Welcome to our Governors’ section

Governors are responsible for overseeing the management side of a school: strategy, policy, budgeting and staffing. They enable our school to run as effectively as possible, working alongside the Leadership Team and supporting teachers to provide excellent education to children. Being a school governor is a commitment to attending the LGB meetings which consider issues such as setting the school vision, mitigating financial risk and scrutinising educational outcomes. They are also involved in the school community, acting as critical friends to the headteacher.  Governors bring a wide range of skills and expertise from their professional lives to the governing board and schools benefit greatly from working with skilled volunteers, for example anyone with experience of finance, law, premises management or human resources

Name:             Linda Wright (Foundation)

Personal Statement:  I took early retirement from Ford Motor Co. in 2005, where I worked as a Production Buyer for more than 30 years, responsible for the sourcing and pricing of many vehicle  components to production plants.  I then worked as a Primary School class teacher in Brentwood until 2013 when I started doing voluntary work at Downham School.  I represent the interests of the Diocese on the Governing Body. 

Name:             Susan Walker (Co-opted)                 

Personal Statement:  I am a retired primary school teacher with 25 years experience, 15 of which as Deputy Head.  I am a member of Ramsden Heath Allotments Working Party; elected representative for Ramsden Heath ward on South Hanningfield Parish Council where I chair the Parks and Open Spaces Working Party;  member of Ramsden Heath Village Hall management committee.

Name:             Ian Hawkes (Co-opted)                                

Personal Statement:  I am a retired Chartered Surveyor whose role has included inspecting and preparing maintenance schedules for schools.  Since January 2015 I have volunteered at Downham Primary  to assist with general maintenance and now I am using my skills to help promote a safe environment for pupils. 

Name:             Heather Elms (Co-Opted)

Personal Statement:  I have experience as a teacher at Secondary Level specialising in Home Economics and Textiles and was Head of Department for a number of years.  I also have experience in tutoring at Further Adult Education.

Name:             David Hinnigan (Parent Governor)

Personal Statement: I have been a secondary school teacher for over 18 years.  I am currently an Assistant Headteacher in charge of behaviour, reward, student well-being, enrichment and the deputy safeguarding lead.