Welcome to the Parent Trustee Candidates page. Here, you can learn more about the three candidates standing for election as Parent Trustee at The JCB Academy. Each candidate brings a unique set of skills, experiences and perspectives to the role, all with the shared goal of representing the interests of learners and their families. Please take the time to read their profiles and understand their visions for supporting our academy community.
Mr David Adam Bailey
As a parent of two sons at the JCB Academy, I am deeply invested in the school’s success and the development of its students. I bring over 22 years of experience in the land-based sector, where I have held senior management positions in large national companies and charities. This has provided me with a strong foundation in leadership, decision-making, and strategic planning—skills that would greatly benefit the academy’s board.
Currently, I serve as a forestry and arboriculture lecturer at South Staffordshire College, a role I’ve held for the past two years. I am passionate about education and recently completed my teacher training at Staffordshire University, where I graduated as a qualified teacher. My journey into education stemmed from a practical career path, which allowed me to develop a hands-on approach to learning—something that resonates strongly with the ethos of the JCB Academy.
Although school wasn’t initially my strength, it was my curiosity and passion for practical learning that drove my career forward. Today, I take immense pride in teaching the next generation and helping students find their path, just as I found mine. I am committed to bringing that same passion, curiosity, and dedication to the role of parent trustee, ensuring that all students have the opportunity to thrive academically and personally.
Mr Ivailo Chakarov
As a parent of a Year 9 student at The JCB Academy, I am eager to support the school’s continued success as a Parent Trustee. The academy’s focus on technical, scientific, and business education, alongside its motto of “Changing lives by developing the engineers and business leaders of the future,” aligns with my passion for innovative education.
I have taught Information Technology and technical subjects across various settings, including Higher Education apprenticeships and BTEC Sixth Form courses. This experience has given me insight into the delivery of technical education and the ability to build strong relationships with staff and management. I also bring a unique cultural perspective as I have completed my primary and secondary education outside the UK, and innovative thinking as both a parent and educator, providing a holistic view of students’ challenges today.
I value the JCB Academy’s blend of traditional values, such as self-discipline and teamwork, with its modern curriculum. As a Trustee, I would collaborate with school leaders to ensure transparency and open communication. I wouldn’t hesitate to challenge the senior leadership team in a constructive, supportive manner to promote the best interests of the JCB Academy students.
If elected I look forward to helping shape the experience of all students at the Academy while gaining improved insight into educational challenges and valuable leadership and governance skills.
Mr Shaun Lees
I am a 44 year old Father of 5. I own and run Patera Engineering LTD which has been in our family for 37 years. Since taking control as Managing Director in 2014 1 have increased Turnover year on year and increased staffing levels from 12 to 65 currently
I have previously acted as Parent Governor to Birches Head Academy and then went on to take a position as Governor with Esprit MAT before they made me Trustee and Director.
I held these above positions for approximately 10 years before resigning early in 2020 to concentrate my focus fully on my Business during the Covid Pandemic,
I do miss being involved in Governance and feel I have plenty to give. Being a business owner I have flexibility around the working day so attending the relevant meetings is no issue.
I am not an academic, I was born and raised on a local Council Estate which gave me the drive to better myself. I have an entrepreneurial ethic, always looking for what others do not see and working hard to capitalize on opportunities.
I feel I would be an asset to JCB Academy as a Trustee and would relish the opportunity to challenge and inspire.
