Governors

Lead - Safeguarding, SEND
Subject areas - Safeguarding, SEND, PSHE/SRE

Appointed 22/09/2020
Appointed Chair 01/12/2021
Term of office 4 years

I am a retired Head Teacher and my husband and I have recently moved to Tiverton to enjoy an adventure in retirement. I have taught across all age ranges, mostly in the Catholic sector, and am currently a School and Parish Volunteer for CAFOD. Whilst working my main subject areas were Music, Performing Arts and French but I have many years of experience in, and a love for, teaching RE and an involvement in Chaplaincy. I am delighted to have become part of St John's family and look forward to supporting the School as it grows and develops.

Appointed 01/01/2021

I began teaching in 2000 and in 2004 joined Our Lady's Catholic Primary School. In 2007 I became Assistant Head and then in 2015 was made Principal. I was delighted to be offered the post of Executive Heateacher for St John's. Having worked closely with the previous head and the school's ESM, I know I have joined a team dedicated to making this school a wonderful place to learn for our pupils.

Appointed 22/09/2023

Term of office 4 years

Parish Priest
Lead - RE and Catholic Life, Health and Safety
Subject areas - RE and Catholic Life

Appointed 05/10/2020
Term of office 4 years

Lead - Curriculum and Standards
Subject areas - Science and Music

Early Life and Education

I was born in Barnstaple, UK, but spent my early years in Hong Kong, experiencing a different educational system until I was 10 years old. Upon returning to the UK, I attended Heathcoat Middle School, followed by Tiverton High School. My academic journey continued at East Devon College (now PETROC), and I eventually earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Statistics and Economics, followed by a Master of Business Administration (MBA).


Professional Career

My professional career began as a financial consultant, where I demonstrated significant expertise and leadership, eventually progressing to the position of regional manager. With a passion for strategic development and organizational improvement, I transitioned into business consultancy, specializing as a strategist. In this role, I focused on enhancing organizational structures and core strategies, leveraging my extensive experience and knowledge to drive business success.


Entrepreneurial Ventures and Personal Interests

Alongside my professional career, I have successfully taken over the family business, demonstrating my entrepreneurial acumen. In addition to my business pursuits, I have a passion for golf, a hobby I have developed to a professional level, becoming a certified golf coach. This blend of business and personal interests underscores my diverse skill set and commitment to excellence in various fields.


Commitment to Education and Community

My dedication to education and community involvement is evident through my decision to serve as a school governor at St. John's. With a strong academic background and a diverse professional portfolio, I bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role. My family has deep ties to St. John's, with siblings, nieces, nephews, and my own daughters attending the school. This personal connection has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the school's history, challenges, and achievements.

My eldest daughter has just completed her journey from reception to year 6 at St. John's and is now transitioning to high school. Witnessing the school's evolution and progress first-hand has reinforced my commitment to contributing positively to its future. My younger daughter is set to move up to year 1, further motivating me to extend another term as a parent governor.


Vision for the Future

One of my key focuses as a school governor is to enhance communication between the school and parents. I believe that more frequent updates about school activities and the dedicated efforts of the teaching and support staff are crucial in fostering a strong school community. I am passionate about ensuring that St. John's remains an excellent place for children to grow, develop, and receive a high-quality education.

With a blend of professional expertise, personal dedication, and a clear vision for the future, I am committed to supporting St. John's in its ongoing mission to provide an outstanding educational environment for all its students.

Appointed 29/09/2020

Term of office 4 years

Lead - Deputy Safeguarding
Subject areas - Safeguarding

Appointed 04/01/2022

Term of office 4 years

Lead - RE and Deputy Safeguarding
Subject areas - RE and Catholic Life, Maths and Computing

Having worked in London for 25 years in Tropical Diseases, my husband and I retired to Devon 6 years ago for a quieter pace of life and a garden. My teaching experience was limited to adults in tertiary education in both the UK and developing countries in the laboratory diagnosis of Tropical Diseases. Since moving to Tiverton, I feel very privileged in belonging to the vibrant and friendly parish of St James and St Boniface where I enjoy being part of the active life of the parish. I also enjoy other community aspects of Tiverton out with the Church.

Appointed 10/10/2022
Term of office 4 years
Lead - Inclusion

Subject areas - RE and Catholic Life
I have had a diverse and fulfilling career spanning over three decades. In 2000, I trained as a teacher. Before becoming a teacher, I worked as a social worker, an experience that has given me valuable insights into the unique needs and backgrounds of individuals. This background has proven to be a tremendous asset in my teaching career, where I've had the privilege of working with students of all ages, from toddlers to adults.

Throughout my teaching career, I've worked in various educational settings, including primary schools, international schools, and specialised units for children with significant learning challenges, including those with autism. These experiences have honed my commitment to fostering inclusive education.

I've taken on a role as a Governor at St. John's since October 2022. In this capacity, I oversee Inclusion and also RE and Catholic life.

Additionally, I'm an active member of the Children's Liturgy team at St. James, where I regularly lead the Children's Liturgy during Sunday Mass.

Appointed: 07/12/2023
Term of Office: 4 years

Tom joined the Local CAST Board as a Parent Governor in December 2023. He is currently a Head of Year and teaches Maths and PE at Uffculme School.

Appointed: 01/07/2024
Term of Office: 4 years

Shelagh joined the LCB in June 2024 as a Foundation Governor.

Appointed 01/09/2023
Claire works as a Clerk to Governors for several CAST schools and has been a Clerk since 2013.

If you would like to contact any of the governors or would like more information on becoming a governor or copies of any LCB Meeting minutes, please contact Claire on clerk@olcs.uk