John O’Leary – Headteacher

My name is John O'Leary and I am the Headteacher at Asterdale Primary School 

I am excited to work alongside the Senior Leadership Team and Governing Body to further improve Asterdale through fostering our shared 'Together we can' vision and supporting all stakeholders to uphold excellence in all that we do.

I have experience in curriculum development, assessment analysis and an interest in using recent research to further improve teaching and learning strategies including metacognition in the classroom so that all learners achieve their absolute best.

My teaching passions including reading for pleasure, being active and outdoor learning to enrich experiences wherever possible.

I have taught across all year groups and believe that all children can achieve personal and academic success in a welcoming and supportive environment. Asterdale's ethos and vision for education matches my own beliefs that all learners can strive for success.

I look forward to working in partnership to bring further successes to Asterdale in the future.

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Paul Appleton - Chair of Governors

I bring significant experience as a headteacher within the trust, giving me a deep understanding of education and leadership. Having moved from Newcastle-Upon-Tyne in 1999, I trained to teach at the University of Derby and have spent my career working in Derby. I am deeply connected to the local community and passionate about making a difference in the lives of children and their families.

Education has always been central to my life, not just professionally but personally as well. My daughter is a teacher, and my wife is a teaching assistant, so as a family, we share a strong commitment to inspiring and supporting young minds. 

I also have a deep passion for learning, particularly in fostering a love of books and the joy of reading among children. I believe that early reading is fundamental to a child’s development, unlocking imagination, building literacy skills, and opening the door to lifelong learning.

Outside my professional role, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, often walking with our dog. I go to watch Derby County play and I love the thrill of attending live music concerts with friends.

As Chair of Governors, I am committed to helping the school reach its full potential. I aim to work closely with children, staff, and parents to create an environment where everyone can achieve their best and where the value of learning (especially through reading!) is celebrated.

 

 

Gabrielle Hulse – Vice Chair of Governors

My name is Gabrielle, I am a Parent Governor at Asterdale Primary School. I work as a hair stylist and have been in the profession for over 15 years in numerous roles including Salon Management and mentor to apprentices, now successfully running my own small business.

Since my two children began attending Asterdale, I have become an active member and now treasurer to the PTFA, having a large part in organising events and fundraising for the school. It’s a role I thoroughly enjoy and find the impact that it has on the school and the children very rewarding.

Being on the Governing Board I hope to help our children and staff excel and succeed throughout their journey here at Asterdale by helping and supporting them to achieve their goals, and by being an approachable member of our school community.

 

 

Cari Burgess - Governor - 

My name is Cari Burgess and I am both proud and excited to be a Governor at Asterdale Primary school.

I have worked in primary education for over 30 years including 15 years as a Headteacher.

Currently I work part time as a School Improvement Advisor alongside being a school Governor in two schools.

I am really passionate about supporting the achievement of ALL children as well as children having an exciting and experienced filled educational journey.

In my spare time I love reading (a habit I gained at primary school) ; being outside especially at the beach , walking our three labradors , trying new things as well as trying to keep fit through the gym and yoga.