Governance (ID 1183)

• Sara Fletcher
  Chair of Governors
  Sara Fletcher

  Sara brings over three decades of dedicated experience within the Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) sector, underpinned by a robust foundation in both teaching and strategic leadership. Her career spans a diverse range of educational environments, including general further education colleges, community-based learning settings, and specialist provisions. Currently, she serves as the Quality Lead in a specialist setting, where she plays a pivotal role in driving standards and fostering inclusive practices.

  A significant chapter of Sara's career was her eleven-year tenure as Headteacher of a school for pupils with Social, Emotional and Mental Health (SEMH) needs. During this time, she honed her expertise in therapeutic education and trauma-informed approaches, embedding these principles into whole-school culture and practice. Her leadership was marked by a deep commitment to nurturing resilience, emotional wellbeing, and academic progress among vulnerable learners.

  Sara holds a Master's degree in Consultancy and Leadership, which complements her practical experience with a strong theoretical understanding of change management, team development, and strategic improvement. She is passionate about empowering staff through professional development, coaching, and collaborative working, with a particular focus on building capacity to teach, support, and safeguard learners effectively.

  Her work is driven by a steadfast belief in inclusive education and the holistic development of both students and staff. Sara is known for her thoughtful, values-led approach and her ability to inspire teams to deliver high-quality, compassionate education that meets the complex needs of all learners.

• Jessica Charles
  Staff Governor
  Jessica Charles

  Jessica Charles is a qualified and registered Play Therapist/Specialist with eight years of experience working within the NHS, where she supported children and young people through therapeutic interventions. In March 2025, she brought her expertise into the education sector, joining East Sussex Academy Newhaven as the Engagement Lead.

  Jessica is deeply committed to creating inclusive and supportive environments for students, using a therapeutic and holistic approach to enhance engagement, learning, and emotional wellbeing. Her work focuses on helping students feel safe, understood, and empowered to thrive both academically and personally.

  She is also Thrive Training qualified, which further strengthens her ability to support the mental health and emotional development of children and young people. Jessica is enthusiastic about the positive impact this will have across the academy, and looks forward to continuing to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those she works with.

• Natsuko Callan
  Community Governor
  Natsuko Callan

  After completing a degree in Music, Natsuko has spent over 20 years building a career in financial technology, developing strong skills in strategic thinking, marketing and planning. As a mother of two teenagers, she has a personal understanding of the challenges and opportunities young people face today, both academically and emotionally. This perspective has deepened her appreciation of the importance of a supportive and inclusive school environment, where every child feels valued, confident and able to thrive.

  Natsuko is also motivated by a strong desire to give back to the community and is particularly passionate about supporting staff and helping to shape the school's long-term vision. She brings a thoughtful, forward-looking approach to her role as a school governor, with a focus on creating a positive, safe and inclusive environment that enables every pupil to reach their full potential.

• Richard Leighton
  Community Governor
  Richard Leighton

  Richard works as a Relationship Manager for social impact lender, Unity Trust Bank, where he specialises in supporting organisations across the Education and Housing sectors. In his role, Richard works closely with clients to understand their strategic aims and provides tailored financial solutions that support long-term sustainability, growth, and positive social outcomes. He has a particular interest in helping educational institutions and housing providers access funding in a responsible and values-led way.

  Prior to joining Unity Trust Bank, Richard spent ten years working as a Treasury Consultant to Universities and Further Education Colleges. During this time, he developed extensive experience in supporting institutions to raise funds, manage financial risk, and navigate complex funding and investment decisions. His work involved advising senior leaders and governing bodies, giving him a strong understanding of the financial and strategic challenges facing education providers.

  Richard brings a wealth of sector knowledge, technical expertise, and a collaborative approach to his current role. Outside of work, he is married with three children and lives near Hastings in East Sussex, where he enjoys spending time with his family and being part of the local community.