New Governors welcomed to the School’s Corporation Board
The Northern School of Art has welcomed new members to its Corporation Board, the governing body responsible for setting strategy, policies and oversight across the School.
Founded over 150 years ago, the School has a long-standing reputation in the North East for developing skilled artists, designers and makers. Its practical, practice-led approach has shaped generations of creative professionals and the Board plays a vital role in guiding the institution while safeguarding its heritage as a specialist creative school.
Outgoing Chair Tim Bailey is stepping down after nine years as a Governor, including three years leading the Board. During his tenure, he helped guide the School’s strategic growth and strengthen its regional and national profile.
Reflecting on his time, he said: “Serving as Chair has been a real buzz as the School carves a new path regionally and nationally. I am pleased to welcome new Governors who will take the School through its next adventures.”
Professor Stuart Bartholomew CBE DL has been appointed as the new Chair. He brings decades of experience in higher education and the creative industries, having held senior posts in the UK and Canada, including Principal and Vice-Chancellor of Arts University Bournemouth.
Having advised national and international bodies on arts, media and creative sector policy, Professor Bartholomew is widely recognised for championing specialist creative education. He said: “The Northern School of Art has a long history of providing creative education, and I look forward to supporting its continuing success and extending its impact regionally and nationally.”
Beverley Bearne has been appointed as Vice Chair, bringing extensive experience in strategic development, operations and regional regeneration including in her former role as Chief Operating Officer for Middlesbrough & Hartlepool Development Corporations.
Other Governors joining or continuing on the Board include:
- Mark Easby – Teesside-based entrepreneur and founder of Better, a strategic brand agency. He also chairs the High Tide Foundation, supporting young people in the region.
- Professor Vladimir Mirodan – Emeritus Professor of Theatre at University of the Arts London, with a career spanning leadership role in UK drama schools and research in acting psychology and director training.
- Gayle Woodruffe – Operations Director at North East Screen, with over 30 years supporting the development of the film and TV sector in the region. This includes bringing major productions such as Harry Potter, Vera, Smoggie Queens and I Fought the Law to the North East. She was also instrumental in creating the north east’s crew academy – developing pipelines into the industry.
The Board also acknowledges the contribution of outgoing Governors, Professor Jane Rapley, Professor Robin Simmons, David Hughes and Kieron Goldsborough, whose guidance and expertise have shaped the School’s achievements, supported students and staff, and strengthened links with the creative industries.
Dr Martin Raby, Principal of The Northern School of Art said: “I am grateful to all our outgoing Governors for their support and generosity provided over many years. I am pleased to welcome new members who I am sure will offer valuable insights and advice as the School continues to grow and develop.”
The Corporation continues to oversee the School’s strategy, academic standards, and engagement with the wider creative community, ensuring strong governance and support for students’ creative futures alongside promoting inclusivity and engagement across the institution.
