Safeguarding
Information
Arbor
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 KS3
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.
Dina Hellewell - Assistant Head Teacher / Designated Deputy Safeguarding Lead KS4
Email: dina.hellewell@bingleygrammar.org
I am delighted to be joining Bingley Grammar School as Assistant Headteacher, having spent over 18 years working in a large inner-city Bradford school. During that time, I progressed through a range of teaching and leadership roles, including Head of Year, Achievement Leader, KS4 Leader and Associate Senior Leader for Pastoral Care. I have also worked as part of the safeguarding team and will continue this important responsibility at Bingley Grammar School.
I am a Design Technology teacher specialising in Product Design and enjoy encouraging students to be creative, solve problems and take pride in their work. Throughout my career, I have worked with students and families from many different backgrounds and starting points. I believe that strong relationships, clear expectations and consistency are at the heart of a successful school.
I would describe myself as hardworking, approachable and firm but fair. I have high expectations because I want the very best for every student, while recognising that young people sometimes make mistakes. What matters is that they are supported to reflect, learn and make better choices moving forward. I believe in recognising effort, celebrating success and never giving up on a young person.
As a leader, I believe that getting the small things right creates the conditions for bigger things to happen. I value honesty, kindness and mutual respect, and I believe that students are best supported when school and home work together. I will always take the time to listen and help find a positive way forward.
Outside school, much of my time is spent supporting my son with his football. We love eating out, travelling and enjoying everything each season brings. Spending this time together is incredibly important to me.
If there is one thing I would like every student to remember, it is that a difficult moment does not define who you are or what you can achieve. Believe in yourself, keep moving forward and, if something is affecting your learning, wellbeing or day-to-day life, talk to someone. Asking for help takes courage, and there will always be someone at BGS ready to listen and support you.
Adele Roberts - Head of Year 7 & Transition (Purple)
Email: pastoral7@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!
Amie Deakin - Assistant Head of Year 7 (Purple)
Email: pastoral7@bingleygrammar.org
Coming soon...
Charlotte Robinson - Head of Year 7 & Transition (Red)
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.
Matthew Shuttleworth - Assistant Head of Year 7 (Red)
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.
Khadija Raja - Head of Year 8
Email: pastoral8@bingleygrammar.org
I have recently joined Bingley Grammar School as Head of Year 8, following 16 years of experience as a Head of Year in an inner-city Bradford school. During this time, I have had the privilege of working with a diverse range of students and families, developing extensive experience in pastoral care, student support and building positive relationships with young people and their wider communities.
I am extremely passionate about supporting and guiding young people to achieve their full potential, both academically and personally. I believe that every student should be given the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their starting point, and that strong relationships, high expectations and the right support are fundamental to achieving this.
As Head of Year 8 at BGS, I am committed to creating a positive, inclusive and aspirational year group where every student feels valued, supported and encouraged to take responsibility for their own success. I want to help students thrive throughout their secondary education while also developing the resilience, confidence, independence and life skills they need to succeed when they leave BGS and take their next steps in life.
Outside of school, I am a proud parent to two boys who are both passionate about football. As a family, we enjoy spending quality time together, travelling and exploring new places, experiencing different cultures and creating lasting memories.
My message to you is simple: struggling means growing. When things feel hard, it doesn’t mean you can’t do it. It means your brain is working hard, learning, adapting and building new skills. Mistakes, setbacks and challenges are all part of the journey. Don’t be afraid to get things wrong — every mistake is an opportunity to learn and improve. So, when something feels difficult, don’t give up. Keep going, ask for help, learn from your mistakes and believe in yourself.
Donna Frankland - Assistant Head of Year 8
Email: pastoral8@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.
Nigel Bridge - Head of Year 9
Email: pastoral9@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 Y9
Email: pastoral9@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.
Charlotte Day - Head of Year 10
Email:pastoral10@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 10
Email: pastoral10@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 11
Email:pastoral11@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 11
Email:pastoral11@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.
David Moore- Head of Sixth Form
Email: david.moore@bingleygrammar.org 
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.
Emma Pearson - 6th Form Coordinator & Student Support (Friday Only)
I joined BGS in 2022 as a First Aid/Admin Assistant. My role then progressed to 
Medical needs officer, where I supported children with their medical needs on a daily basis.
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.
Diana Bellwood -
Email: diana.bellwood@bingleygrammar.org 
Coming soon...
