Who we are

Andy Kendall

Chair of Woodlands LAC

I am a retired police detective with experience in the safeguarding of children. After retirement I worked as a Wildlife Crime Investigator with a well-known animal charity.

I became involved with Woodlands School when I worked for a year as a relief caretaker to cover the post until a full-time caretaker was employed. I enjoyed working alongside a team of dedicated staff and supporting a great bunch of children. Whilst employed at the school I became a governor on the Local Academy Council. I now serve as the Chair of Woodlands Local Academy Council and link councillor for Health & Safety and Equality.

My interests include ancient and modern military history, a keen local historian and metal detectorist, and enjoy riding my Harley Davidson motorcycle.

Huw Grove

Local Academy Councillor

I am currently a Local Academy Councillor for Woodlands, as well as the Chair at Wicklea Academy.

I am retired and previously worked in the Financial Services industry for over 30 years.

More recently, I was the Chair at Brislington Cricket Club for 6 years, where I am still a Trustee. I also enjoy playing golf (badly) and travelling away on our holidays.

I joined the team of Local Academy Councillors at Woodlands Academy in 2020 and have thoroughly enjoyed my time being part of the governing body. I am looking forward to working closely with everyone involved at both Woodlands and Wicklea over the coming years.

Lance Mason

Local Academy Councillor

I have lived in Stockwood, apart from a couple of years in Reading, since 1985. My background is in Further and Higher Education. I am married and currently the Pastor of the Free Church in Ladman Road, a job which I really love. When my two children were younger I was a Governor of Stockwood Green School.

I wanted to be a (maths) teacher from a very young age and have always had a passion for seeing young people grow and fulfil their potential. My wife went to Woodlands in the days when it was Burnbush School and we know many others who went there, so I have a natural wish to support the young people and the staff at the school. It is a joy and a privilege to serve on the Local Academy Council. You will often see me in and around school, so please free to say hi!

Oh, and in case you're interested, two of my other great passions are swimming and playing the saxophone..... but not at the same time!