Meet our Governors
Benjamin Lynch - Chair of Governors
Co-Opted Governor
About Me
I am a Modern Languages graduate with experience of teaching in the UK and abroad. I have taught in all Key Stages from 1 to 5 and I am currently a Headteacher in Salford and have been a governor in both secondary and primary settings.
Andy White
Local Authority Governor - Vice Chair
About Me
Hi, my name is Andy White, and I have worked in Parking Management on behalf of Manchester City Council for almost 20 years now but have had a career in Retail Management and the Police Service prior to that.
I’m married with two children, and we live in Milnrow just outside Rochdale in Greater Manchester.
I have two dogs and like to walk in the Hills above Wardle as often as I can, and after that it’s the occasional night out and general family time.
Naeema Kassam
Co-Opted Governor
About Me
My name is Naeema Kassam and I am an A level Business teacher with over 10 years teaching experience in the FE and secondary sector. I also have a Master’s qualification in Education, Leadership and Management. I am looking forward to working with the governing body.
Rachel Jacques
Headteacher
About Me
My name is Rachel Jacques, I have been the Headteacher at Bowker Vale since 2012. I am really proud to be the Head of such a fantastic school. I work with the Governing Body to make sure our school is the very best it can be. We meet regularly to discuss and evaluate what is happening in school and why and to check that these actions all have a positive impact on the learning of all pupils.
James Dean
Staff Governor
About Me
My name is James Dean, I have worked at Bowker Vale for 10 years. I started as an apprentice in Nursery and Reception before becoming a teaching assistant in Key Stage 1. I then completed my teacher training at the school and have since taught in Years 2, 4 and 6. I am proud to work at such a fantastic school and value the opportunities I have had to teach across different year groups and lead on AI innovation. As a staff governor, I enjoy bringing a classroom perspective to discussions and helping our school continue to grow and improve.
Maryam Janjua
Co-opted Governor
About Me
As a Teaching Assistant focusing on special educational needs, I bring twelve years of experience as a teacher in international schools, including three years as a principal from early years to high school in Turkish School. My professional background is complemented by a degree in Mathematics and Statistics. I dedicate myself to creating an inclusive learning environment where every child can thrive. As a school governor, I am committed to fostering educational excellence and helping our school continue to thrive.
Geraldine Simon
Co-opted Governor
About Me
Hi, my name is Geraldine. I have been a solicitor for over 40 years, specialising in family law. As a Community Governor at Bowker Vale Primary School, I aim to work collaboratively with fellow governors and the school to help achieve the best possible outcomes for all our pupils and the wider school community.
Adam Aziz
Parent Governor
About Me
I am a Data Protection specialist and have worked in the field since 2018. My current and previous roles involve implementing data protection programs, providing role based and targeted training, liaising with a variety of stakeholders, from data subjects to members of the c-suite. I am looking forward to joining the Bowker Vale Governing Body.
Sana Raja
Parent Governor
About Me
Hi my name is Sana. As a Parent Governor at Bowker Vale my aim is to work alongside the rest of the governing body in achieving the best possible outcome for our school and to focus on my special interest of supporting children with special needs.
Jen Griffin
Associate Governor
About Me
My name is Jen Griffin. I have worked at Bowker Vale Primary since September 2012 and am currently the Deputy Headteacher and SENDCo. I work with the Governors on a wide range of school issues and information, mainly around Attendance, SEND and Safeguarding.