The Governing Body plays a crucial role in the effective management and strategic direction of a maintained school. It operates as the school's legal entity and is responsible for ensuring that the school meets its educational objectives while complying with statutory requirements. Below is an overview of the key functions and responsibilities of the Governing Body in our school:
1. Strategic Leadership
- Accountability: The Governing Body is accountable for all strategic decisions made within the school. It must ensure that these decisions are made in the best interest of the school and its pupils.
- Delegation: While the Governing Body can delegate certain governance functions to committees or individuals, it retains overall responsibility for all decisions made.
- Informed Decision-Making: The Governing Body must make decisions based on evidence and best practises, considering the impact on staff workload and wellbeing.
2. Compliance with Regulations
- Statutory Duties: The Governing Body must adhere to various statutory duties, including those outlined in the Education Act 2002 and the School Staffing (England) Regulations 2009.
- Policy Development: It is responsible for developing and implementing key policies, including those related to staff employment, school uniform, and safeguarding arrangements.
3. Financial Oversight
- Budget Management: The Governing Body must oversee the school's budget and ensure that financial resources are used effectively to support educational objectives.
- Pay Policy: It is responsible for maintaining a robust pay policy that complies with statutory provisions and reflects the school's commitment to fair remuneration for staff - this is provided by Swindon Borough Council.
4. Risk Management
- Risk Assessment: The Governing Body must implement a risk management framework to identify, manage, and record risks that may impact the school’s operations and objectives.
- Safeguarding: It must ensure that appropriate risk assessments are in place to safeguard the welfare of pupils, staff, and visitors.
5. Engagement with Stakeholders
- Parental Engagement: The Governing Body has a statutory duty to consider parental views and engage with parents and the local community to build trust and shared ownership of the school's vision.
- Community Involvement: It should foster relationships with community stakeholders, including local organisations and religious bodies, to enhance the school's role within the community.
6. Continuous Improvement
- Self-Evaluation: The Governing Body should regularly evaluate its own effectiveness and seek ways to improve its governance practises.
- Training and Development: Members are encouraged to participate in training and development opportunities to ensure they are well-informed and equipped to fulfil their roles effectively.
In summary, the Governing Body serves as the backbone of a maintained school, ensuring that it operates effectively, meets legal obligations, and provides a high-quality education for all pupils. Its strategic leadership, compliance with regulations, financial oversight, and engagement with stakeholders are essential for the continuous improvement of the school.
If you would like to contact the governing body, you can do so by emailing them at clerk@chiseldon.swindon.sch.uk or by sending a letter to school with Private & Confidential Chair of Governors, Chiseldon Primary & Nursery School, Castle View Road, Chiseldon, Swindon, SN4 0NS.
The Governing Body
All Governors are elected for a 4 year period.
Co-opted governors are appointed by the governors.
Staff governors are elected by all employed staff.
Parent governors are elected by parents of registered pupils at the school.
Jenny Jefferies
Chair of Governors
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Jenny Jefferies
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Spencer Allen
Headteacher & Ex Officio
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Spencer Allen
I have been dedicated to education since 1994, passionately supporting children's learning and development throughout my career. My commitment to ensuring that all children receive the best possible start in life drives my work as a Headteacher at school. I firmly believe that every child deserves access to high-quality education, and I strive to create an inclusive environment where all pupils can thrive. My enthusiasm for school improvement work allows me to collaborate with a diverse range of schools, sharing best practises and innovative strategies to enhance educational outcomes.
In addition to my role at Chiseldon, I also engage with Ofsted, contributing to the evaluation and improvement of educational standards across schools. Outside of my professional commitments, I enjoy cooking and reading, which provide me with both relaxation and inspiration. I am particularly passionate about sustainability and actively seek to reduce waste and promote environmental awareness, aligning my personal interests with my commitment to fostering a better future for our children and the planet.
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Nick Hatcliffe
Co-opted Governor & Deputy Headteacher
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Nick Hatcliffe
Co-opted Governor & Deputy Headteacher
I’m Nick Hatcliffe, Deputy Headteacher at Chiseldon Primary and Nursery School. I’m passionate about teaching, learning, and making the most of outdoor education to inspire and engage children. I’ve been a school governor for the past six years and currently serve as a governor at another local primary school, where I enjoy supporting school improvement and sharing best practices across communities.
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Helen Dickson
Staff Governor
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Graeme Leighfield
Parent Governor
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Graeme Leighfield
Proud Dad to Lucas and Ollie in the school, and a very present parent Governor! Graeme is the Managing Director/Founder of the Creative Agency GEL Studios, and brings his experience of finance, business and leadership to the governing board.
Tip - for end of year trips, Graemes' group is the one to be a part of. Proudly boasting 12 rides in a single day for Legoland Windsor!
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Matthew Hinton
Co-opted Governor
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Lynn Mayneord
Co-opted Governor
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Gillian Barret
Co-opted Governor
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Gillian Barret
Having thirty eight years experience in education as a teacher and Headteacher, I aim now semi-retired and work now as director of education for a special school, sixth form college and adult education programme. I am delighted to be able to serve as a governor and hope to be able to contribute to the continuous growth and development of the school. My particular skills and knowledge are linked to curriculum development, understanding how children learn and special educational needs.In my spare time I am a keen golfer and enjoy skiing. I have a passion for rugby and have been a season ticket holder with Leicester Tigers for twenty years and regularly travel to Welford Road to support the lads. I am a keen guitarist and play lead and bass guitar.
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Lynne Fletcher
Clerk to Governors
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Lynne Fletcher
As a school business professional and leader, Lynne has extensive experience in school business management and governance, gained from working in the education sector for more than 30 years, working in all Education sectors (2-19 years) following a successful career in banking.
Lynne is a former National Leader in Governance and a Lead Schools Resource Management Advisor (accredited by the DfE) alongside being a Fellow of the Institute of School Business Leaders.
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Our 3-Year Strategic Plan
Read our 3-Year Strategic Plan
