School governance

Our Governing Body provides strategic leadership and accountability, working closely with school leaders to uphold standards, promote inclusion, and support every pupil’s success.

Our governing body

At Auckland College Independent School, our Governing Body provides strategic leadership, accountability, and oversight to ensure the success, sustainability, and continuous improvement of the school. The Board works collaboratively with the Senior Leadership Team to align school operations with our vision, safeguard pupil welfare, champion inclusive education, and oversee robust financial governance. The Board meets at least six times per academic year, with each meeting including updates on school performance, safeguarding, and finance.

The Governing Body is committed to

Setting a clear strategic direction and communicating it effectively across the school

Holding school leadership to account for educational outcomes, staff development, and pupil welfare.

Promoting innovation, continuous improvement, and inclusive excellence.

Working in partnership with staff, families, and the wider school community.

Reflecting on its own effectiveness to uphold the highest standards of governance.

The Governing Body meets on a half-termly basis.

Meet our Governors

Each governor brings specialist expertise and leadership in a key area of governance.

Anthony Akaraonye
CEO/Proprietor, Chair of Governors – Safeguarding

Leads strategic governance and chairs all meetings. Oversees safeguarding to ensure a safe, nurturing school environment.

Gillian Akaraonye
Proprietor, Governor – Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI)

Leads the school’s EDI strategy, ensuring compliance with the Equality Act and promoting an inclusive culture.

Francesca Ellsmoor
Executive Headteacher, Governor – Quality of Education

Drives academic standards, school improvement, and curriculum delivery across all phases of the school.

Luke Clague
Chief Financial Officer, Governor – Financial Sustainability

Provides strategic financial oversight, including planning, compliance, and long-term sustainability.

Emma Jones
Head of Early Years, Governor – SEND

Ensures high-quality SEND provision and inclusive practices, supporting the progress and well-being of all pupils.