Meet the Governors

After several years of industry experience across a range of roles, I began my teaching career in 2011 at Ruskin Sports College in Cheshire. During my time there, I served as a Business and ICT Teacher and took on responsibilities in the absence of my Head of Department. My duties included leading curriculum reviews, tracking student progress in ICT across the school, and ensuring the effective operation of computer systems.

In 2012, I joined The Garibaldi School in Nottinghamshire, where I was promoted to Head of Business. Under my leadership, the department achieved ‘Outstanding’ status, with ‘Outstanding’ academic outcomes. Notably, in the Level 2 BTEC qualification, 100% of students attained results ranging from Distinction* to Level 2 Pass—an achievement that established us as the highest-performing Business Studies department in the Mansfield area.

In 2018, I joined David Nieper Academy in Derbyshire, where I have held several roles. Most recently, I have been working as a Teacher of Business, Employability, and Finance, as well as serving as the Careers & Employability Leader. In this capacity, I have successfully driven improvements in academic results and significantly enhanced the school’s Careers & Employability programme.

In addition, I have been serving as a Co-opted Governor at Mickley Village Primary & Nursery School since Spring 2024—a role I find both rewarding and inspiring. I am deeply passionate about empowering students to achieve their full potential while equipping them with the skills and attributes necessary for long-term success.

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Helen Suffolk-Adams: Vice Chair 

Throughout my working life I have worked across the UK for organisations including the Probation Service, Civil Service, Local Authority, Financial Services and Education sector and this has really helped me gain lots of skills and experience that I hope to put to good use working with everyone at Mickley.  

I also have volunteering experience as an educational mentor and with NSPCC ChildLine.  I believe that children have the right to be happy and given opportunities to thrive.  

In my spare time I love spending time with my family, I have two sons, recently became 'Nonna' to my first grandchild, I am a passionate gardener and enjoy walking with my husband and wire-haired sausage dog Orla.  

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Karen Dixson: Trust Appointed Governor 

Having recently retired from a career in commercial finance (earlier days) and in education for the past 20 years. I am passionate that all children have the very best start in life and the best education for them. I have worked within local authorities and Multi Academy Trusts on the senior leadership teams as a School Business Manager.

I am really excited to support Mickley Primary School in the capacity of Governor and supporting the school community. 

Now that I am retired, I have more time, to do more painting, travelling, reading and walking. I recently became a grandma for the first time, so I love spending time with my grandchild and family.

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Ashley Greveson: Staff Governor 

With 20 years of experience in education, I am committed to creating a learning environment where every child is equipped with the skills and knowledge to feel empowered and to succeed. Since joining the team at Mickley Village Primary and Nursery School over a year ago, I’ve had the pleasure of teaching our adventurous Year 1/2 class. Prior to this, I spent my previous years working as a teaching assistant/ Special Educational Needs Teaching Assistant and Higher Level Teaching Assistant before qualifying as a teacher. I spent my first 7 years teaching predominantly in Early Years and have also taught across both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2. This broad experience has given me a strong understanding of the full primary journey and the importance of building strong foundations from the very start.

As subject lead for Maths, Early Reading and Phonics, Science, and Computing, I’m passionate about planning engaging and inclusive learning experiences that build confidence and curiosity. My degree in Early Years Education has shaped my belief that the early stages of learning are where children lay the foundations for lifelong success—and I’m dedicated to making those years count.

I want to be a voice for both children and all stakeholders, and to help ensure that every child is included, valued, and given the opportunity to be the very best they can be.