Governance
The governing board is the College’s legally accountable body and must operate in the best interests of the College. Effective governance is a vital aspect of school leadership.
The Role of a College Governor
To contribute to the work of the governing board in ensuring high standards of achievement for all children and young people in the College by:
- ensuring clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction
- holding senior leaders to account for the educational performance of the organisation and its pupils, and the performance management of staff
- overseeing the financial performance of the organisation and making sure its money is well spent
The College welcomes applications from prospective new governors at any time of year. You do not need to be experienced in the field of education; enthusiasm and interest are far more important. Governors also often bring experience and knowledge from other fields to their work in governance.
If you are interested in joining the governing board, please read the role description and contact the Clerk to Governors Mr John Halshaw on 01282 695544 or john.halshaw@govsupport.co.uk
The Governing Body and its Committees
As well as the Full Board, the Governing Body of Unity College has three committees:
- Curriculum, Learning and Teaching
- Community Partnerships
- Resources and Finance
Lucy Whitehall (Vice Chair of Governors)
I bring 24 years of experience in the Civil Service, working in roles that demand fairness, accountability, and strong communication. I am deeply committed to supporting children and their learning. As a governor, I aim to use my public service experience, strategic thinking, and care for the community to help ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive.
Debbie Albanese-Quigley
I have been a serving civil servant for over 25 years and also work at the local football club. I have one child who currently attends Unity College. Through my involvement as parent governor, I want to have a positive impact to ensure that the College continues to perform and maintain high standards.
Eric Boothman
I am a retired college lecturer in Accounting, having taught on various courses. I was also programme leader for Accounting and a member of the Business School Management Team. As a former pupil at Burnley Technical High School, I have always taken an interest in events at Unity College.
Rob Browning
I am a recently retired secondary school Headteacher who is passionate about supporting young people in Burnley to build successful and hopeful futures. First as a geography teacher and then as a leader in schools, I have worked in eight different secondary schools across the North of England, so I have a wide range of experiences to help to support Unity College.
Hayley Crampton
I work for Lancashire County Council within Adult Social Care. I am committed and hard working.
Kelly Forrest
A Chartered Fellow member of CIPD, I have worked in a variety of Human Resources roles for over 25 years, including 20 years within the education sector. I am currently working for a Multi Academy Trust and advocate that every young person should have the opportunity to achieve their full potential.
Shameem Hudson
I am Director of Personal Development and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) at Unity College. I have been in secondary education for 24 years. A common theme for me in these years is to want the best outcomes and experiences for our students and staff.
Father Roger Parker
I currently serve as the Parish Priest of Saint Catherine’s, Burnley, an appointment I have held for over 21 years. I have previous experience as a school governor in Manchester, and I currently serve on the governing bodies of schools in Burnley. I have previous experience as a Member of the Board of Finance in both Manchester Diocese and Blackburn Diocese
Tom Quigley
I am a Parent Governor who has worked in Local Government for over 25 years. I bring extensive experience of public service and community engagement, and I am committed to supporting the best possible opportunities for all students and staff at Unity College.
Caroline Shorrock
With 26 years of experience in the Civil Service, I bring a strong commitment to accountability, clear decision‑making, and the wellbeing of others. I care deeply about supporting children and their education, and I aim to use my professional expertise to contribute to a safe, nurturing, and high‑quality school environment. As a governor, I am dedicated to helping the College provide the best possible opportunities for every child to thrive.
Bev Worthington
I am proud to have been part of the Unity College staff team since its inception, having previously worked — and been a student — at Towneley School. With over 30 years’ experience working with young people in Burnley, I remain passionate about helping every student achieve their full potential. Seeing Unity College grow and develop has been a privilege, and I am committed to ensuring the school continues to provide the very best opportunities for all young people to succeed.