Directors Information

Gary McEwan

Director

Chair of Directors

I am currently employed by Interfloor Limited and have been for over 25 years, initially based in South-West Scotland but relocating to the Rossendale Valley over 20 years ago. Prior to Interfloor I have worked in both the MoD and Nuclear Industry. A Chartered Fellow of the Institute of Personnel & Development, NEBOSH trained in both Health & Safety Management as well as Environmental Management and a qualified DB Pension Scheme Trustee, my focus in the business is risk and compliance. As the HR and Business Improvement Director, I am strategically responsible for the HR, HSE and Procurement functions as well as delivery of our CSR and ESG Objectives. I am also one of the champions of our community engagement initiatives, 'InterActive' which is based on our 3 C's: Commitment, Careers and Community.

Julie Hayton

Director

Vice Chair of Directors

My name is Julie Hayton and I am currently employed as an English teacher at an 11-18 comprehensive school in Oldham. I have a teaching career that spans 28 years and feel that I understand the challenges faced by teaching and support staff. My son is diagnosed with ASD. He attended Broadfield School until he was 16 before moving to Tor View. He currently attends Valley College, where he is making excellent progress. I have been a Governor at Helmshore Primary School since 2001 and Chair of Governors for the past sixteen years. During this time I have witnessed many changes in education both in terms of the curriculum and inspection. I have taken on the roles of Literacy and Safeguarding governor and have met with Ofsted Inspectors on three occasions representing the Governing Body. I deal with any parental complaints that may arise, meet regularly with the Headteacher and other members of staff. I hope that my experience will contribute to the Governing Body team and I look forward to working with you over my term of office.

Ashley Collinson

Director

I started my teaching career when I completed my PGCE at the Embrace Teaching Hub, Rossendale in 2018. After completing my PGCE I was grateful to be offered a teaching role within the secondary department at Tor View School where I was subject leader for a range of subjects, including Humanities and Mathematics where I honed my leadership and curriculum knowledge. In October 2023, I was appointed as Assistant Head Teacher of the FE Department where I currently teach. Teaching at Tor View is always a pleasure as every day is different and exciting. In my free time, I enjoy reading, Formula One (Verstappen and Albon fan), and playing board games.

Kelly Swindells

Principal

I am delighted to introduce myself as Principal of Valley College (18-25 years), that provides aspirational education for learners with Special Educational Needs. My first role within the Trust was as an Assistant Headteacher with responsibility for Tor View’s Secondary Department. In 2019, I was successful in being appointed as Deputy Headteacher with responsibility for Curriculum and Quality. I am a Specialist Leader of Education, a SEND Reviewer and a Pupil Premium Reviewer and have provided support to schools across within the Northwest. I thoroughly enjoy working with the amazing team we have here at Valley College. Our mission statement, Preparation for Adulthood, Citizenship & Employment' is the driving force behind every decision we make.

Niamh Allen

Director

I’m really pleased to be joining Valley College as a Director. I work as a Managing Director of a local technology company that helps organisations create healthier and more sustainable buildings. A big part of what I do day to day is focused on the wellbeing of the people who use those spaces - making sure environments support comfort and engagement. I'm looking forward to bringing that same focus into my role at the College, especially around wellbeing and staff and student experience. My background spans business operations, digital innovation, and people management. I’ve completed a Chartered Management qualification, which has given me a strong foundation in ethical leadership and continuous improvement, skills I hope will support the governance and growth of Valley College. Inclusion is something that’s very close to my heart. I have family members with Down syndrome and autism, and that’s given me a personal understanding of the value of supportive, accessible learning environments. I’ve also been involved in inclusive theatre, which combines creativity and community - two things I believe are hugely important in education. It’s a privilege to be part of the team here, and I’m excited to support the College in continuing to do the brilliant work it’s already known for.