Governors

Our Governing Board

Our purpose

The governing board exists to make sure Whaddon Church of England Primary School provides the best possible education and care for every child. We do this by offering strategic direction, constructive challenge, and strong community links. Our role is to support the headteacher and staff while ensuring the school continues to grow, improve, and stay true to its values.

Who we are

Our board is made up of volunteers from across the Whaddon community, including parents, staff, and people with professional experience in education, business, and public service. Some of us live in the village or have children at the school; others bring specialist expertise or a long-standing connection to Whaddon. We share a common belief that every child should feel known, valued, and encouraged to let their light shine.

How we work

Governors meet regularly to review the school’s progress, set priorities, and ensure resources are used effectively. We also visit the school to see learning in action and to understand how plans are working in practice. Each governor has a link area (such as curriculum, safeguarding, inclusion, or wellbeing) and works closely with staff to support that aspect of school life. Our visits are collaborative and respectful, aiming to build trust and provide insight rather than oversight.

Our values

Our work is guided by the ethos of the school: Compassion, Wisdom and Endurance. We believe that strong relationships and open communication are key to helping the school thrive. Governors act as critical friends: curious, supportive, and always focused on what is best for children and families.

Our impact

In recent years, governors have:

· Helped review and shape the school’s development priorities.

· Supported improvements in inclusion and wellbeing.

· Strengthened communication between families, staff, and governors.

· Contributed to preparations for the next Ofsted inspection.

Get involved

We welcome interest from anyone who would like to learn more about how the governing board works. If you’d like to find out more or attend a meeting as an observer, please contact the Clerk to Governors through the school office.

Verity is a civil servant and an experienced governor, having previously served on the governing board of a central London primary which went from an Ofsted rating of “Requires Improvement” to “Outstanding”. She moved to Whaddon in 2019 and joined the Board in 2020, keen to play a role in this very different school. She has two children who attend the school.

Mrs. Kim Clarke (co- vice chair Governor, CPW committee member, parent Governor, performance management Governor, Health & Safety Governor, SEND Governor, policy Governor, website Governor, art and DT Governor) 

My name is Kim Clarke and my daughter joined the school in 2022.  We have lived in Beachampton, since just before our daughter was born.

I left a career in Governance and change and project management to be a full-time mum and returned to work two years ago, managing content and communications for a local small legacy planning business.

My passions are: writing, crafting and getting lost in a great book. My husband Sam and I are both in love with Canada and plan to be living there, one day.

Mrs. Anne Tolfree (co- vice chair Governor, chair of CPW committee, parent Governor, development Governor, educational visits Governor, English Governor, Grants Governor) 

I'm Anne Tolfree and my son joined Whaddon School, in September 2023. I have lived in the village, since 2018 with my husband and step-child and three dogs. I am currently the Head of Talent Acquisition for DHL Supply Chain where I recruit for all Functional and Senior Operations roles.  When not working,  I love being outside, exercising and going away, in our "not finished" camper van!