Governors

Simon started as a parent governor appointed in November 2018, after his initial term concluded he was co-opted back onto the governing body. He is a qualified Civil Engineer and brings over 25 years project management and leadership experience to the Board. Simon has 2 daughters, both at the school, so hopes to be associated with the school for many years to come.

He is passionate about the outdoors and believes that learning through adventure & experience is fundamental in children’s development so it’s no surprise he is a huge advocate of forest school.

“Regularly spending time in school I’ve found the atmosphere to be positive and inspiring. Volunteering is a great opportunity to work with the staff and other governors to contribute to an outstanding learning environment for our children”

Governor Details

Gill has been a governor at Hawkhurst since September 2019. She is a retired Headteacher having worked in a number of local primary schools. Gill is the Vice Chair of governors and chairs the Resources committee.

She lives in the village and is a member of the local Baptist Church.

Governor Details

Jodi is the head teacher of Hawkhurst CEP School. She took over the role in September 2017 having previously been the head teacher at Colliers Green CEP School.

“I am proud to be the Headteacher at Hawkhurst C.E. Primary School.  I have worked in education for 27 years having graduated from Kent University and my background is in Special Educational Needs, Child Protection and Behaviour Management. I believe all children should be given the opportunity to thrive in school and to receive an education tailored to their individual needs.”

Governor Details

Stephen is a foundation governor, appointed in 2019. Stephen has been teaching secondary Mathematics for 16 years following 25 years working as an accountant in industry. He is a former Churchwarden of St. Laurence Church and has been a member of the Choir there for 23 years. Stephen enjoys sport, particularly rugby and cricket (which he still plays) and music.

Governor Details

Jane is a Foundation Governor, appointed in 2018.

Jane is a retired midwife and nurse and has been a foster carer, mostly for teenagers. She is involved in girl guiding and is currently one of two regional safeguarding volunteers.

Jane has many interested and enjoys singing (and music in general), gardening and travel. She lives in a 4 generation household and has 2 grandsons attending Hawkhurst school.

“I am a very new to the governor role, so learning lots at the moment, but I like to think I can play a small part in making our village school the best it can possibly be.”

Governor Details

Judy has been a Governor in various church schools for over thirty years. She began work in theatre, then in motor racing following which, as a qualified social worker, ran homes for children in care and also trained as a counsellor.

Her interest in education was increased through work in schools and then as an Education Welfare Officer.

"I strongly believe that a pro-active and well-being focused attitude means that children can and should have a rounded education and the opportunity to achieve their potential in whatever sphere that may be."

Later, she had the privilege of being a priest in the Church of England and enjoys leading assemblies for the staff and pupils.

"I have one grandson at Hawkhurst and am looking forward to working with others on the Governing Board in this incredibly positive and caring school."

Governor Details

Father Rodney Dreyer is the Vicar at the nearby St Laurence Church. You can visit the Church website at https://stlaurencechurch-hawkhurst.org/.

Governor Details

Sophie Stevens is a parent governor appointed in December 2019.

Sophie is a joint company director of a Management consultancy with her husband. However, her current focus is as a full time Mum to their three children; aged five, two and one.

A creative person with a passionate love of food, interiors and travel, she also enjoys being outside and keeping active as a family.

Sophie is also passionate about education, both social and academic and is therefore keen to be involved and linked to the school in this role.

Governor Details

Bethan became the Staff Governor in 2024. 

She is currently the Year 4 (Green Class) Teacher.

Bethan grew up attending Hawkhurst CEP School and was pleased to return to complete her teacher training, qualifying in 2021. Bethan has a keen interest in behaviour and emotional wellbeing with a focus on helping all pupils experience success. She is currently completing her NPQ in Leading Behaviour and Culture and is supporting Mrs Poland and Mrs Paton with our application to become a Nurture UK school. 

Governor Details

Bob Firmin is a parent governor appointed in May 2023.

Formerly an ecologist with a love of the outdoors, where he helped responsible developments to protect and enhance our natural environment, he is now a civil servant and brings experience of evidence-based policy development, stakeholder engagement, and international negotiations.

His son will be joining his daughter at the school in September 2023. Bob is particularly interested in how to prepare children for the rapidly advancing technology and changing climate they will face in their futures.

Governor Details

Andrew Rose-Hall is a Co-opted governor appointed in May 2024.

More info coming soon.

Governor Details