Welcome to the Bream Local Academy Committee Section.

Our Local Academy Committees play a vital role in the life of our schools and the wider Trust. The Severn Federation Board of Trustees have determined that some of their functions are delegated to the Local Academy Committee as part of their strategic leadership of the Trust.

The Severn Federation Academy Trust are committed to having a rigorous standard of governance, and everyone involved with governance within the Trust agrees to uphold the Codes of Conduct.

The Local Academy Committee

The Local Academy Committee have a responsibility for delegated matters concerning Bream school; including the upholding the Christian character of the school, promoting ties with the outside community, stakeholder engagement, pupil welfare, staff wellbeing, monitoring the impact of the curriculum and stakeholder engagement. The Local Academy Committee meet at least once a term. The Committee Terms of Reference outline the responsibilities and duties of the Bream Local Academy Committee. 

The Local Academy Committee represents Bream school within the wider Severn Federation Academy Trust.

They are responsible for:

• Monitoring the Christian distinctiveness within the schools.
• Ensuring accountability.
• Monitoring and evaluating the schools progress.
• Monitoring safeguarding procedures within the schools.
• Monitoring and promoting links between the schools and the local parish, parents and local community.
• Ensuring the highest possible standards are set, achieved and maintained in the schools.
• Ensuring pupils spiritual, moral, social, and cultural development is nurtured.
• Ensuring the well-being of pupils, staff and families is supported. 
• Having a role in the appointment senior members of staff including the Headteacher.

Whilst the governors are always open to ideas and opinions they are not primarily responsible for:

• Discussing the individual needs of pupils (please contact your child's teacher for this).
• Complaints/concerns about staff (this should initially be addressed to the Headteacher).
• Fund raising and social events (this is run by the Friends).

If you would like to get involved in local governance, please contact the Trust Governance Professional: governance@sfat.uk 

Meet the Governors

Matt Creed

I was born in the Forest of Dean and attended primary school within the Forest. I am married and we have two children who both attend Bream School. I run my own company working within television broadcast and have worked in that industry for 25 years. I am a keen runner and have taken part in over 100 marathons. I wanted to become more involved with the school and understand more of how it works during the home-schooling period of 2020. I learnt so much from seeing my own children develop through that time, which was early on in their education path. I offer my support to work with parents, teachers, the Head and other Governors to help the continued improvement needed to provide our children with the best chance of primary education and preparation for secondary school. I totally believe in the value and importance of a well-balanced education as well as ensuring they have a safe and loving environment to be taught in.

 Reverend Stephen Harrison 

I am Rev Stephen Harrison and am delighted to be connected to Bream Primary School due to my role as the Vicar of St James, Bream. My wife Olivia and I arrived in Bream in 2023 and love the local community and the wider Forest of Dean. We emigrated from South Africa in 2017 and have enjoyed settling into life in the United Kingdom. We have two grown children, the younger one just finishing university and the older one works for the Guide Dogs for the Blind. Olivia and I enjoy camping, walks with the dog and cycling.  

Danielle Brotherston

I started my career in financial services, training as an actuary and later moving into senior leadership roles across investments, financial advice and proposition development. In those roles, I sat on and chaired senior committees and regularly presented to boards, contributing to strategy and governance discussions. After many years leading teams and shaping direction, I set up my own consultancy.

I now work with business owners to help them grow their business, plan their strategy and develop strong leadership teams. I also act as a Board adviser. Alongside this, I have built businesses myself, including an award-winning brewery and a Christmas shop. This means I understand what it really takes to run and grow a business, as well as the importance of clear strategy and strong governance in larger organisations.

I am married with two young children and also serve as a LAC member at Newnham St. Peter’s School. I would like to contribute practical experience, balanced judgement and a long-term view to support the school and its wider community.

Composition of the Committee

Register of Interests & Responsibilities

Retired Local Governors

Attendance at Committee Meetings

2025-2026

2024-2025

Committee Newsletters