest in art and have helped to deliver many art initiatives both in professional roles and as a volunteer for local charities and community groups. I am a strong believer that art raises children’s self esteem and self expression and love to see this incorporated into school life so successfully at Dacre Braithwaite.

Parent Governor

Term of office: Appointed Sept 2025 - 2029

Business Interests: None

Other Educational Establishments a Governor at: None

Relationships between governors and members of school staff: None



I have lived in Nidderdale for the last 8 years. I am married with 2 children at Dacre Braithwaite CE Primary School.

I have worked in both teaching and management roles in Education for over 20 years mainly in post 16 and love working with students and new teachers to support them achieve their potential. My degree was in Biology with a master’s in educational policy and practice, my academic interest focusing on addressing educational disadvantage.

I enjoy good food, good wine and good books as well as spending time out walking with my family and our dog.I have lived in Nidderdale for the last 8 years. I am married with 2 children at Dacre Braithwaite CE Primary School.

Steve Langford

Foundation Governor

Term of Office: 2025 - 2029

Appointed by LDLT

I was born in Cheshire but have lived in parts of Yorkshire for over twenty years. We have recently moved back to Yorkshire, (after living in Chester) and have settled in Nidderdale which feels very much like coming home.

I am married with two children and two grandchildren. We live in Dacre Banks with our two dogs.

I have a background in Business Management and worked for twenty seven years for a European Multinational Company before retirement.

Hobbies: Family, Hill Walking, Theatre, Reading, Family History and Investment.

Business Interests: None

Other establishments a Governor at: None

Relationship between governors and members of school staff: None