Governance

The Trust’s Articles of Association, Memorandum of Association, Terms of Reference for a LGB and Scheme of Delegation for Governance can be viewed on the Trust website via the TCAT Governance Documents link in the menu provided. Click here to link to the Trust website page.

Primary Local Board

Dean Grainger (Chair and Safeguarding Link)

I am the Chair of Governors and Safeguarding Link Governor for Penshurst Primary School.

I have a professional background in working with children and families and I have had the privilege of doing so for 14 years. I have worked in Youth Services, Family Support, Specialist Education and Child Protection. I am a qualified Social Worker and have been since 2014. More recently I have managed various Child Protection and Safeguarding Services.

I have an absolute dedication to improving the lives and opportunities for children and young people and in keeping them safe. I want the best for all children at Penshurst and love to see the successes of the school community.

In my personal life I am fortunate enough to have 3 amazing children and I would say we lead a busy, fun filled life. I am a proud Geordie supporting Newcastle United, I love cooking, eating out, hiking and spending time with family and friends.

Emily Lucid (Staff Welfare Link)

I've worked at Penshurst for 12 years and have taught in every year group throughout the school. I have been the sports lead in the past and I am currently the RE and Phonics lead. This experience and understanding of the day-to-day life of a school, as well as the primary curriculum, will empower me in my Staff Governor role to support and help to further develop Penshurst as it continues to offer all the children who attend a high-quality education.

Mike Peck (Attendance Link)

I am a Trust Appointed Governor at Penshurst Primary School and the Lead Solutions Architect at KCOM. As a parent with a child at the school, I am passionate about ensuring all pupils receive a high-quality education.

My professional background includes experience in IT curriculum development, safeguarding, and internet safety, which I bring to my role on the governing board. I became a governor to support the school in achieving its goals and fostering a positive learning environment. Outside of work and governance, I enjoy climbing, mountain biking, and exploring the outdoors.

Michelle Preston - Head of School

After graduating from DeMontfort University in Lincoln, I moved into a career in design and then retail. However, it was during this time that I discovered my true passion: engaging with children It was only when I spent more time talking to children than adults that I realised I wanted to pursue a career in education.

I began my teaching career in 2010 through the GTP programme and have taught in almost every primary year group since then. My first experience of teaching in Year 6 came when I moved to Penshurst Primary School in 2014.

Following my role as Assistant Head for Curriculum, I became Associate Head of School in September 2022 and then Head of School later that school year; I cannot imagine being a leader in any other school.

I am passionate about children having access to an exciting, engaging curriculum that fills them with the knowledge and skills to thrive, whatever their background or ability. By far the highlight of my week is being able to sit in our new library with learners and hand out Head of School Graduate Awards following their dedication to independent learning. Their success and happiness are my mission and I look forward to supporting pupils now and in the future to achieve the extraordinary.

Anne Jessop (Vice Chair and Behaviour Link)

I am a Trust Appointed Governor at Penshurst Primary School and am currently the Behaviour Link.

After working in the NHS for many years as a Therapeutic Radiographer I trained in education and became a Senior Lecturer at Sheffield Hallam University teaching radiotherapy and oncology at both under graduate and postgraduate level.

My qualifications include an MSc in Radiotherapy, BA (hons) education and training and a management and leadership diploma and have also completed an in house clinical supervision course. I have contributed to textbooks and had work published in radiology journals. Subjects I have taught include anatomy and physiology, radiation physics, collaborative working and clinical practice.

After retiring from the university I worked at Weston Park Cancer Centre in Sheffield supporting staff development and post graduate study.

I am currently working as an exam invigilator at Hessle High School.

Danny Garton (SEND Link)

I have a varied background through financial and customer service type roles but moving to a career in education in 2010 I have found a place where I can make a difference.

I have now worked with all age groups in education covering Primary, Secondary, Further Education and Higher Education, I feel this experience gives me a good understanding in my role as governor.

I am dedicated to raising outcomes for learners and giving them the best opportunity to succeed in life. I am currently the SEND Link Governor.

Clare Thorley

I have been a Trust Appointed Governor at Penshurst Primary School governors since October 2020, I am very passionate about education delivery and the support services children receive through their education journey, ensuring every child has the opportunities to achieve their aspirations.

I have worked in the education sector in the support services area for over 20 years covering Primary, Secondary and now Further Education, I feel this gives me the knowledge and insight to support and challenge education delivery as part of the governing body team.

David Thomas

Professionally for the last 20 years I have served in the Royal Air Force in the Aircraft Engineering branch. In this time, I have worked as a Maintainer, Technician, Supervisor and Inspector. Currently I work on a Typhoon squadron in Lincolnshire.

As my child attends Penshurst Primary School I have a keen interest in their future, and I am acting in the role of Parent Governor for them and all children who attend the school. Coming from outside the education system I am eager to observe and learn myself how the school leaders make decisions and on behalf of all parents, challenging them to produce the best for our children.

Governors, attendance and declaration of interests:

Penshurst Local Governing Board 2024/25

Penshurst Local Governing Board 2023/24

Penshurst Local Governing Board 2022/23

Penshurst Local Governing Board 2021/22

Secondary Local Board
Matt Benson - Chair (Behaviour Link)
Vince Groak
Andy Haynes (Safeguarding Link)
Adam Brannon (SEND Link)
Liz Kenny (Attendance Link)
Ian Frankish (Vice Chair and Curriculum Link)
Helen Marshall (Careers Link)
Rachel Bird
Andrea Carlill
Laura Leeman

Governors, attendance and declaration of interests:

Hessle Local Governing Board 2024/25

Hessle Local Governing Board 2023/24

Hessle Local Governing Board 2022/23

Hessle Local Governing Board 2021/22

Meeting Calendar

Rationale

The intention of providing Members/Governors with an annual schedule for meetings is to:

Ensure Trust Members meet legal financial requirements
To ensure Members/Governors hit crucial evaluation agendas in the school year
To make the most efficient use of Member/Governor time
To act as a ‘critical friend’ to the Leadership Team of the Academy at key times in the decision-making process