The Team
Our friendly and professional team are here to help you enjoy your time at the Glasshoughton Centre. Between us, we have been serving the local community here for 6 years. We always try to make sure everything is as you would hope - clean, safe and welcoming. If this is ever not the case, do please let one of us know so we can try to put things right. Our customers matter to us.
Derek Stead
My name is Derek Stead, and I am the development manager for the centre.
I have been in post for over six years, since the main building was completed. As most people know, we have developed many and varied services for local Glasshoughton people over this time. With the completion of our new Activity Studio, we will be able to do much more, especially dance, drama and physical exercise.
Former roles leading to this one
I have had lots of jobs in my time, but in more recent times this has figured mainly around physical regeneration, the environment and health improvement.
Best part of job
I enjoy many different aspects of the job. Working in the interests of the local Glasshoughton community is probably the most satisfying. Also, Glasshoughton Community Forum members I feel have done a marvellous job in creating all these facilities and services for all people living in Glasshoughton. It’s good to be part of this team.
Most challenging part
There are many challenging aspects to the job. Ensuring that we have enough money to do what we want at the Centre has probably got to the biggest challenge, but it is important to look to the future to ensure that we have modern and varied facilities for Glasshougthon people for the future too.
Bit of personal background
I like many rural sports and activities. I am not a cricketer or footballer – so that means I can always remain neutral on the odd occasions that disputes here arise!
Looking ahead
I look forward to providing more services and facilities which are of benefit for local Glasshoughton people and really hope that more local people will join us. I know the Directors here would welcome more Glasshoughton people sharing in the management of the centre, and assisting in the planning of new sustainable services in the future. The centre is well respected for its achievements in wider circles throughout the region, and we need to keep up this high profile in the future.
Rachel Rayner
My name is Rachel Rayner and I am the children and families development coordinator at the Glasshoughton Centre.
Former roles leading to this one
I have been in this role for four years but previously worked in a primary school in Leeds, was assistant head at a children’s activity centre and worked as a tutor for the WEA delivering family learning courses. My current role is part time, so I also do some work for ‘Aimhigher’ in primary schools.
Best part of job
I love working with families and thoroughly enjoy my job! Watching children and their parents blossom is so rewarding. In 2006, I was nominated by a group of parents for the Sue Ryder Yorkshire Woman of Achievement for Education and I won! This was a fantastic day and one I will never forget!
Most challenging part
The most challenging part of my job is trying to fit all the work into part time hours! I wish there were more hours in the day! Or perhaps less work…….but it keeps me out of trouble!!! The ‘to do’ list never gets to the end!
Bit of personal background
I am married with two gorgeous girls. We all love being outdoors and walking. We recently bought a caravan and love the freedom of being able to travel around and see different parts of the country. So when I’m not at the centre- that’s where I’ll be! The girls and I also really like doing creative things and making a mess!
Looking ahead
I am looking forward to continuing to work alongside the exceptional team of tutors and staff that make the Big Lottery-funded family learning programme so diverse and innovative.
Dianne Harrison
My name is Dianne Harrison and I am an administrator at the centre.
Former roles leading to this one
Prior to working at the centre I worked as receptionist/secretary for a firm of financial advisors. Before that I worked as a secretary in a solicitors’ office.
Best part of job
Meeting all types of different people who come into the centre and the variety of the work involved.
Most challenging part
Making sure all jobs are completed on time.
Bit of personal background
I am married and have three daughters and three grand daughters. I enjoy my holidays and visiting different countries.
Looking ahead
I am looking forward to continuing being part of the team and the continued success of the centre.
Craig Moss
My name is Craig Moss and I am the Sport & Active Lifestyles Development Officer at the Glasshoughton Centre.
Former roles leading to this one
Former Sport and recreation Officer in Doncaster
Head Sports Coach for a major sports college.
Best part of job
I take great satisfaction working with each individual to reach their fitness goals and also delivering my healthy lifestyles sessions to larger groups.
Most challenging part
The most challenging part of my job is making people aware of the need to lead a healthy lifestyle.
Bit of personal background
I'm a very active person and I really enjoy playing and coaching all different types of physical activity. I'm also a big socializer and follower of rugby.
Looking ahead
Here at the Glasshoughton centre my goal is to try and build up a number of different exercise classes and healthy lifestyle sessions for the local community.
Ann French
My name is Ann French and I am one of the administrators at the centre. I work alongside Dianne on reception.
Former roles leading to this one
I worked at RHP at Ferrybridge for a number of years in the accounts department.
Best part of job
I enjoy meeting new people and making sure that meetings run smoothly and that everyone is happy.
Most challenging part
The constant ringing of the telephone when I am trying to concentrate on the accounts!
Bit of personal background
I am married to John and have 2 children and grandchildren who I love to spoil.
Hobbies etc
I love swimming and going on foreign holidays.
Looking ahead
I am looking forward to meeting new people and welcoming them to our centre.
Joe Clinton
My name is Joe Clinton and I am the cleaner/caretaker at the centre.
Former roles leading to this one
I worked at Glasshoughton colliery for 20 years and then went to the glass works for three years. I then went on to work as a charge hand at Kellingley colliery. I was on the Glasshoughton Welfare committee for 12 years and am currently on the Castleford FA Committee.
Best part of job
Meeting different people every day.
Most challenging part
Getting up early every morning to make sure the centre is ready for business!
Bit of personal info
I have two boys, a girl and six grandchildren.One son lives in Canada and the other in America so I try to get to see them whenever possible. I really like cricket and I try to get to watch that or football as often as I can.
Looking ahead
I am looking forward to the continuing in my role and visiting Canada or America soon!
Darren Watson
My name is Darren Watson and I am the 'website man'.
Former roles leading to this one
My portfolio includes the Knottingley High School & Sports College website.
Best part of job
I love being involved in a way that I can be individually creative. It's exciting to respond to trends & demands.
Most challenging part
Having to look at Craig all day!
Bit of personal info
I'm a full time musician in a band called New York Drama Club and I teach the BTEC Music course two days a week at Knottingley High. I'm a self-taught web designer and currently involved in a couple of exciting projects including an Artist and a Musical Theatre Actress portfolio sites.
Looking ahead
There's no time for that yet, let me enjoy the now while it lasts!
Chris Moules
My name is Chris Moules and I am an Administrative Support Officer
Former roles leading to this one
I was a Store Manager for 2½ years previously
Best part of job
Being able to help the team out to improve the quality of the centre.
Most challenging part
Adapting to the different circumstances and roles needed for the centre.
Bit of personal info
I am the front man for the heavy metal band (Hamerex) and are in the process of recording are first album.
Looking ahead
The warmer months and summer.
Neil Bolland
My name is Neil and I am the new Cartaker/Cleaner.
Former roles leading to this one
I have previous experience as a builder and plasterer.
Best part of job
I enjoy working with the team who have made me feel very welcome!
Most challenging part
Making tea for everyone.
