Our Pastoral Team

Mr Atkinson - Deputy Headteacher and Designated Safeguarding Lead

Email: matthew.atkinson@bingleygrammar.org

My role at BGS has developed from the Head of Drama and teaching Dance, to now leading on safeguarding and behaviour. In between this I have also had responsibility for the Creative and Performing Arts, SEND and Pupil Premium and it is these varied experiences that I bring to the role.

With regards to me personally, I was inspired to be a teacher by my mum, who worked in the local area within primary education and my Head of Sixth at Intake High School (Now West Leeds Academy) who gave me the very best pastoral support anyone could offer. These two role models showed me how it is done! I have also learned from the many staff I have worked with while teaching. All these staff have taught me you need to look after the ‘small stuff’ to ensure the ‘big stuff’ happens and it takes preparation for this to happen.

So if you are struggling my message is to talk about it with someone whether that be a friend, family or teacher, they will then help you find ways to solve or improve how you are feeling. The more people this is then shared with the better, as people then understand what is making you react in certain ways and in turn help you find ways to solve it. Solving it won’t always happen overnight, it will take time and being patient is key, something I wish I had learned earlier in life.

Mrs Deborah Gibb - Assistant Head Teacher / Designated Deputy Safeguarding Lead

Email: Deborah.Gibb@bingleygrammar.org

I recently joined Bingley Grammar School, having spent the last 13 years working in an inner-city Bradford school, teaching English alongside roles as Head of Year and then KS3 Lead. I have worked with students and families from many different backgrounds and starting points, and enjoy building strong relationships to support students to gain the most from their school experience.

As a teacher, I strive to instil confidence in every young person, helping them to grow and develop. Every student deserves to receive the best education possible, and the support of both peers, families and staff is vital to ensure all students at BGS feel safe, happy and able to learn.

In school, I always recognise and reward positive behaviour choices, whilst offering support to those who need to improve their attitudes towards learning and others. Anyone can make a poor choice; it is part of my role to help students reflect upon these and take steps to make amends!

Outside school, I spend the majority of my time with my two young daughters; we enjoy swimming, singing and family days out!

My message to you is that if you are finding an aspect of school challenging, then please talk to us and seek support; we are always here to help with any issue, no matter how big or small.

Charlotte Mulcock - Head of Year 7 & Transition

Email: pastoral7@bingleygrammar.org

I started at Bingley grammar working in the SEND department following studying at university and completing a Degree then Masters in "Critical Autism Studies". I have worked my way up to being Head of Year 7 and thoroughly enjoy supporting all of the students at Bingley Grammar School, particularly our lovely Year 7's.

From being very young I have wanted to work in schools and education, I am passionate that every child has the right to education, no matter what barriers they may face.

I want all of our Year 7's to feel comfortable to come to speak to the team with any concerns, no matter how big or small, our office is a safe space for anyone that may need it.

My message is to ask for help; everything is better when you talk to someone. We are always here and happy to help.

Diana Blagg - Assistant Head of Year 7

Email: pastoral7@bingleygrammar.org

I'm a mum of two boys and a tabby cat called Ruby and I live in the Bingley area. I see quite a lot of BGS pupils around Bingley town whilst out and about so please say 'Hi' if you see me! I like doing art and craft in my spare time and I do the Myrtle Park Run when it's not too cold and rainy. I have worked with young people in different roles for many years and find the energy and enthusiasm of pupils at BGS make it a lovely place to work.

I have worked at Bingley Grammar for nearly three years and seen a lot of changes to the school day, the curriculum and the structure of the school week as the country recovered from the pandemic. I have worked with pupils struggling with all kinds of issues - having a teenage son (and having been a teenager myself!) I feel that I have some insight into the problems young people have. My message to you is... my office door is always open to anyone in need.

Nigel Bridge - Head of Year 8

Email: pastoral8@bingleygrammar.org

My background is Astronomy, Cosmology and Physics.

I have worked at BGS for 16 years in 6th Form and Year 10 & 11 but now in Year 8.

I have been working with the safeguarding team since 2017. I am currently one of Bingley Grammar Schools Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads.

My message to you is if you need help of any kind, personal or not, don't sit back and struggle with it let us help you.

Anita Faunch - Assistant Head of Y8/LGBTQ+ Lead/Young Carers Co-ordinator (Monday only)

Email: pastoral8@bingleygrammar.org

I joined Bingley Grammar School in 2009 working in various roles originally in the Attendance Officer and then my present role as Assistant Head of Year, in addition to this role, I was appointed Young Carers Coordinator, in January 2023 and also provide support for our LGBT community ensuring all students have a safe space to belong grow and succeed within our school environment.

I understand and recognise the importance of getting the right support for all our students individual needs, whether that's giving them time and a safe space to talk or liaising with other support services where additional help is required.

I am also a mum of two and with this I have lived experiences, knowledge and appreciation of the daily challenges of family life that parents/carers/children face and I do genuinely care about supporting and helping all our students succeed and reach their full potential and make school a positive experience and ensure there are no barriers to their learning.

Matthew Shuttleworth - Assistant Head of Year 8

Email:pastoral8@bingleygrammar.org

I have worked as a teacher of Physical Education for 15 years in Thirsk, North Yorkshire and spent eight of those years as a Head of year, from 7 through to 11. I was educated at South Craven School and have a degree in Sports Studies and Coaching as well as a PGCE in Physical Education.

It has and continues to be a real privilege watching young people mature into young adults and achieve their potential. Education and learning is a real passion of mine and I look forward to sharing that passion with both pupils and staff and Bingley Grammar School.

Charlotte Day - Head of Year 9

Email: pastoral9@bingleygrammar.org

I love to learn everything and anything! This means I've studied a (slightly bizarre!) range of subjects. I studied a BSc in Anthropology and then a Masters in International Relations at Durham University, and then pivoted to teaching Maths and completed a PGDE with Teach First. After teaching Maths for 3 years at another secondary school, I made the decision to move into the pastoral team at Bingley Grammar School. Helping others, and making a positive difference to young people, is my passion and motivates me every day.

My biggest message for everyone is that it is ok to not be ok! We will all have our good and bad days and that it ok. The most important thing is to share how you are feeling with someone- whether that be me, your teachers, your friends or your family. However you are feeling, know that it is never 'right' or 'wrong'. It is our actions that matter. I look forward to getting to know you all better!

Hayley Hancock - Assistant Head of Year 9

Email: pastoral9@bingleygrammar.org

My background is SEND and I have worked as a Maths HLTA teaching within a special needs provision at Beckfoot Thornton for the past 10 years. Previously I was Assistant Head of Year 7 there for a brief spell, to which I have now taken on the same role here at Bingley.

I have a passion for helping students become the best versions of themselves and taking care of their needs. I am a very nurturing person.

A married mum of girls, I spend my spare time being a dance 'cheerleader' and supporting my daughter with her passion, whilst my stepdaughter loves to horse ride. Evenings and weekends tend to be dominated by these hobbies :)

I will endeavour to continue helping as many students as I can in education and my message to them all is, I am always here for you, a problem shared is a problem halved.

Jodie Clough - Head of Year 10

Email:pastoral10@bingleygrammar.org

My journey at BGS has taken me from Student Support Officer to Assistant Head of Year and now to Head of Year. It’s a privilege to work in pastoral care, where I can share my knowledge and experience to support our incredible students and be the best Head of Year I can be.

Before joining the school, my background was in mental health, autism, brain injury, and learning disabilities—areas that have proved invaluable in my role at BGS today.

My role is about helping students succeed, guiding them through challenges, and reminding them that nobody is ever alone at Bingley Grammar. Sometimes, it just takes a little courage to reach out. I’m proud to be part of such a dedicated pastoral team, where building strong relationships with students is at the heart of what we do. Knowing that we can make a difference makes everything worthwhile.

At the centre of everything I do is respect—respect for each other, for ourselves, and for our school community. This is something I always focus on and encourage in every interaction.

My motto in life is: “Everything happens for a reason.” And the message I share with our students is simple: “A problem shared is a problem halved.” As Head of Year, my door is always open—no matter how big or small the problem may seem, support is always here (and there’s always a kettle on if a cup of tea helps too).

Hayder Ali - Assistant Head of Year 10

Email:pastoral10@bingleygrammar.org

I began my career as a primary school teacher, working across a variety of schools in the Bradford area. During my time as a supply teacher, I discovered a real passion for supporting students—not just academically, but personally—as they navigate their growth and development.

One particular experience for me was working at Frizinghall Primary, where I was deeply inspired by the pastoral team. Their collaborative approach and unwavering commitment to supporting every child, no matter the challenge, left a lasting impression on me.

I'm proud to now be part of the supportive community at BGS. Although I briefly moved to another school, I ultimately returned—drawn back by the incredible staff and students who truly make this place special.

My message to you is this: Respect is not something to be demanded, but something to be earned. Treat others with the same respect you would hope to receive in return.

Adele Roberts - Head of Year 11

Email: pastoral11@bingleygrammar.org

As a committed member of staff and a devoted parent of three young adults I consider it a privilege to continue to be part of the Bingley Grammar School family for over 10 Years.

In my role as Head of Year, I have had the opportunity to guide and support our students through their formative years. I believe that the heart of education lies in recognising the individuality of each child and nurturing their potential. My commitment to our students is to ensure they are confident, compassionate and well prepared for the challenges ahead.

My years of experience within the school have equipped me with invaluable insights into the diverse needs of our students to promote mental health awareness, encourage positive behaviour, and support diversity.

As a parent myself, I understand the trust placed in us by families. I am proud to be part of this community, and I am committed to continuing our tradition of excellence in education and value the trust families place in us.

At Bingley Grammar, we are not just a school, but a community dedicated to cooperation, respect, and continuous learning.

My Message to you is be curious, ask questions, and never fear making mistakes, for they are stepping stones to success!

Donna Frankland - Assistant Head of Year 11

Email: pastoral11@bingleygrammar.org

I have worked at Bingley Grammar School for over 18 years. I am a keen Burnley FC fan and love spending time with my friends and family. I recently joined the year 11 pastoral team and feel privileged to have been given the opportunity to support these students.

I am a parent to two teenagers myself so I understand the challenges they can face. I am here to help with any issues the students or parents may have so please get in touch if you need any assistance.

Paul Brown - Assistant Head of 6th Form

Email: pastoral12@bingleygrammar.org or pastoral13@bingleygrammar.org

Coming soon...

Anita Bradley - Years 12 & 13 Assistant Head of Year

Email: pastoral12@bingleygrammar.org or pastoral13@bingleygrammar.org

My Role at BGS is Assistant Head for years 12 & 13. I deal with a variety of things day to day and feel the knowledge and experience that I have gained throughout my work/home-life helps me support my students through these two very important final years of school.

So a little bit about me... I have been a volunteer for a drugs organisation that would travel around giving out information/advice around drugs and alcohol with no judgement, a pilot study that worked with kids at risk of offending which was extremely rewarding and "Womens Aid" which helped families who were dealing with domestic violence.

After graduating I became a youth worker for 7 years around the Bingley area including running the skate project, supporting young people to be involved in consultation & decision making around the things they are passionate about. In this role I worked with the young people to establish two youth cafe's one in Shipley & the one based below the swimming pool in Bingley Town centre which have both been very successful.

At BGS I started setting up the new behaviour support unit & then progressed to move on to my present role. I work with a fantastic group of staff who are dedicated to supporting the students in any way they can, throughout Covid and beyond.

So if you are struggling, my message to you is.... We are all here to help you, we look after the small things as well as the more serious issues. We all need a helping hand & our door is always open please get in touch.

Nicola Botka - Attendance & Welfare Officer

Email: nicola.botka@bingleygrammar.org

I joined BGS in September 2023 and I absolutely love my role as Attendance and Welfare officer. I have 10 years experience working with 11-19 year olds.

Every day is different, as I engage with students from across the school and meet our BGS families too. Helping people and finding the right solution for individuals is something I thrive in and I aspire to make school a better place for those who struggle to engage effectively each day.

I am inspired by the sheer determination I can see in students who want to learn, grow and improve and I enjoy being a cheerleader for those who overcome hurdles to make their education work for them.

If you need some support, a check in, a listening ear, I am here and I will help and support you in the best way I can. Please do not hesitate to come and speak to me if you see me around or at Student Reception.