Governance

We would like to introduce ourselves as the governors at The Mary Towerton School at Studley Green.

As governors our aim is make a real difference to young people at our school, and to give something back to the local community by using and developing our skills in a board-level environment.

Our governing board has a balance and diversity of skills, experience and professional knowledge. We bring these experiences, perspectives and insights in to decision-making in the interests of the whole school community.

We work closely with the management of the school in providing strategic leadership by monitoring and evaluating the progress the school is making. We strive to be both a source of challenge and support. In order to do this, we oversee the financial performance of the school and provide clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction.

Part of the code of practice guidance for us as a school governing board is based in the Public Life Principles of:

· Selflessness –we do what we do, solely in terms of the interest of school

· Integrity – our judgements are based on the best for Mary Towerton

· Objectivity – choices are based on merit and the impact on pupils

· Accountability – we are accountable and ensure we are fit for purpose in our role

· Openness – we will give reasons for our decisions

· Honesty – all we do is open and with no private interest

· Leadership – we promote and support these principles by example

As governors, we take these principles seriously and continually ask ourselves as we go about our different tasks,

“What positive impact are we making on the future of the pupils at Mary Towerton”.

We are an expanding school with an additional classroom and facilities due to be completed by September 2019. By September 2020 we will have the full Primary age range of pupils from Reception through to Year 6. We see this as a wonderful opportunity to guide pupils through their significant primary years.

Our school is situated in an area of outstanding natural beauty, giving rich learning opportunities both indoors and outside. We are pleased to see pupils happy and with good attitudes to their learning. We promote positive values and strive to offer the best possible learning experience for our pupils. Pupils take our school values of politeness, responsibility, happiness, honesty, kindness and unity seriously.

Our Governors

Mrs B Allison - Chair of Governors (Equality & Diversity, PE/Sports Governor)

For many years I have worked with schools and early years organisations both in the UK and overseas. This has included going through a number of changes and developments with schools, some of which are similar to the wonderful opportunities facing Mary Towerton.  I am very excited to be part of the team here, and I look forward to working with everyone involved to achieve the changes smoothly and successfully.

Mrs B Sparks - Vice Chair of Governors, LA Governor.  (SEND and Safeguarding)  

I have always enjoyed working with children- at different ages over the years, from age 0 to 18. When I retired from teaching in an infant school, I looked for a school where I might become a governor. Complete chance brought me to Mary Towerton - and I wouldn't want it to be any other way now!  I enjoy being in school with the children, and being part of the running of it too.

Mrs S Morgan (Associate)

I have been involved with Mary Towerton School since 2002, when our son started here. First as a parent, and then in the spring of 2004, we started the Garden Club. Although both of our children had moved on by 2006, I couldn't bear to leave the school, so I became a governor then, and also continued running the Garden Club. I love working with the children, and enjoy their enthusiasm for growing and eating different vegetables. We live in Studley Green, so I am part of the local community. I also teach Linguistics at Redcliffe College in Gloucester part of the year.

Mrs L McMeekin (Co-opted) Chair of Resources (Pupil Premium, H&S)

I have been a governor at Mary Towerton since 2013 having retired from a long teaching career locally, in London and overseas.  Since retirement I have enjoyed travelling in term time, gardening and working my allotment when I feel like it rather than when I found time and spending lots of time making memories with my family and friends.  I am delighted to be a member of the Mary Towerton Governing Board working together with staff, parents and our local community as we move forward into the exciting times ahead.

Mr B Stokes (Parent, EYFS)

I have known The Mary Towerton School for many years with relatives having attended the school some years ago. My daughter is now at the school, and I am pleased to be a governor at this exciting time where the school expands and grows. I am looking forward to the opportunity to assist in the future development of the school.

Mrs C Greenway (Parent) Educational visits

Relatively new to the area and parenthood, we decided to move from London to Studley Green with 2 small children and a newborn, influenced mainly by the area’s wonderful, welcoming community and quality schooling. Both as parents and neighbours of The Mary Towerton, we are extremely fortunate to have the school within our community and were delighted when it expanded to Primary status. Our boys love the school and we’ve seen their learning achievements and confidence blossom in its nurturing environment. I’m looking forward to supporting the school, parents and children in my role as governor as it continues to grow.

Mrs K Grafham (Headteacher)

I joined the school as Head teacher in September 2015 and I thoroughly enjoy working with the Governing Board. We have a clear strategic vision for the school and have a set of Values which are embedded throughout the life of the school. I am lucky to be able to teach throughout the school so I know all of our pupils well. Every day is different and that is what makes school life so varied.