Mrs Jenny Dalby - Chair of Governors

While I originally trained to be a teacher in the 1970’s I have spent all my working life within Social Services.  I had a number of posts during my career, including working in and managing children’s homes, and managing a social work team. I have always lived in Middlesbrough and my five children grew up here. I am retired now, but still like to keep busy. I do some volunteer work - including for a local Charity which supports Middlesbrough Children with Disabilities.   

I first had contact with the schools which later became Priory Woods during teaching practice many years ago, and as Team Manager for Children with Disabilities I had frequent contact with Priory Woods (initially while it was known as Carisbrooke).  I have seen the school grow and develop as it moved eventually to the building it is in now. I have always admired the school and the great work it does and was pleased to be invited to be a Governor. As Chair of Governors I hope I am able to work with people from a range of backgrounds to support staff in providing an exciting and stimulating environment where children are safe and happy and achieve their very best.

Victoria Banks, Virtual School Head Middlesbrough

Victoria started her career as a psychology graduate, with a focus on child development, cognition and learning and neuropsychology. Victoria has worked with schools throughout the North East supporting and empowering professionals to engage vulnerable children with their learning.

Victoria has delivered a number of training packages with schools and other key professionals to support vulnerable children to be successful in school.

Victoria is one of the North East Attachment Leads and advocates for pupils who have experienced significant relational traumas. Ensuring pupil’s needs are met in an Attachment Aware Trauma Informed approach is one of Victoria’s passions and she is proud to be working alongside Middlesbrough Schools to support them in gaining Attachment Aware Trauma Informed status.

Victoria has worked for Middlesbrough Virtual School for 4 years before becoming Middlesbrough Virtual School Head in July 2019

Mrs Louise Pollard, Governor

Louise is a data analyst and has worked specifically in education for over 20 years.   She previously worked for Middlesbrough Local Authority, where she used to regularly visit Priory Woods School.  Louise especially enjoyed working in the special and unique environment of the school and the company of the dedicated staff, so she was eager to accept the position of governor.  Skill set includes assessment, attendance data and various different MIS and data systems.  Louise is looking forward to working with the Headteacher, Chair and other governors to ensure the best experiences and outcomes for our children and young people.