Governors’ Information and Duties

Born and educated in Liverpool. Taught in Merseyside, Canada and London. Retired Head Teacher of 3 Primary schools in the State and Independent sectors in London and Essex. As a former School Improvement Partner in the London Borough of Newham, she worked very closely with a wide range of diverse Primary and Nursery schools to raise standards.  She worked with staff and governors on school improvement, progress and attainment , analysing and interpreting data.

Sue is on the Academy Committee as she has always been passionate about primary education. Now that she is retired, she would like to use the knowledge and skills she has developed in her own working life, to benefit and make a difference to the children of Parkwood Academy.

Member of Religious Community who since 2003 has been living in, Chelmsford; working with, families and others on the Melbourne Estate so in contact with many Parkwood children and parents.  She has worked to support the school over many years and has observed its very positive development. She runs several groups on the estate, one of which is Homework Club which happens twice a week and includes several Parkwood pupils. Formerly, Head teacher of New Hall Boarding Day Independent School for children aged 4-18.

A love of learning is the single most important gift that we can pass on to our children. As a parent of four, in various classes within Parkwood Academy, I am deeply committed to the education and well-being of our community and children. It is an absolute joy to witness the positive impact that a high-quality education can have on individuals and the community as a whole.

Professionally I’m a Regional IT Manager for First Bus. Whilst based out of Chelmsford, I’m responsible for around 600 users spread across Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk and Ireland. This involves the day-to-day management of our IT systems, managing costs, and improving processes through the use of technology. Automation (and the use of AI-powered tools) is my current area of interest. I have a genuine passion for fostering a nurturing and inclusive learning environment where everyone can thrive and reach their full potential. At a personal level, I’m a committed Christian, and the values I focus on most heavily are radical generosity, extravagant kindness, compassion and a humble service in all of my endeavours.

Lastly, I am a firm believer in transparency, accountability, and community engagement. I see the Academy Committee as an essential bridge between the Board of Directors and the school. By joining the committee, I aim to facilitate open communication, encourage collaboration, and ensure that the voices of all stakeholders are heard and considered.

I am excited to join you as part of the academic committee at Parkwood Academy. I think I will prove useful in this role, particularly looking at the curriculum. In addition to this, as a teacher with experience teaching at an outstanding school, I would like to think that I offer a range of useful and relevant perspectives to the role.

I am very interested in learning more about how a school runs and everything that goes into making that happen – from attendance and safeguarding to monitoring grants and reaching goals whilst staying within budget.

Mr Chapman is a valued member of our Academy Committee, bringing a wealth of experience from his career as a senior executive officer for the civil service. Now retired, he dedicates his time and expertise to supporting the school, with a particular focus on ensuring that our curriculum remains current and engaging.

Mr Chapman plays a key role in helping us maintain accurate assessments and works closely with staff to ensure that children not only enjoy their learning but also retain knowledge through exciting topics and memorable experiences.

I have been a civil servant for over 40 years and have experience of staff management, supporting senior officials and ministers, drafting official correspondence and legislation. I represent the UK in various technical and policy working groups both at home and abroad.

I have worked in several government departments in areas ranging from welfare benefits, transport planning, and licensing through to international diplomacy.

As a governor I will bring my experience and knowledge of working with senior and junior stakeholders and drafting skills and as I approach retirement I am looking for worthwhile activities where I can promote fairness, equality and efficiency for and in the community.

I qualified as a teacher in 2010 and have experience of staff management, early years lead and phonics practitioner. I am a mother of my 18 month old son and I work full-time.

I am currently working in a school in Dagenham where we are a Little Wandle teaching school (Little Wandle is a phonics scheme).

As a governor I will bring my experience and knowledge of working in education. My time is limited but I would like to help another school become better and share my expertise to do this.