Meet The Governors!

Steven Finch, Chair of Governors: Community Governor

I am a retired Finance and Computing Business Analyst who has worked with a number of organisations in the Public and Private sectors. Born in England but have lived in Wales since 1979. Married with three grandchildren in secondary school and one at University.

I was asked to become a Community Governor in 2016 as a member of the Cardiff Breakfast Rotary who have been helping at the school over the past six years. Our members assist with reading and developing the school garden into a more attractive area. We have also donated the garden bench and erected the Eco flag pole. I have read regularly with Year 6 over the past six years and am keen to help move the school forward, working with the talented, dedicated and enthusiastic staff and children that I have met during my involvement here. I was delighted to be asked to become Chair of Governors last year and am looking forward to carry on working with Mrs Keys, her staff and the other governors to continue the schools progress.

Arzu Mola: Parent Governor

Arzu Mola is a professional Taekwondo practitioner who was born in Denmark and has lived in Sweden, Ireland, and Tanzania. Growing up  and living in different countries has given her a deep appreciation for diverse cultures, communities, and perspectives.

She is a qualified social pedagogue and is currently pursuing a master’s degree in Law. Alongside her academic studies, she is also completing her Personal Trainer education.

Arzu is passionate about people, wellbeing, and inclusive communities. She values bringing people from different backgrounds together and believes that understanding, respect, and cultural exchange are essential in creating positive and supportive environments.

Tom Breeze: Local Authority Governor

I spent ten years as a secondary school music teacher in a school in Rhondda Cynon Taff, and then moved to Cardiff Metropolitan University, where I run the PGCE Secondary Music programme and work across our Initial Teacher Education programmes. Our student teachers come to Bryn Celyn and other local schools (primary or secondary) on placement to learn how to teach, so I’m keen to give back and support one of our nearby schools. 

My other work at Cardiff Met includes researching into classroom music education, and how new teachers learn to teach. I love to support new teachers, and anyone who wants to feel more confident about teaching music in the classroom. I still miss having my own pupils even though I left my teaching job in 2015! 

Outside of work I am still a keen musician myself. I have two children who go to school in Cardiff. 

Iain McDonald: Local Authority Governor

My name is Iain McDonald and I was appointed LA Governor to Bryn Celyn Primary School in September 2018. I am a retired Teacher / Headteacher who has 38 years of experience working in Primary, Secondary and Special schools in various parts of England and Wales. I was a teacher in Moorland Road Junior School, Splott for 3 years in the 1970s, and teacher / Headteacher in Stacey Road Primary School, Roath for 18 years before retiring in 2010.

As a member of the Governing Body I will endeavour to support the work of the Headteacher and staff in providing educational opportunities that will make a difference to the children in their care as they progress through the school. With parental support I am sure that we will continue to give the children at Bryn Celyn the opportunity to " dream, believe and achieve ".

Aqa Brother Hematyar: Parent Governor 

I am an active volunteer within the school community, serving as a Parent Governor and supporting the school as a volunteer Teaching Assistant. In my role as a Parent Governor, I work with staff and fellow governors to help ensure that the school provides a safe, inclusive, and high‑quality learning environment for all pupils. As a volunteer Teaching Assistant, I enjoy supporting children in the classroom and helping them develop confidence, positive learning habits, and engagement in their learning.

Elizabeth Tiltman: Community Govenor

I am a proud mam to two grown-up children (and three cats). I enjoy live comedy shows and crime novels. I have extensive experience in education, having held a variety of teaching and leadership roles. Currently, I work as an Advisory Teacher at Central South Consortium, supporting the development of Humanities in five local authorities. Through my advisory work, I have had the opportunity to get to know Bryn Celyn Primary School, and I would be honoured to join its governing body. I have been deeply impressed by the dedication of the headteacher and staff, who consistently go above and beyond for every child and family, helping children grow into ethical, informed adults. Like the school and its governors, I believe that every child is unique and special. As community governor, I am committed to supporting the team to ensure that every child at Bryn Celyn Primary School has the opportunity to reach their full potential.