A GUISELEY School student who left after his A-levels in 2016 to embark on a legal apprenticeship at law firm Gordons has been appointed as a co-opted governor by his former school.

Dan Western, who grew up in Guiseley, fully qualified as a chartered legal executive specialising in commercial property-related matters last December.

During his apprenticeship, he experienced mentoring from Gordons’ partners and experienced hands-on training to develop him professionally and personally. This has proved instrumental in providing Dan with the confidence and skills to become a school governor.

He accepted the co-opted governor role offered to him after discussions with headteacher Paul Clayton with whom he stayed in touch with after leaving.

In his role as governor, Dan will help the school implement its strategic vision whilst also being involved in decisions around performance, resourcing, and personnel.

Guiseley School has 1,450 pupils and a ‘Good’ Ofsted rating. Having undertaken an extensive re-build programme over the last four years, the school now benefits from two new three-storey buildings.

These are home to sports, arts and science classrooms, as well as facilities for general teaching, and provide enhanced facilities for pupils, staff and the local community.

Gordons launched its legal apprenticeship in September 2011.