Discovery Academy Council

Executive Headteacher

Luci Windle: 

I have always been passionate about working with children who have additional needs. My career began as an ABA therapist, which sparked my deep interest in Autism and shaped my commitment to inclusive education. Outside of school, I am a busy parent to two young children, and when I’m not ferrying them to and from activities, I enjoy reading and spending quality time with my family. I feel genuinely privileged to lead #DiscoveryCrew as Headteacher, and I truly believe I have the best job in the world.

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Daniel Shirazi-Nejad:

I oversee Teacher Development and Achievement and lead on curriculum innovation to ensure our students receive the highest‑quality learning experiences. I am committed to creating engaging, dynamic opportunities that inspire growth, curiosity and discovery across our school community. In my spare time, I enjoy being with friends and family, exploring new places, and getting lost in a good book. Dance is a real passion of mine—I teach dance fitness classes locally and strongly believe in the performing arts as a powerful form of self‑expression.

Darren Dickinson

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Rachel Kent

I have over 11 years of experience supporting young people and adults with autism and complex needs. As a parent of two children with additional needs, I bring both professional expertise and personal insight into family life, inclusion and communication. I am passionate about delivering high‑quality, inclusive education and have a particular interest in Makaton. I enjoy being actively involved in the school community and volunteer with Girlguiding.

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Parent Governor

Sarah Hill

My name is Sarah, and I am a Parent Governor with one child at Discovery Academy and another in a mainstream setting, giving me valuable insight into both specialist and mainstream education. I have a background in project management and collaborative working within the NHS, contributing to high‑quality workforce planning. I am passionate about ensuring all children receive an inclusive, high‑quality education that enables them to access the same opportunities as their peers. As a governor, I aim to represent parents effectively, understanding the challenges families face and supporting positive outcomes for all pupils.

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Parent Governor

Andrew Hogg

I have served as a Governor at two Local Authority mainstream schools since 2017 and currently have a child at Discovery Academy. Professionally, I work as the Equality Lead for a public‑sector staff association and have previous experience in safeguarding and financial management. I am deeply committed to supporting and safeguarding young people, particularly those with special educational needs and disabilities.

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Julie Hooper

I am a Parent Governor and kinship carer, raising my grandson who attends Discovery School. I spent 37 years working in Further Education as an English teacher, including time as Head of Department, before retiring shortly after my grandson was born. Throughout my career, I worked closely with SEN teams to ensure students with autism and complex needs received equitable, high‑quality support in mainstream settings. As a governor, I hope to represent parents and carers by drawing on both my professional background and my personal experience of raising a child with autism and ADHD.

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Staff Governor

Emma – Jayne Bennett

My name is Emma Jayne Bennett. I began my career in education at 15 through work experience at Kelford School, later joining the team on supply before moving into a full‑time role and subsequently working at Abbey School as a Teaching Assistant. I returned to Discovery Academy in March 2023, bringing with me extensive experience of supporting pupils with a wide range of needs. As Staff Governor, my aim is to support pupils and families in creating positive, enriching and meaningful school experiences.

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Community Governor

Vicky Brown

My name is Vicky, and I have worked in a special school for around 10 years, supporting pupils with a wide range of needs. I am passionate about teaching and firmly believe that every child has the right to a high‑quality education. I have a strong interest in SEND and believe that, together, we can build a brighter future for all our pupils. It is a privilege to serve as part of the Discovery governing body.

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Teacher Governor

Tayla Marsh

I’m delighted to serve as a Teacher Governor at Discovery Academy. With over seven years of experience in SEND settings, I am dedicated to creating fun, engaging and innovative learning opportunities for all students. As PSHE Lead, I focus on developing pupils’ life skills, wellbeing and mental health. Outside the classroom, I love spending time outdoors walking my dog, Willow, as well as reading and enjoying time with friends and family. I look forward to contributing positively to our school community and supporting our incredible students.

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