Meet our Governors

Mr Alex Gale

Chair of Governing Board

alex.gale@smd.co.uk

NDEB Foundation

I grew up in Northumberland, near Rothbury, and although I have live around the UK, I definitely count Northumberland as my home. I have a son, who loves coming to Tritlington School, and two young daughters who already know the school and are desperate to start.

Professionally, I am a Chartered Mechanical Design Engineer for Subsea Vehicles (ROV & Cable Laying). I hope to be able to use my project management and problem solving skills to support the board of governors and assist Tritlington’s continuing exceptional performance.

Mr Paul O'Reilly

Vice Chair of the Governing Board

pauloreilly1975@outlook.com

NDEB Foundation

Originally from Hull, East Yorkshire, I studied at Hull University on day release, attaining an honour Degree in Chemistry.
I had a 24yr international career with Reckitt, holding various Research & Development (R&D) roles in UK, USA, India and UAE, including leading both R&D and Quality for half of the developing markets.
In these roles, I was travelling 40 weeks of the year internationally, so when family came along, priorities changed, and I took voluntary redundancy and returned back to the UK to be closer to family.
Natalie (my wife) and I relocated to Northumberland when I took up the position of General Manager and Vice President of a Research facility based in Alnwick. My youngest daughter was born here in Northumberland!
We have 3 children, all of whom have or will attend Tritlington school, and so I am keen to support the school and give something back to the community.

Rev Elaine Jones

Ex-Officio

revelainejones@gmail.com

I have served as Priest in Charge for the churches of Mitford and Hebron, Whalton, Bolam, Hartburn with Meldon, Netherwitton, and Longhorsley since December 2022. Originally from Fife, Scotland, and having spent part of my childhood in Cyprus, I eventually found my way to beautiful Northumberland via Derbyshire.
Before becoming a vicar, I worked as a Youth, Community, and Schools Worker, supporting young people from all backgrounds, with a particular passion for helping those who are disaffected find purpose and direction. With many years of experience in education, both in teaching and pastoral roles, I greatly value my visits to Tritlington School. I look forward to spending time with the staff, pupils, and parents—encouraging everyone to ‘Let their Light Shine!’

Mr Richard Restall

Headteacher, St Bartholomew's Church of England Primary School

admin@tritlington.northumberland.sch.uk

Foundation Governor
2024- present
Having taught and led in Good and Outstanding schools throughout the North East of England, Richard has extensive knowledge of primary education, alongside experience of both Middle and all-through schools. Being a member of the Newcastle Diocesan Board of Education, Richard has a good understanding of supporting church schools and, having worked in both church and community schools, knows how creating a distinctive ethos enables children to flourish. Richard is passionate about creating opportunities that develop children's character alongside their academic achievements, in all areas of the curriculum.

Mrs Alexandra Palmer

Local Authority Governor

admin@stannington.northumberland.sch.uk

As headteacher at Stannington First School, I work closely with the team at Tritlington First with both schools being members of the Font Alliance. I am delighted to also support as a local authority governor, working with the school community to ensure that the children who attend Tritlington First have the very best start to their education journey, developing an enthusiasm for learning and ensuring every one of their lights shines brightly.

Mrs Linda Fugill

PCC Foundation

Mrs Vanessa Gray

Staff Governor

admin@tritlington.northumberland.sch.uk

I am the school office manager, breakfast club supervisor and staff governor. I have worked at Tritlington First School since 1995 having previously worked part-time as a post office assistant and secretary for the National Institute for Agricultural Botany, I started my working career as an Office junior working my way up to a partners secretary for a firm of solicitors in Morpeth. I am also an active voluntary member of the Girl Guiding Association in the Morpeth Division area.

Mrs Jill O'Dell

Joint Headteacher, SENCO, Deputy DSL & Class Teacher

admin@tritlington.northumberland.sch.uk

As joint headteacher, I am a member of both our sub committees

Headteacher Governor

2024 - present

I am extremely grateful to work alongside the Governing Board, who are very supportive. They work alongside us to ensure we have clear, strategic vision for the school and that we are leading it effectively to meet the needs of our pupils, staff and wider community.

Mrs Katherine Stephenson

Joint Headteacher, DSL, Forest School lead & Class teacher

admin@tritlington.northumberland.sch.uk

As headteacher, I am a member of both our sub committees

Headteacher Governor

2024 - present

During my time at Tritlington Church of England First school, the Governing Board have been very supportive. They work alongside us to ensure we have clear, strategic vision for the school and we are leading it effectively to meet the needs of our pupils, staff and wider community.