Meet the Governors
Richard Meadmore
Chair of Governors - Foundation Governor
​I was pleased, but a little daunted, to be elected as a parent governor in 2006. Now, my Crossley Street children are off and in the world of work but I am still here. I was elected as Chair in 2019 and am now also Chair of the Wharfe Valley Learning Partnership, of which the school is a member. Over the years, I have seen and been involved in many changes but I am beyond proud to say that throughout, the wellbeing of our children, families and staff has remained paramount in everything we do. I like to think I'm approachable, so should you want to reach me, please do so either via the school office or by email to rmeadmore@crossleystreet.co.uk
Gavin Hirst
Headteacher
I first joined Crossley Street in 2009, before taking over as the Deputy Head and SENCO in 2011, and 6 years later, in September 2017, I began my current role as Head Teacher. I have been a part of this committed Governing Body since I first joined the school all those years ago! I look forward to working together to take the school forward and continue to provide the best possible primary experience for all of our pupils.
Linda Richards
Foundation Governor
I have been involved in Education since 1985. As a History teacher, I wanted to enthuse students about the past. I specialised in working with 16-19 year old students in challenging circumstances. I was elected as Ward Councillor for Wetherby in December 2019 and it is my great pleasure to support Crossley Street Primary School in its journey to provide the best learning environment for all students.
Helen Young
Parent Governor
I have two children at Crossley Street and first became a parent governor in November 2020. I am a teacher and I previously taught in the classroom for ten years. I currently work as part of the Special Education Needs and Inclusion Team, supporting very young children to access education across a range of settings.
Gilly Laverty
Staff Governor
I started my journey at Crossley Street Primary School in September 2017, where I was immediately keen to get involved in all aspects of school life and to learn as much about the school as possible. I am delighted to have the opportunity to work as part of the Governing Body and as Assistant Head Teacher, to help to maintain our 'Outstanding' status. I currently sit on the Resources committee as well as being involved in staffing and other projects.
Emma Anderson
Co-Opted Governor
I live locally and have children attending a nearby school. As a solicitor specializing in commercial property matters, I bring valuable legal expertise to my role as a co-opted governor. Outside of work, I enjoy playing football and am actively involved in the local community. I currently serve on the Resources committee, where I contribute to the effective management and development of the school’s resources.
Kath Holden
Co-Opted Governor
After many years in the Leeds area while my daughter attended Gateways and Leeds Grammar School, I spent a brief period on the Isle of Wight before realizing that retirement hadn't quite "stuck" yet! I returned to the business world to launch a frontline ambulance service for the NHS, but eventually found my way back to Yorkshire to support my daughter’s local business and enjoy life as a grandmother.
I joined the Governing Body to share the skills I’ve gathered over a lifetime in business. I have a particular interest in organizational efficiency and fundraising, and I am passionate about using my experience to help our school thrive.
Ang Hynes
Co-Opted Governor
I'm very happy to be elected as one of the Governors at such a wonderful primary school. I have a wealth of knowledge and experience in management and the early year's sector so naturally, I'm delighted to be the named governor for the Pre-School class. I am also part of the Teaching, Learning & Pupil Support committee for the school. In my professional role, I am a senior manager in a childcare centre and am fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the highest quality provision and outcomes for children and families.
Megan Dukes
Co-Opted Governor
I officially joined Crossley Street in September 2025 after working at the school on supply since December 2024. From the moment I arrived, I knew it was a place I thrived to be in and wanted to be part of. I lead the school newspaper, which I thoroughly enjoy as it gives pupils a voice and encourages creativity. I am looking forward to growing within the school as both a member of staff and a governor, and to hopefully make a positive difference for both pupils and staff.
Di Drinkwater
Co-Opted Governor
As a daughter of 2 teachers and parent of 4, I value the educational experience and its ability to mould and shape our future generations.
I am grateful to be given the opportunity to use my skill set to assist the school as a Governor.
I have worked in numerous sectors including education as a Senior HR professional. I have a Masters in HR aswell as a Masters in Law.
I look forward to working with the governing body to benefit the school.
David Fletcher
Parent Governor
I have two young children at the school and am proud to support the school community as a parent governor. I work in a strategic planning role for a global fashion brand and hope to bring a thoughtful and supportive perspective to helping the school continue to thrive.