Safeguarding
Information
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.
Miss Cherelle Ashley - Assistant Headteacher for Pastoral and Safeguarding
Email: cherelle.ashley@bingleygrammar.org
After completing my degree in English Literature in 2015, I knew that I wanted to instil a love of learning and begin my career in teaching. For the last decade, I have dedicated my time to my three biggest passions: teaching, travelling and books! I began teaching English abroad in East Africa and then India and then returned to the UK and trained to teach in Bradford Secondary schools - a whirlwind!
For me, the students sit at the heart of every school and I am hugely passionate about making sure young people are given every opportunity to be successful regardless of their backgrounds or starting points. It is my belief that without my own teachers, I would never have had the opportunity to go to a Russell Group university or travel the world - In fact, I had never gone abroad until I utilised my qualifications as an adult! My school introduced me to libraries, to going to the theatre, to the feeling of achievement when you succeed. School, for me, was a home when my own home life was unstable and I am very proud to be able to provide that safe space for the next generation of young people.
Every student needs teachers who believe in them and respect them - which is why I chose Bingley Grammar as the school for me, believing wholly in their value of 'belonging'. Crucially, students also need the highest standards, they need to be academically challenged and in rigorous, but supportive, environments - I truly believe that schools are mechanisms to change the future and that children are magical young people who deserve our respect, but also our guidance.
My message to students is- keep going! You can achieve anything you wish.
When I am not endlessly waffling, I love to read, travel and listen to Taylor Swift!
Di Fountain - Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead for KS3 & Head of Year 8
Email: pastoral7@bingleygrammar.org or pastoral8@bingleygrammar.org 
This experience has given me a comprehensive understanding of the learning journey the children in our care take. I have also been provided with a unique insight of how when we work together we have the power to educate, support and nurture learners.
Having a direct impact on children’s learning and supporting their ability to learn has been one of my greatest achievements. It requires strength of character, energy, patience and of course, a sense of humour – all of which I have in abundance.In my current role as Key Stage 3 Behaviour and Safeguarding Lead my aim is to provide pupils with a host of positive behaviour habits that help them to engage in their learning, make good academic progress and build relationships with others.
My message to all pupils at Bingley Grammar School is ‘to believe in yourself and all that you are. Know that there is something inside of you that is greater than any obstacle’.Outside of school I enjoy interior design, listening to music and spending time with Vivienne, my long haired daschund.
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.
Hayley Hancock - Assistant Head of Year 8
Email: pastoral8@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.
Charlotte Day - Assistant Head of Year 8
Email: pastoral8@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!
Jodie Clough - Head of Year 9
Email:pastoral9@bingleygrammar.org
Matthew Shuttleworth - Assistant Head of Year 9
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.
I am keen to work alongside year 9 and offer assistance and guidance where I can. My message to them would be to take the opportunity that school presents with both hands and enjoy the journey!!!!
Nigel Bridge- Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead for KS4 & Head of Year 11
Email: pastoral10@bingleygrammar.org or pastoral11@bingleygrammar.org
My background is Astronomy, Cosmology and Physics.
I have worked at BGS for 15 years in 6th Form and Year 10 & 11.
I have been working with the safeguarding team since 2017. I am currently one of Bingley Grammar Schools Deputy Designated Safeguarding Leads.
My job is to focus on Year 10 and 11 and help them with any problems they may have. Mental Health, safeguarding, personal and pastoral issues are some of help students can speak with me and the pastoral team about. Not just students, parents also have help on hand when they contact us.
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. Exams can be stressful for everyone, this is normal and the pastoral team will help manage the stress or anxiety that most feel during the GCSE years.
Adele Roberts - Head of Year 10
Email: pastoral10@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 10
Email: pastoral10@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.
Anita Faunch - Assistant Head of Year 11 & LGBTQ/Young Carers link
Email: pastoral11@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.
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.
Diana Bellwood - Assistant Head of Year 11 focusing on exam stress
Email: diana.bellwood@bingleygrammar.org 
My Journey at Bingley Grammar first began in 2009 as a student here and after working in various roles with children of different ages, I returned in 2023 to join the pastoral team as a student support officer, working to improve the mental health and well being of all our students. As well as being that key person for our looked after children. Mental health is a big topic in today's society but it's important to understand mental health is a spectrum and we will all be effected at different times in our lives, there will be times when it is good and times when it is not so good, it is about asking for help and support when things are getting too much.
My role in school is to ensure anybody who is struggling accesses the support they need, whether that is a chat and a hot chocolate or more specialised 1-1 support.
Bingley grammar has a fantastic ethos and staff that really care about nurturing the next generation, not just academically but ensuring that we create well rounded, emotionally resilient young adults.
My message to you is always be Kind, you never know the battles that somebody may be facing. A smile in the corridor could change somebody's day.
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.
