Our Members and Trustees (Governors)

Members

                                                 

                                              Karisha Moodie      Fouzia Farhan       Gaurav Grover

Trustees

Karisha Moodie - Chair of Governors/Community Governor

 

I’m a first generation Lutonian and have lived in the town for most of my life. I was educated at Ferrars Juniors school, then attending Challney High School for Girls and The Luton Sixth Form college. It feels like I have come full circle by coming back to the Ferrars school family volunteering as a Community Governor since 2016. 

Professionally I own and manage an information technology consultancy and work as Head of IT Service Management for a London Mayoral development corporation. During my career I’ve delivered technology transformation projects, operations and business change across UK central government and the private sector.

Prior to moving into the role of Chair I was Vice-Chair for three years and continue as Trustee and on the Board of Governors. Chair of Governors is a key role ensuring that the governing body sets a clear vision, ethos and strategic direction for the school whilst guaranteeing oversight of the financial performance and effective use of resources amongst many other responsibilities.

 

Committee Responsibility: 

Area of Responsibility: Safeguarding

Skill Set: Information Technology, People Management

Appointed Date: 26th September 2020 

Chair of Governors: 7th December 2020

Term of Office: 4 years - 26th September 2020 - 25th September 2024

Fouzia Farhan - Vice Chair of Full Governing Board and Audit and Risk Committee and Parent Governor

I am a graduate in Business Administration with vast management experience and substantial training which equips me very well for the financial aspects of the school’s functioning. In addition, I have also been a Parent Governor at another local school for a year. Working individually and within a team to achieve desired outcomes is another one of my strengths.

My prime interest in becoming a Governor is affiliated with my son attending Ferrars Academy School, which has made a profound impact on his emotional and academic wellbeing.

Committee Responsibility: Vice Chair Audit and Risk Committee

Area of Responsibility: Early Years, Assessment and Tracking

Skill Set: Business and Finance

Appointed Date: 17th January 2023

Term of Office: 4 years - 17th January 2023 - 16th January 2027

Gaurav Grover - Chair of Audit & Risk Committee/Community Governor

 

 

I am a Chartered Accountant working as a Senior Manager in one of the Big-4 accounting firms and have an experience of over 15 years. With a background in delivering complex audits for large and diverse clients both globally and in the UK. I have experience in dealing with complex sector specific accounting issues as well as financial reporting requirements for listed and other entities.

This is my first experience as a school governor and I am passionate about helping the school. I believe all children deserve a quality education to give them a great start to life, equipping them for adulthood, and helping them to achieve their dreams.

My experience has been gained in a wide range of industries and I will be able to utilise that experience for the benefit of the Academy and all stakeholders.

I bring a wealth of experience from providing internal audit, external audit and advisory services to my clients. 

 

Committee Responsibility: Chair of Audit & Risk Committee

Area of Responsibility: Finance

Skill Set: Finance, Diversity Management, Governance and Leadership

Appointed Date: 21st May 2018

Term of Office: 4 years - 21st May 2022 - 20th May 2026

   

Gary Magee - Community Governor

 

I am a Chartered Safety and Health Practitioner and assist over 50 organisations with their safety management systems.

I am a happily married 57-year-old with two adult sons. I have studied in colleges, The Open University and in distance learning.

As a lifelong student, I have a passion for education and actively promote good education for all children and adults. I see the position of trustee governor as a way of contributing to the maintenance of the high standards held by the organisation.

The knowledge, experience and skills that I would employ include:

• Extensive safety, health and environmental experience.
• Experience of many educational establishments. (I work in Bedford School & the mathematics faculty of The University of Cambridge.) 
• Abilities and interests in science, technology, engineering and mathematics.
• Practical abilities in mechanical and electrical engineering.

 

Committee Responsibility: Audit & Risk Committee

Area of Responsibility: Health & Safety, Science

Skill Set: Health & Safety

Appointed Date: 11th July 2022

Term of Office: 4 years - 11th July 2022 - 10th July 2026

 

Sabiha Laboni - Community Governor

I am an HR Consultant with over 12 years of invaluable experience in advising & coaching business owners/leaders in a wide range of HR issues across various industries. I am a law graduate and completed my masters in MSc Human Resource Management. In addition, I have completed level 7 CIPD to be a qualified HR professional.

I believe I can offer The Ferrars Academy a unique perspective from my years of experience in the corporate world. I have vast experience in strategic planning, developing procedures and guidelines while coaching and guiding business leaders; these are valuable transferrable skills that can be utilised as a school governor. Also, as an HR professional, problem-solving is critical, as I must provide solutions to many issues daily. It can range from day-to-day management issues to more complex conflicts or tribunals. 

I would like to contribute to providing the best possible education and educational opportunities for the next generation of young people while positively giving back to my community.

 

Committee Responsibility: Audit & Risk Committee

Area of Responsibility: Pastoral and Wellbeing

Skill Set: Human Resources

Appointed Date: 11th July 2022

Term of Office: 4 years - 11th July 2022 - 10th July 2026 

 

Catherine Ajani - Community Governor

I am a Civil Servant at the Cabinet Office, advising Ministers and Seniors on UK Constitutional matters. I hold a BA Hons degree in Global Studies and International Relations and a PRINCE2 Project Management qualification, with which I have previously worked as a Project Coordinator and Project Lead in various sectors such as Higher Education and IT. 

 

I believe through my educational and professional experiences I can offer The Ferrars Academy excellent stakeholder management, specifically considering the changing needs of the students, alongside that of the staff, parents and school board to deliver the best experience possible. I have gained vital transferrable skills that I believe would be highly beneficial to the role of a school governor, skills such as; strategic planning, policy implementation, reviewing of guidelines and procedures to reflect changes in business needs and industry trends.  I have experience in project management, planning and delivery which I also believe could be beneficial for the Board of Governors in planning strategically towards the Academy’s future objectives. 

I am a strong believer in ensuring all students have access to the best education.

 

Committee Responsibility: Audit & Risk Committee

Area of Responsibility: English and Phonics

Skill Set: Project Management

Appointed Date: 29th January 2024

Term of Office: 4 years - 29th January 2024 - 28th January 2028

Nazira Islam - Parent Governor

 

As a seasoned project manager with experience leading a diverse team of over 30 individuals, I am well-equipped to contribute effectively to the governance of our school.

My background brings a unique perspective, highlighting diversity as a strength and fostering an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and valued. In my role, resilience is key, and I have honed this skill through navigating various challenges and ensuring successful project outcomes. I am no stranger to hard work, consistently dedicating myself to achieving objectives and overcoming obstacles with determination.

My commitment to excellence drives me to continually seek improvement and innovation.

One of my greatest strengths lies in my ability to generate and implement creative solutions. I thrive on bringing fresh ideas to the table, collaborating with others to brainstorm strategies, and ultimately, enhancing the overall effectiveness of projects. I believe this creativity and enthusiasm will greatly benefit the role of Parent Governor, allowing me to contribute positively to discussions and decision-making processes. In summary, I am eager to bring my diverse background, resilience, hard work ethic, and innovative thinking to the role of Parent Governor. I am committed to supporting our school community and ensuring the best possible outcomes for all students.

 

Committee Responsibility: N/A

Area of Responsibility:  The Arts

Skill Set: Project Management

Appointed Date: 13th May 2024

Term of Office: 4 years - 13th May 2024 - 12th May 2028 

 

Jackie Moore - Community Governor

 

 As a resident of the local community, I have seen firsthand how the Academy serves the community. I am passionate about helping local children, many from disadvantaged backgrounds, reach their potential academically and socially.

I have 22 years of experience in education, mainly in Key Stages 1 and 2. With this experience, I have gained extensive knowledge of the national curriculum and teaching. As part of my role, I analysed assessment data, led and coordinated more able groups of children. 

I hold a BA (Hons) in Theological Studies.  I am a parent to three children who were all educated Ferrars Infant & Nursery School as it was then known as.

I am eager to contribute to the Academy’s success and further its mission as I now have the time and capacity to give back by serving as a trustee.

 

Committee Responsibility: N/A

Area of Responsibility:  

Skill Set: Data Analysis, Education, Community Involvement

Appointed Date: 27th January 2025

Term of Office: 4 years - 12th May 2025 - 11th May 2029

Tarikul Islam - Community Governor

 

I have over 10 years of experience in project management and data analysis, with a strong background in strategic planning, process improvement and problem-solving. Through my professional journey, I have developed the ability to manage complex projects, lead diverse teams, and deliver positive outcomes – skills that I believe are highly transferrable to the role of a school governor.

I believe I can offer The Ferrars Academy a valuable perspective from my years of experience in the corporate world, particularly in areas such as performance monitoring, developing processes, reviewing outcomes, and driving efficiencies. These skills are directly relevant to supporting the school’s leadership team in delivering its objectives and ensuring the best possible outcomes for pupils.

Beyond my professional expertise, I am deeply passionate about giving back to the community. I have served as a Trustee and Head Volunteer for a local charity and regularly support local causes through fundraising, events, and mentoring. I also have a strong interest in sports, particularly football, and have volunteered as a youth football coach, which has strengthened my commitment to supporting young people in their personal and social development.

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the Academy’s mission of providing an excellent education and inspiring children to achieve their potential, both academically and beyond the classroom.

 

Committee Responsibility: N/A

Area of Responsibility:  

Skill Set: Project Management, Community Involvement, Fundraising, Mentoring

Appointed Date: 12th May 2025

Term of Office: 4 years - 6th October 2025 - 5th October 2029