Line-up of National Speakers for Devon Conference

Devon Association of Governance (DAG) have put together an inspiring line-up for their free to attend conference at Exeter Racecourse on Saturday morning, 4^th November 2023.

Everyone involved in governance in Devon schools is invited to come along and celebrate DAG’s 30 years supporting good governance.

As this year the theme is about making an impact we are delighted to welcome the following speakers:

Ashley John-Baptiste – Award winning broadcaster, TV presenter, journalist and a truly inspirational speaker will be talking about influencing young lives for the better. He will share his story of growing up in care and how the intervention of a caring adult can positively shape a life.

Michael Barton – Governance Development Lead from The National Governance Association (NGA) will be talking to delegates about how governance can make a real impact on outcomes for pupils in our schools.

Michael specialises in trust governance, co-ordinating NGA’s work with multi-academy trusts and producing tailored resources. He has authored a series of reports, on topics including the pupil premium and central leadership structures in MATs. He also leads NGA’s work in the West Midlands, working closely with the region’s trusts and local authorities, and will be taking on responsibility for the South West after Christmas.

Samira Sadeghi – Director of Trust Governance at The Confederation of School Trusts, a national sector body representing trusts across England, will be talking about CST’s work nationally advocating for, connecting and supporting good governance within academies.

Samira has been involved in school governance for over a decade. Prior to joining CST, she served as Head of Governance and Company  Secretary at Academies Enterprise Trust, a trust with 57 schools. She started her career in governance with Ark Schools, as a Regional Governance Officer. Before she moved to the U.K. with her family in 2010, Samira was a criminal defence attorney in California representing men on death row on their habeas corpus petitions for almost 12 years.

Donna Manson – the new Chief Executive for Devon County Council will be talking about the council’s vision for the future of education in the County.

There will be plenty of opportunities to network, visit stands and enjoy some of our special 30^th birthday cake!

Visit www.dagdevon.uk to book.