Governance

My name is Mel Barker and I have worked as a teacher for the last 24 years, 18 of those years have been in a Middle School. I am very passionate about Middle Schools as I was educated through the 3 tier system myself.

I am delighted to be able to share my skills and knowledge on the governing body here at Monkseaton Middle. Prior to joining the school, I was a governor at my own children’s school for 8 years, 6 of those I had the added responsibility of being Chair of Governors. I have a genuine desire to effect change for the benefit of our children and to ensure they receive the best education possible. My expectations of the school are high while remaining realistic at all times.

In my spare time I enjoy attending spin class 5-6 times a week and attending to my allotment although most of my spare time is spent supporting my own 2 children in their ever increasing out of school activities.

I am Duncan Phin, a dedicated professional with over 15 years of experience in analytics, culture, and engagement. As a father to a teenage child, I understand the importance of balancing professional commitments with personal responsibilities, which has significantly shaped my empathetic and nurturing approach in all my endeavors.

My professional journey is marked by extensive work with the Northern Learning Trust, where I have volunteered for over a decade. In this role, I have been instrumental in fostering strong connections between the business sector and educational institutions. My efforts have not only bridged gaps but also created opportunities for mutual growth and development. Through my work, I have facilitated numerous partnerships that have enriched the educational landscape, providing students with real-world insights and experiences that enhance their learning journeys.

With a strong foundation in analytics, I excel at interpreting complex data to drive strategic decisions. My expertise in this area has been pivotal in implementing effective solutions that improve organizational culture and boost employee engagement. My analytical acumen, combined with my ability to foster a positive and inclusive work environment, has consistently led to enhanced performance and productivity within the teams I have led.

I am passionate about leveraging my extensive knowledge and experience to help schools grow and develop. I believe that by applying analytical rigor and fostering a culture of engagement, educational institutions can significantly improve their outcomes. My commitment to this cause is reflected in my proactive approach to mentoring and collaborating with educators and administrators, always striving to create a supportive and dynamic learning environment.

I have lived in Whitley Bay for 35 years. I am a retired high school Science teacher. I have three adult children who were educated in the Whitley Bay pyramid and two grandsons at a local primary school. I was a parent governor when my children were at high school and served for 10 years as a Local Authority governor in a high school in the borough until recently.

I identify strongly with the ethos of Monkseaton Middle school and the way in which they seek to serve the wider needs of children in their local community. I am dismayed by the inequality I see growing all around me and am keen to do what I can to ensure children get what they need to thrive and find their place in the world.

I am also interested in curriculum development and, through that, broadening the horizons of our young people and helping to raise their aspirations.

In my spare time I am happiest helping to look after my grandsons and walking the family dogs.