Chair of Governors 

Helen Francis

I am a local authority governor and currently the chair of the governing body. My daughter attends the school and I’ve been a governor for the last three years. I really enjoy the role. 

I’ve worked in education all of my life. I taught physics for several years and held a number of management roles in a large valleys comprehensive. I currently work for WJEC where I’m the faculty lead for maths and science. I hope I am able to use my skills and experience of working in the STEM community and the educational community to Bryn Deri. 

Vice Chair of Governors

Dr David Silver

I am currently serving as the Vice-Chair of Governors, now in my second year in this role. I am a Community Governor, having lived in Radyr for 29 years. I rejoined the Governing Body two years ago. This is my second term as a Governor at Bryn Deri, previously I had served for several years as the Chair of Governors before stepping down some time ago.

Although I am now fully retired, my career began as a scientist and progressed into scientific management with Amersham plc. I bring to the Governing Body a wealth of experience in financial management, project management, and the oversight of substantial budgets. I have also managed a broad range of HR matters. My leadership roles have seen me manage large departments, both in Cardiff and in the United States, giving me significant expertise in organisational leadership and team management.

Hannah Bates

I became a Parent Governor in January 2024 and am proud to play an active role in supporting the Bryn Deri school community. As the Pupil Voice Lead, I am particularly committed to ensuring that children’s views are heard and valued in shaping their school experience. With a professional background in Human Resources, I bring experience in people management and organisational wellbeing, with a particular interest in fostering positive relationships and inclusive practices. I am passionate about ensuring every child has the opportunity to reach their potential in a safe, supportive and inspiring environment, and I enjoy working with staff and fellow governors to help the school continue to thrive.

Laura McManus

Hello, my name is Laura McManus, also known as Miss Mac to the pupils at Bryn Deri. 

I am the Reception Teacher at Bryn Deri and LLC Lead. 

Jan Knowles

I was appointed as Clerk to the Governing Body in 2019. I provide administrative services to the Governors and support them in the strategic management and development of the school.

Angharad Thomas Richards

I am a local authority governor and have served on Bryn Deri’s governing body for 8 years. I have extensive professional experience in governance and education policy and have a interested in how Curriculum for Wales is implemented within the school and how we ensure equity for all our learners.

Gemma Bailey

My name is Gemma Bailey, also known as Miss Bailey to the children at Bryn Deri Primary. I have worked at Bryn Deri for just under 15 years. I am the HLTA at the school and the Non-Teaching Governor. My role in the school involves covering PPA and Management time for the teaching staff throughout the school and implementing 1:1 and small group Well-being sessions through 'Thrive', 'Lego Therapy' and 'Talkabout' programmes with targeted children. 

Katie Gibbon 

I became a parent Governor at Bryn Deri in 2025. I have 2 children at the school so have a personal interest in supporting its development and progress where I can. I have worked for the NHS for nearly 20 years initially as a Speech and Language Therapist and more recently specialising in supporting people with Motor Neurone Disease. 

Ian Russell

I am currently the Acting Head Teacher at Bryn Deri Primary School. I joined the Bryn Deri family in January 2020 as Deputy Head Teacher. I am passionate about creating the best possible outcomes for all our learners through collaboration with every stakeholder. I firmly believe that strong partnerships between staff, parents, and the wider community are key to success. The expertise and commitment of our Governing Body play a vital role in driving school improvement and ensuring high standards for all.