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Meet our Members

Members oversee the trust by:

1. Holding trustees to account for effective governance
2. Ensuring that the trust is fulfilling its purpose and charitable objectives. 

Members meet three times a year. They are not involved in the practical running of the trust. 

Members appoint trustees and can amend the articles of association. 

Elizabeth Smart - Chair

Liz is an experienced Head of Law School with a demonstrated history of working at institutional level in the higher education industry and legal professional education. 

Liz is a TEF Business and Law Panel Member and Institutional Lead for Sheffield Hallam University, a National Teaching Fellow and Principal Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. 

Liz is skilled in public speaking, leadership, team leadership and quality assurance. She is a strong legal professional with an Executive MBA focussed in Law; National Police Consultant and Assessor.

Caroline Bagley

Caroline was a founder member of the Tapton School Academy Trust when it converted in 2012. She is also a trustee.

Caroline is a retired secondary school teacher who is passionate about changing the life chances and dreams of young people. 

In her spare time, Caroline is a keen supporter of Guide Dogs and has puppy walked 12 guide dog puppies, each one from 6 weeks old until they are a year old.

Much of Caroline's time is now spent looking after her two young granddaughters.   

Richard Dunlop

Richard is a globally experienced senior executive with an accomplished career spanning the financial services, retail, commercial and utility sectors. He has a proven track record in leading large-scale banking operations, as well as delivering results in technology and risk management. 

Richard's leadership expertise is underpinned by a strong ability to navigate complex environments and drive strategic initiatives that enhance efficiency and business growth. 

In addition to his corporate career, Richard is the founder of Bronze Giant, a company dedicated to providing professional and advisory services to Boards and Senior Executives. Outside of his professional endeavours Richard enjoys spending quality time with his family.