Meet the Governors

David has spent most of his career in the local voluntary and community sector, and is the Director of Sutton Mencap. David is passionate about supporting people with a learning disability to be fully involved in the life of the local community, and the vital role education can play in this. David also has a particular interest in supporting organisations to work together for the benefit of the people they support. Having been a governor for Orchard Hill College for a number of years, David is delighted to Chair the College Committee.

I have been Principal of Orchard Hill College for five years. Before this, I spent many years as a specialist Lecturer in a range of educational provisions. I have a wealth of experience working with young people in both mainstream and specialist education and within the social care sector. I am driven by preparing students for adulthood and ensuring they are leaving the education system to achieve aspirational outcomes.

Ric is a parent governor whose daughter, Abigail, attends Orchard Hill College. Three of Ric’s five children have additional needs. Ric works as a Ministry Assistant at Sutton Christian Centre and before joining the OHC Committee was Chair of Governors at Bandon Hill Primary School. Among other things, Ric enjoys running, photography and getting involved in community events in Wallington.

Neil has been an SEN teacher for 25 years and has worked across a range of settings, including SLD, PMLD and mainstream (BRIT School, Croydon). He has been teaching in his current post at St Philip’s School for just under 14 years where he is the PE co-ordinator. He has a passion for sports and recognises the many benefits that a healthy lifestyle can give to young people with learning difficulties. Additionally he has a particular interest in Social Enterprises and would one day love the opportunity to set one up. He is currently studying an MRes (Ed) at Kingston University and has developed an interest in our young people’s aspirations. As a first time governor Neil is really looking forward to becoming involved in the College’s development.