Carl Atkinson is the chair of Westcountry Schools Trust and a Member. 

Carl is a practising holistic independent financial planner and has operated since 1988. He is Director of a limited company providing financial advice to private and corporate clientele together with Trusts and Charities. 

Carl brings a wealth of experience in governance having initially been Chair of the Finance Committee for Hele's School for seven years followed by then Chairing the Local Governing Board. Carl Chairs the Finance Committee for WeST. Carls' knowledge and experience in governance is complimented with his strategic leadership and financial acumen within the private sector.

Appointed by - Members

Appointed from - 23 September 2024 

David retired from HSBC Bank plc in 2014 after a career of over 40 years in banking. He has worked in locations throughout Devon and Cornwall and in his final role was a Relationship Manager based in the Commercial Centre in Plymouth. His responsibilities included the management of a portfolio of businesses with an annual sales turnover of up to £30 million. 

David first joined the Governing Body of Ivybridge Community College and then became a founding member of the Ivybridge Academy Trust. Following the growth of the Trust into WeST he stepped down from the board but has remained a member. 

David is a director of Plymouth Energy Community Renewables Ltd and Ernesettle Community Solar Limited both part of Plymouth Energy Community a charity aiming to alleviate energy poverty and provide community benefit in the Plymouth area.

Appointed by - Original (signatory) Members

Appointed from - 1 November 2011

Appointed by - Academy Members 

Appointed from - 10 September 2018 

Michael Saltern has previously served in the WeST local tier of Governance and as a Trustee. 

Michael served as a Higher Executive Officer in the MOD and has now retired from the Civil Service. He was previously a District Councillor for 18 years and held major portfolios on the Council’s Executive. Michael is currently chair of the Overview and Scrutiny Panel. Michael has been a Director and Chair within the DCH Group. He is currently an advisor to the Police and Crime Commissioner. 

Michael brings a wealth of strategic leadership and governance experience from the public and private sector.

Appointed by - Members

Date of appointment - 3 January 2023