Welcome from the Chair of the Academy Council.
My name is Holly Dyer, and I am honoured to serve as Chair of the Academy Council at St Martins.
Having been a member of the Academy Council for the past eight years, I have had the privilege of watching St Martins grow and evolve while remaining true to what makes it so special: its unwavering commitment to children and young people. Time and again, I have seen staff go above and beyond to support students, celebrate their successes and help them overcome challenges. The culture of care, ambition and genuine connection at St Martins is unlike anything I have experienced elsewhere, and it is a privilege to be a part of.
As Chair, my role is to work alongside fellow governors, school leaders, staff, families and our wider community to support the strategic direction of the school, ensuring that St Martins continues to provide the highest standards of education, care and opportunity. Effective governance is about both support and challenge, helping to ensure that every decision made remains focused on what is best for our community.
My passion for inclusion is both personal and professional. Having studied Education Studies (SEND pathway) BA (Hons), I have dedicated my career to creating opportunities for learners and removing barriers to success. I am also neurodivergent, having been diagnosed with ADHD and ASD later in life.
I currently work at the University of Derby as a Senior Engagement and Achievement Officer, focusing on improving outcomes and experiences for students, particularly those from underrepresented groups. A key part of my work involves championing student voice and helping learners to influence or co-create their own educational journeys. I have developed strategic leadership experience through work relating to access and participation, student transition, retention, learning and teaching, academic transformation, and quality enhancement. I am also a Neurodiversity Champion, supporting colleagues to develop greater understanding and embed more inclusive practices across the university.
My priorities as Chair are twofold. I am committed to ensuring that St Martins continues to be a strong voice for its students and families, advocating for positive change and championing inclusion at a wider strategic level. Additionally, I am passionate about ensuring that every student is equipped with the skills, confidence, strategies and support they need not only to thrive in school, but to navigate life beyond it.
I firmly believe that the success of St Martins is built on collaboration, trust and listening to the voices of our students, families and staff. Together, we can continue to build on the school's many strengths while embracing new opportunities for growth, innovation and excellence.
Holly Dyer
Chair of St Martins Academy Council
“Governors are hugely proud of their school and have very high aspirations. They regularly challenge leaders to ensure that the quality of teaching and pupils’ rates of progress remain outstanding.”
– Ofsted 2017
