Governance

Daniel has 20 years’ experience as a senior member of UK Law Enforcement, leading teams nationally and internationally. His last role was directing a major national digital transformation programme. He now is the business lead for Europe in an AI company.  Daniel studied Zoology and postgraduate studies including an MBA. He lives locally with 3 children, who have all attended Ark Byron. He is passionate about Ark Byron and delighted to be the Chair of Governors.

Courtney Gainer is passionate about education, having served as both a management consultant to and an executive within schools and universities.  Courtney is currently the Head of Student Success at Purposeful Ventures, which is focused on building organisations that help young people reach their true potential.  Courtney was seconded to Ark Schools a decade ago and is delighted to now be a Governor at Ark Byron.

Onome studied English and Media Arts at St Mary's University and went on to lend her creativity to businesses, brands and Local Authorities.  As a writer and media artist, she's applied the skills acquired whilst studying for her MA in Creative Writing to her multi-brand campaign pieces; appreciated by the likes of GAP, Marks & Spencer, Sharpie, Chicago Town Pizza, L'Atelier Robuchon Mayfair and Hellman's to name but a few.  Both of her children are Ark pupils and her focus is on enrichment and the pursuit of excellence.

Phoebe is a passionate educator. She has worked in London schools for over 10 years. Phoebe now trains new teachers at Ark Teacher Training. Before this, she worked at King Solomon Academy, an Ark all through school in Paddington, as Assistant Principal with responsibility for teaching and learning. Her interests include responsive teaching, teacher development and developing evidence informed practice in school. She has a two-year old daughter. 

With over 15 years of experience in a youth organisation, Carina has held various leadership roles, currently serving as the Cadet Executive Officer. She champions a child-centred culture that prioritises safety, happiness, and well-being. As Safeguarding Lead, Carina is responsible for implementing and monitoring robust safeguarding policies and practices. Her optimistic attitude fosters a respectful and inclusive team culture Carina is driven by a passion for uniting communities and preparing young people for the future through high-quality programmes that ignite their passion and purpose. She is dedicated to boosting aspirations in an inclusive environment where young voices are heard, recognised, and empowered. Carina continuously strives to improve safeguarding practices, ensuring every child’s protection and development in a safe, supportive environment.

Adlyn Walton has been a Teaching Assistant at Ark Byron for almost 2 years. Before her work in education, Adlyn gained a degree in Musical Theatre and has trained at many drama schools across the UK. Since graduating, she has founded her own inclusive performing arts academy to make theatre more accessible for children and young people, especially those of ethnic minority groups. Adlyn is extremely passionate about the arts and has directed and choreographed almost 10 performances for Ark Byron alone, including ‘Bugsy Malone’, ‘Annie’, ‘Oliver’ and ‘School of Rock’ which was performed at The Barbican last year!

Jemma’s professional expertise is in business strategy, largely in technology companies, with particular experience leading large teams through periods of change. She studied English Literature as an undergraduate, has a Masters in Chinese Studies, and has an MBA. She lives in Acton with her wife Sarah and their children and has established a charity working with Afghan refugees, focussing on education and employment opportunities.

Rebecca has been a part of the Ark network since 2012 and a Principal since 2018. Since joining Ark Byron, she has introduced initiatives including five new pupil-led committees; half-termly outdoor learning experiences for every child and weekly coaching for all teaching members of staff. Rebecca is passionate about enhancing Byron’s whole school community by creating more opportunities for staff, pupils and parents to work collaboratively.

Rebecca completed her PGCE at the Institute of Education and has also received the National Professional Qualification for Headship. She is passionate about providing children with the chance to learn the skills and knowledge required to achieve excellence both academically and beyond the curriculum. Before teaching, Rebecca graduated from the University of Durham with a degree in Natural Sciences.

Outside of her work, Rebecca enjoys spending time in the great outdoors with her family.