CO-OPTED GOVERNOR/TRUST GOVERNOR CHAIR OF GOVERNING BOARD CHAIR OF RESOURCES COMMITTEE

I have lived in the beautiful Southwest for about 40 years now and bring 26 years of experience as a civil servant, where I was leading projects and managing teams. I volunteer regularly in my area and I’m very much looking forward to contributing to the local community further as a Governor. I believe that now more than ever, our young people need support to navigate life successfully. I love spending time with my family and am a keen gardener.

CO-OPTED GOVERNOR

With an unwavering commitment and passion for improving the outcomes for all learners, I have taught and led in the education sector for over 15 years. I am Deputy Principal (Curriculum and Quality) at a local Further Education College and enthusiastic about continually enhancing learning experiences through innovative and responsive curriculum opportunities alongside aspirational teaching and learning strategies. Throughout my professional career, both in employment and through my voluntary roles, I work with the strong belief that all students deserve the best learning experience to enable them to realise their full potential as valued members of society. I live in Plymouth with my wife and two young children and it’s an absolute pleasure to be able to contribute to the school’s ambitions and play a part in its future success.

STAFF GOVERNOR

My name is Katherine Elliot, I work at Whitleigh Primary as a KS1 teacher. I have always lived and worked in Plymouth. I studied English Literature and Education Studies for 3 years at the University College of St Mark and St John and then worked as a teaching assistant for 1 year before deciding to do my PGCE in primary teaching. This is now my 5th year of teaching and in order to be fully engaged in my role, I felt it would be beneficial to be a part of the governing body where I can find out more about the way in which the school is run.

CO-OPTED GOVERNOR VICE CHAIR OF GOVERNING BOARD

I’m originally from Worcestershire and moved to Plymouth for university where I studied Primary Education. Following university, I worked as a supply teacher across Devon and Cornwall before securing my first teaching job in Plymouth. After 5 years teaching at the same school, I took up my current role within the Salvation Army as Children and Families Outreach Coordinator for Plymouth in order to pursue my passion for supporting and empowering the whole family to achieve success. I am an enthusiastic musician and spend a lot of my spare time playing in brass band. I am also a proud auntie and love spending time with my family. I am pleased to continue and broaden my work within schools through my role as a Governor.

CO-OPTED GOVERNOR

I am originally from a farming family in Somerset and moved to Plymouth for university, where I studied Marine Biology and Coastal Ecology. During my time at university, I fell in love with the area and have called it home ever since. Following graduation, I began working in the technology sector before transitioning into the public sector to start my career, where I now focus on safeguarding children and vulnerable adults from abuse. Outside of work, I remain passionate about technology, whether that’s experimenting with new gadgets or unwinding with video games. I also enjoy spending time outdoors with my partner and dog, often exploring Dartmoor or the coast, where we can usually be found rock pooling or snorkelling. A lifelong Formula 1 fan, I have followed the sport since childhood—though I’ve yet to experience a race in person! I strongly believe in transparency, fairness, and amplifying the voice of the child. I am excited to take on the role of school Governor and contribute to the continued success of both schools in the years ahead.

PRINCIPAL, SIR JOHN HUNT CSC

HEADTEACHER, WHITLEIGH COMMUNITY PRIMARY SCHOOL