Governor Organisation and Remits

Chair of Governors – Julie Nicholson

I first became a governor when my son started at Heathfield in Y1….. He’s now 21. I really wanted to be part of his education journey and felt being a Governor would be the best way. To have an insight into the inner workings of the school and the amazing job the staff do is truly amazing. 

After working in Banking for 35 years I took voluntary Redundancy to venture into something new and I now have  two day jobs! I work at Nottingham Trent University as a student financial advisor, where I support students with the complicated matter of student finance and managing their money, which is a challenge. I also work as a Business Growth Advisor, support businesses with their planning for growth. 

My finance background really adds value to the governing body when we are discussing budgets and how the money will be spent.  In my time as a governor I have seen the school grow and become two fantastic campuses not just for education but a place for lasting friendships to be made.

Vice chair/Co-Opted Governor – Ian Wood

I have been a Governor since October 2018 and by having a daughter at the Scotland Road Campus, I experience first-hand the dedication and professionalism of both the teaching and support staff across the school.  It is a real privilege to serve as a Parent Governor, representing the parent body and working alongside other talented and committed governors in helping ensure a high quality of education for all our children at Heathfield for many years to come.

I believe passionately that all children, irrespective of their social, economic or cultural upbringing are entitled to an outstanding educational experience, giving them the knowledge they need to make a success of their lives in the 21st Century.

I have been a science teacher and worked in school leadership for over 20 years and know how important Governing boards are in supporting and encouraging the leadership and management of a school.  I enjoy using my professional experience and knowledge to support our fantastic school and help drive its continued development and aspiration.  The aspects of the role of Governor I relish most are those that require us to provide fresh insight, ask challenging questions and provide necessary checks and balances to important financial, curriculum and school improvement decisions that help ensure that the academic progress, happiness and welfare of our children remain at the heart of all our plans.

Co-Opted Governor – Amelia Fraser

I was re elected as Parent Governor in October 2018 and I have loved being part of the team. I have two sons, my eldest left Heathfield a couple of years ago and my youngest is currently in Year 5 at the Scotland Road Campus.

My role as Parent Governor is extremely important to me and it is a responsibility I feel very lucky to have. Our children are very precious and they deserve the best opportunities we can give them.

Heathfield is an exceptional school with a very committed staff. Each one of them, whatever their role, has the very best interests of the children at heart. Being a member of the Governing Body gives me an insight into how the teachers and staff aim to achieve the goals. I hope to continue fulfil my role to the best of my ability and representing your views as parents to help Heathfield continue to improve and become an even better school that it already is.

Co-opted Governor – Sarah Thornton

I have three children that currently attend Heathfield -Scotland Road campus.  I also work from home part time in an administration capacity to a gas, plumbing and electrics company.

From the first visit when I viewed the school, I knew Heathfield was a special place and excellent choice for my children. I have always expressed an interest in what was going on within the school and on occasion engaged in correspondence.  I was delighted and eager to join the Governing Board when I was given the opportunity.

My main aim as a governor is to contribute to the school and make sure inclusivity/diversity is well supported in all areas for staff and students. I’m hoping to bring a different perspective and demographic to the table. I also want to help keep Heathfield a happy and welcoming place for all.

Co-opted Governor – Clair Taylor

I became a co-opted  governor in 2009. I was impressed with the wonderful ethos and learning environment that Heathfield provides from when I first registered my eldest daughter at the nursery in 2003. When a governor vacancy came up I embraced the chance to learn more about how the school is run and how I could support staff in championing the high standards and opportunities that are available for the children and families of Heathfield. 

Professionally I am a clinical nurse specialist at NUH Children’s Hospital. I think healthcare and education have lots of parallels. I can offer insight but from a different perspective. During my time as a governor I have seen the school go from strength to strength and although my own children have since left Heathfield I feel privileged to still be part of the governing body promoting the safety, well being and educational success of its  pupils.

Co-opted Governor – Pete Cumberland

I was appointed as a Co-opted governor of the school in 2016. I have been a governor in several schools within Nottingham over many years. I was a pupil at Heathfield many years ago when I think it used to be called Scotland Road School. I was pleased to become involved with the school again as a governor after so many years and have found it to be interesting to see how the school now operates in today’s ever changing political and financial climate.

My main aim as a governor at Heathfield is to support the Senior Leadership Team and staff  in providing the children with the best possible education in order for them to achieve their potential, before moving on to secondary education. Also, for the children to be happy and feel safe within the school.

Staff Governor – Patricia Downer

Vacancy:

• 1x co-opted Governor – if you are interested in the vacancy please contact the school office.  We would like someone to join our Governors with some experience of HR, Health and Safety, Finance or our diverse community.