Our Governors

Mrs Linda Whittaker

Hi, I'm Linda Whittaker, a retired Head Teacher, living in Hanging Heaton. As a retired Head Teacher I have extensive experience of working as part of a Govering Body. I have also served as a Governor at another school for eight years where I was Chair of Standards Committee. I have lived in Hanging Heaton for 30 years and my son attended Hanging Heaton school. I believe schools should be at the heart of the community and that all who enter that school should be given the best opportunities for life long learning.

Mrs Mandy Farrar

My name is Mandy Farrar and I am the Safeguarding Governor for Hanging Heaton School.  I am responsible for overseeing safeguarding and child protection arrangements. I work closely with Head teacher and her Deputy to ensure policies and procedures are effective and meet statutory requirements. I am committed to promoting a strong culture of safeguarding so that all pupils feel safe, supported, and able to thrive in school.

Mrs Lindsey Towler

I have been a co-opted governor at Hanging Heaton since September 2019.

My background is in Primary Education - I was a teacher for 37 years and am now retired. I am a member and steward at my local Methodist Church and this plays a big part in my life. For the past three years I have also run a monthly Soup lunch there. I am married with three grown up children, two sons-in-law and three grandchildren. I enjoy helping out with the children and appreciate having a close family.  Since retiring, I have more time to dedicate myself to other things. The Governing Body plays a huge role in the life of a successful school and I love being part of the team at Hanging Heaton and being an involved and supportive governor. My Governor focus is History, Geography and Music as well as The Early Years Curriculum. I support the school in any way I can and have enjoyed going on trips, visiting the school to talk to subject leaders and children and supporting in the delivery of Key Stage 2 SATS.

 Mrs Kathryn Cutts

My name is Kathryn Cutts and I have been a Governor at the school since 2022. I have a background in education having taught in primary schools for 26 years – my last school being very similar to Hanging Heaton. The happiness and wellbeing of all members of the school community is important to me, and I am passionate about children being valued, supported and encouraged to be the best they can be. It is a joy to be a part of a school where these values are at the forefront, all underpinned by its Christian values.

Mrs Suni Daftar

As a current staff governor at Hanging Heaton CE (VC) J&I School, I value the opportunity to contribute to the strategic development of the school and to represent the perspectives of staff within the governing body. Through this role, I have gained a deeper understanding of how leadership decisions support teaching, learning and the wellbeing of our pupils and staff. I remain committed to working collaboratively with governors and school leaders to support the school’s vision and ensure the best possible outcomes for all children.  

Mrs Sarah Canning

My name is Sarah Canning and I am a parent of two children who attend Hanging Heaton School and they
are thoroughly enjoying their education here.

I work part-time as a Business Support Assistant. Alongside this, I coordinate and run a food bank facility at
West Ardsley Methodist Church. This role allows me to support members of the local community in a
positive way. I am an active member of West Ardsley Methodist Church, where I previously served on the
Leadership Team for eight years before stepping down in 2024. I continue to contribute through the Social
Committee, playing a key role in organising community and fundraising events.

Since my children began their journey at Hanging Heaton, I have also volunteered with the PTA whenever
possible. I believe Hanging Heaton is a wonderful school, and it is encouraging to see the many positive
developments taking place. I am passionate about supporting the school’s continued progress to ensure it
remains a nurturing and inspiring environment for current and future pupils.

Ms Louise Winder

Mr Tim Wildey

I am Tim Wildey, Deputy Headteacher at Hanging Heaton CE Primary School. Prior to joining the governing body at Hanging Heaton, I served as a governor at two other schools, one of which was a Church of England school.

Throughout my teaching career, I have predominantly worked in Reception and Key Stage 1, while also gaining experience across both lower and upper Key Stage 2. As a senior leader, I have held responsibility as a Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL) and have led key areas including curriculum development, behaviour, and collective worship.

I am passionate about supporting the school community and look forward to using my knowledge and experience to contribute positively to the governing body. I am also eager to continue developing my own skills and understanding of school governance while helping Hanging Heaton achieve the very best outcomes for its pupils.