Academy Council

The Academy Council plays a vital role in the governance and accountability of West Ashton and is comprised of Governors who want to make a positive contribution to the school community.

Click here to learn more about Acorn and West Ashton's governance.

Meet our Academy Council

As Council Members, we are also the protectors of its ethos and it is our duty to ensure that every child can achieve his or her full potential in a safe and caring environment.

Alex Thwaite - Headteacher

I am a member of the Academy Council in my role as Head Teacher of West Ashton CE Primary School. I joined West Ashton in April 2018 as the Year 3/4/5 class teacher. I then taught Year 5/6 until I became the Head.

I am a mum of four who are all in higher or further education currently. In my spare time I am an avid reader and traveller.

Chair of Academy Council

To be confirmed at next Academy Council meeting.

Jade Ashdown - Safeguarding Governor

I am excited to be joining West Ashton School this year as a Class Teacher, Senco and Safeguarding Governor after 10 years of teaching from Reception through to Key Stage 2 in a previous school within the Trust. I have previously led the implementation of a new phonics & early reading programme then designed and led a whole school approach to a new English curriculum.

I left university after graduating with a degree in Law before becoming a mother to three children and four dogs! At home we love the great outdoors and I’m a personal fan of children’s literature.

Natalie Hillman - Foundation Governor

I am a Foundation Governor and live in Hilperton. I am married and we have one daughter at West Ashton School. As a Foundation Governor, I am a Christian and support the Christian ethos and vision of the school and link with the Church. I also advise on marketing and communications for the school.

I am a marketing manager for a local law firm and have run my own marketing business for the last five years. I have worked in educational marketing (further education, higher education and independent education) for the most part of my career

In my spare time I am a keen photographer and love to explore Wiltshire with my family.

Rebecca Morris - Foundation Governor

I joined the Academy Council as a Governor in 2023 and I live in Trowbridge. I am married and we have 2 children at West Ashton School.

I am also a member of the Friends of West Ashton School.

I work in Inclusion and Diversity within an adult education setting and also have an interest in mental health and wellbeing.

I'm my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family, reading and art.

Natasha Bristow - Foundation Governor

Hello.

My name is Natasha Bristow and since June 2024 I have been a Foundation Governor at West Ashton school. I have been a volunteer mentor in several local schools including West Ashton for a number of years. As a practising Christian, I believe that each person is precious and unique in the eyes of God.

My role is to provide a link between school and church community . Having spent time in the school , I can confirm that the values and vision of the school are evident amongst the staff and pupils . I always appreciate the warm and welcoming atmosphere whenever I am in the school. I am excited to be a governor and hopefully to enhance the existing team.

I am married and have twins that are 20 years old. I love cycling outdoors and travel .