Hello, my name is Matthew Evans, and I am an Analytical Product Owner (Project Management) at Jaguar Land Rover working within a multi-cultural environment as well as raising a family of my own.  I have been a school governor since my eldest daughter first started school in 2009. I utilise the skills and experience I have gained from these roles to the governing board at Samuel Allsopp.

I live outside of Burton in Coton-in-the Elms and fell in love with Samuel Allsopp the first time I visited the school. Once I walked through the doors my decision to become part of this fantastic school was validated and I look forward to every visit.

I have a real interest in both Early Years provision along with support around SEND, this is driven by experience in being and living with family members who are Neurodivergent, with exposure to dyslexia, autism and ADHD.

I moved into the role of Co-Chair of Governors to the board in 2022 and in January 2026 formally took on the sole responsibility of Chair of Governors.

  Matthew Evans

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I am a Co-opted Governor and joined the Local Governing Body in November 2025. I live in Burton-on-Trent, and have dedicated my career to education, with my first position as a primary school teacher at Samuel Allsopp when it was Victoria Community School. I then worked as a headteacher in South Derbyshire, and then later working as a school improvement adviser for Derbyshire Local Authority. I now work as Head of Operations for a multi-academy trust, giving me extensive experience in education, governance and leadership.

I am passionate about supporting schools to provide the very best opportunities for all young people and am proud to work alongside the school’s dedicated staff and governors. What makes this school truly special is its strong sense of community and family, which I am committed to nurturing and upholding. I have a particular interest in Pupil Premium, SEND and inclusion.

  Clare Hodson-Walker

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Hi, my name is Lee Archer, and I am a Headteacher at a local primary school in Burton.  I have over 25 years of experience in education in both teaching and in leadership roles across Derbyshire and Burton, working with a wide range of cultures and diverse needs as well as raising a family of my own.  I hope to bring the skills and experience I have gained from these roles to the governing board at Samuel Allsopp.  I became a governor because I think it is important that local schools and professionals support each other and their communities to help children have the best opportunities in life and look forward to working with the school and my fellow governors to help provide these for the pupils at Samuel Allsopp.

   Lee Archer