Governing Body

Global Academy’s Governing Body consists of dedicated and experienced governors from the creative broadcast and media industry – who bring a wealth of expertise and experience to support and challenge the school. They’re committed to working in close partnership with the Principal, staff, parents and students in developing a successful school that prepares students for a career in the creative media industry.

Their main duties are to:

    • Set and review the school’s budget and development plans
    • Set the strategic direction, policies and objectives of Global Academy
    • Monitor and review the curriculum, behaviour, and safeguarding outcomes for the students;
    • Be a critical friend to challenge and support the Principal

How the Governing Body works

Emma Bradley - Chair of Govenors

Chair of Governors

Emma has been on the Board of Global Academy since 2016, formerly as Safeguarding Governor and member of Teaching & Learning Committee, and now as Chair of Governors. She currently is a consultant for Global supporting their in-house charity, Global’s Make Some Noise as well as wider social impact initiatives. Emma was previously the Director of Global Goodness and ran the charity from 2013 – 2022.

Prior to Global, she worked in marketing at the BBC, and before that she held various marketing roles in the travel industry.

She is also a Trustee of YHA (Youth Hostel Association) which provides opportunities for young people to broaden their horizons.

Zey Suka-Bill

Chair of Teaching and Learning Committee
Dean of Screen, London College of Communication

Zey Suka-Bill is the Dean of Screen at London College of Communication, with responsibility for leading undergraduate and postgraduate courses in Film, Television, Animation, Games Design and Sound Arts. In addition to her role as Dean of Screen, Zey is the College lead for wellbeing of staff and students, be responsible for Health and Safety, and jointly Chair the Health and Safety Committee alongside the Director of College Administration.

After gaining a BA in Photographic Arts and Criminology from Westminster University, Zey worked as a medical illustrator within the public sector before becoming a full-time educator.

Zey is a qualified teacher with over 25 years’ experience of teaching, leadership and management in both Further and Higher Education, and has taught and developed visual art modules across a variety of degree disciplines in several London based Higher Education institutions. She holds a Masters in Research (MREs) from the University of London and is a Senior Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.

Julie Coombes

Link Governor for Recruitment and Marketing
Director of Internal and External Relations, London College of Communication, UAL

Julie Coombes is the Director of Internal and External Relations for UAL’s London College of Communication (LCC), a pioneering global leader in creative communications education. Since 2013, Julie has provided strategic leadership and direction for the College on a wide internal and external relations remit aimed at engaging core audiences, raising the profile of the College, and enhancing reputation.

Her team develop and deliver a diverse range of programmes, initiatives and activities including marketing for student recruitment, internal and external communications, media relations, brand management, events and exhibitions, digital content, and graduate support and engagement.

Julie has over 20 years experience of in marketing and communications across the Higher Education, charity and public sectors.

Sobia Shamim

Chair of the Finance, Audit and Premises Committee
Finance Consultant

Sobia is a qualified accountant with over 25 years of experience in commercial finance roles in blue chip, FMCG and tech environments. She previously worked at Global Media and Entertainment where she was Finance Director, Group and Outdoor.

Prior to Global, Sobia was VP of Finance at Shutterstock and headed up their London office. Sobia also worked as European FD at Revlon International and in a variety of finance roles at Cadbury Trebor Bassett and British Airways.

Jaskamal Sidhu

Member of the Teaching and Learning Committee
Executive Principal at Guru Nanak Sikh Multi Academy Trust

Having worked in the education sector for over 16 years, I am keen to share my experience, knowledge and skill as a valuable member of GB at Global Academy.

I have worked in various roles, from teaching to senior management, and have always strived to impact students’ lives positively. In addition, I served as a governor for six years, giving me a broader perspective on educational matters and policies. As educators, we serve to prepare our children to meet future challenges professionally, socially and personally.

I am glad to contribute to the collective effort to ensure that GA continues to provide high-quality education and a safe learning environment.

Chris Forrester

Member of the Finance and Property Committee and Full Board
Commercial Director – Outdoor, Global

Media professional with 20+ years of leadership experience across print, digital and out-of-home markets in some of the UK’s most respected media companies. Chris has vast experience at devising and implementing effective sales and marketing strategies alongside developing powerful target-beating teams centred around a strong organisational culture.

Linsey Myford

Parent Govenor

I am a parent passionate about Young People and their rights in Education, Further Education and employment. I have first-hand experience with challenges young people with disabilities face in a school environment.

I currently work for a charity who provide mentoring and employment opportunities to care experienced young people. Analysing data collected about young people in or leaving the care system.

I am a licensed National Autistic Society “EarlyBird” trainer, supporting families of children newly diagnosed with Autism and other differences.

Rebecca Tyers

Rebecca Tyers
Governing Body and Teaching and Learning Committee
Chief Media Officer, Department for Education

In her day job, Rebecca manages the strategy and delivery of media communications for the schools portfolio for the Department for Education. Rebecca’s team provide essential information to the public on the Government’s education policies through high profile campaigns across UK media including broadcast, print, digital and consumer outlets.

Before moving to the civil service, Rebecca was a journalist for ITV News and has almost 20 years experience working across communications, media, broadcast journalism, advertising and politics.

As well as a good opportunity for her to apply her expertise, Global Academy is a unique school that Rebecca wished had been available to her when she was younger which drives her interest in her role as Governor.

Angela Sharma

Angela Sharma
Parent Governor
Solicitor

I have been a lawyer for over 20 years but I am also a parent who is keen and committed to bringing out the best in young people by maximising the support provided in their educational setting. That support is not only through quality of teaching but also in the environment and pastoral care provided. I have direct experience of neurodiversity and dealing with (sometimes acute) mental health conditions, and am familiar with the SEND framework.

I also feel strongly about recognising the needs of all students and harnessing opportunities for social mobility and diversity and inclusion to provide a learning setting that is truly aspirational. I am also enthusiastic about trying to develop a parental community so we can work together to further strengthen the framework of the school.

Desaray Ellis

Teaching and Learning; Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Senior Partnerships Manager, Global Media Group

I am a previous teacher with a passion for education. It is important that people are provided with opportunities to learn and grow as well encouraging platforms for innovative ideas and creative thinking.

Being part of the media industry is exciting and everyday brings a new challenge. I want to ensure that the academy is supported but also challenged to bring the best education possible for all students.

Ready to kickstart your career in media?

Ready to kickstart your career in media?

Ready to kickstart your career in media?

Ready to kickstart your career in media?

Ready to kickstart your career in media?