Governance

Before retiring, David Gould was Executive Principal of Ark Boulton Academy, which opened in September 2015, and former Principal at Ark St Alban’s Academy, which opened in September 2009.  He was also Regional Director of Secondary Education for Ark in Birmingham.  As Principal at Ark St Alban's, David improved student outcomes over 16 years with significant improvements in GCSE results. His tireless and focused work resulted in the school being named as one of the country’s best schools on the value-added measure, with pupils making outstanding progress during their time at the Academy.  He also helped the Academy to build a strong community presence - forging strong links with Birmingham Central Mosque and with other local religious groups.  Prior to joining Ark, David was the Head Teacher of St Alban’s CE Specialist Engineering College. David was awarded a OBE for services to education in 2017.

Ghufran has worked in education for over 20 years and is currently Assistant Headteacher at a local secondary school (Saltley Academy). He has previously worked as a Governor for almost seven years at a neighbouring primary school, having held roles such as SEN Link Governor, Chair of the Finance Committee and Vice Chair of Governors. As a resident within the local area (and a parent of children at Ark Victoria Academy) Ghufran understands the determination of every parent to see their child fulfil and exceed their potential. He hopes to play an important role in further strengthening the link between the school and its local community.

In his spare time Ghufran enjoys playing football, cricket and boxing (although he says age is slowing him down!).

Mubarek is an undergraduate computer science student and intern at Aston University, assisting with various projects such as auditing the organization's sustainability policies and supporting efforts to become a more disability-conscious and inclusive employer.

Mubarek is also an Alum of St. Albans Academy where he was a recipient of the Marshall Wace Scholarship towards his university costs. The academy's motto of "giving back to the community" resonated with him and contributed to his decision on becoming an ARK Nominated Governor.

Thomas is originally from south Wales where he also completed his degree in Human Geography studying at Cardiff University. Following the completion of his degree he trained to become a teacher before moving to London and teaching at an Ofsted 'Outstanding' academy. Following his relocation to Birmingham he took up the post of classroom teacher at nearby Ark Tindal Primary Academy. Thomas has since changed careers and is now a train driver for an international freight operating company. He remains passionate about education and continues to volunteer at local primary schools during his free time.

Catherine has worked extensively with vulnerable children including those with SEND and EAL. She has managed and led on inclusion and safeguarding in numerous educational settings. Catherine currently volunteers at Samaritans and is undertaking a PhD in education.

Adeba has worked as an RE Teacher for many years in Birmingham, particularly where there has been social deprivation. She is results-focused with extensive experience leading and motivating staff and students in different settings. She is expertly skilled in assessment and progress and utilises exceptional rapport building skills to develop strong relationships with students and staff.

Aisha Khan is a mother of three children that attend Ark Victoria Academy. Prior to becoming a mum, she worked as a teacher in London and Birmingham. She trained as a Citizenship teacher in London and worked full time as a Humanities teacher for six years. Subsequently, she worked as a Supply Teacher in London and Birmingham.

Since becoming a mother, she has forged a number of links with local community groups and is keen for the Academy to work with local organisations for the betterment of the attendees of the Academy and for wider society too.

Steve is a Senior Relationship Manager at Allied Irish Bank and is involved in several Birmingham and West Midlands professional business groups. He brings many years experience in business and finance to his role as Finance link governor. 

Samina is the Faculty Director of Science at Ark Victoria Academy and represents the staff body. She grew up in the local community and is an alumni of our primary school. She feels passionately about serving her local community that helped her become who she is today. Samina has been teaching for over 18 years in local and international schools teaching up to A Level chemistry. She wants to see our students become happy, successful pillars of the community.