Forwards Centre Local Governing Body

Julie Bruce

Co-opted Governor

Julie is a parent whose child has attended Bolton Impact Trust Academies. Julie is actively involved in the Who’s in Charge programme and Parent/Carer drop-in, supporting staff and families.

Rhian Driver

Co-opted Governor

Rhian has been the Head of School at Red Lane Primary School since 2016 when the school co-founded BASE Academy Trust. Rhian has an unshakeable belief and determination that all children have access to a high-quality education. Her passions are curriculum development, EYFS and inclusion. Rhian has completed the National Professional Qualification for Headship, the National Award for Special Needs Coordination and also holds a Post-Graduate certificate in Specific Learning Difficulties (Dyslexia). She is a Visiting Fellow for Ambition Institute and facilitates on the NPQSL.

Helen Hosick

Parent Governor

I am the parent of a child who attends the Forwards Centre. I have had such a positive experience that I would like to support the centre. I have personal experience with SEND, so I understand how important it is for every child to feel included and supported. I care deeply about wellbeing and making sure families feel heard.

Nicola Berry

Headteacher

Elizabeth Burns

Co-opted Governor

Elizabeth has a long-standing professional background in social care, education, and adult learning. She holds a BA (Hons) in Sociology and Social Administration, a Diploma in Applied Social Science, qualifications in Social Work and Education. Her career includes roles as a Social Worker, Youth Worker, and Lecturer, supporting young people and adults with additional needs. She has held senior leadership positions including Head of Department in Health and Social Care, Vice Principal and Principal of an Adult Residential College, and Head of Adult Learning in Blackpool. She has also worked nationally as an External Verifier and as a Consultant for Scope, delivering staff training. Alongside her professional work, she has a strong commitment to voluntary and community roles

Khujista Bhatti

Co-opted Governor

With over 16 years of teaching experience, Khujista is currently lead practitioner in teaching and learning at Smithills School. She has extensive experience teaching across KS3 and KS4, including supporting pupils with SEND and those facing social, emotional, and behavioural challenges. Passionate about improving outcomes for vulnerable children, she has a particular interest in trauma-informed practice, inclusive education, and flexible learning pathways. She brings strong expertise in strategic school improvement, staff development, safeguarding and wellbeing, and is committed to supporting positive outcomes for pupils and families.

Alexandria Edgar

Parent Governor

Alexandria is currently an unregistered barrister working towards completing her vocational training, with a strong understanding of advocacy, accountability and decision-making.  Passionate about supporting those who cannot advocate for themselves, she is committed to ensuring all children have equal access to education.  As a single working parent of two, she brings resilience, insight into the challenges families face, and a strong voice for pupils and families.  She is dedicated to promoting fairness, inclusion, high standards and effective strategic decision making within the school.