Governors

Welcome to the Governors Information Page

Co-chairs of Governors: Cassie Gillett & Libby Hughes      

What do the Governors do?

The three main functions of the governing body are to:

• develop the ethos, vision and strategic direction of the school
• hold the school leader to account to ensure that every pupil has the best possible education
• oversee the financial performance of the school and make sure its money is well spent

The governors are not responsible for the day to day management of the school - this is the Headteacher's role. The Headteacher and Senior Leadership Team are also responsible for the implementation of the strategic framework established by the governing body, the implementation of the school's policies and the internal organisation of the school.

The full governing body formally meet together each half term to discuss topics from school performance, review policies and approve the budget. Some governors are also responsible for particular aspects of school life and all governors visit the school regularly to learn and observe.

We are always pleased to hear from parents and stakeholders with views, questions and issues. In particular, we'd love to hear from anyone with an interest in becoming a governor. There are no specific qualifications or requirements for the role; you don't need to be a parent or have a background in education, we're just looking for a balance and diversity of backgrounds, knowledge, skills and experience and commitment to helping the school excel.

You can contact us through the school office and one of us will get back to you as soon as possible. You can find out a little more about each of our governors below, and statutory information about the board can be viewed at the bottom of the page.

Meet Our Governors

Libby Hughes - Co-chair of Governors

Parent governor

I joined Birchwood Avenue’s governing board in 2018 as a parent governor, when my oldest child was in Year 1. I wanted to do something to support the school community that was serving my family and help the leadership team deliver its vision to enable every children grow and achieve their potential. I now have three children at the school and I love watching them enjoy learning each day. 

My professional background is as a Principal Statistician within the government; currently specialising in strategic workforce planning. Along with Cassandra I co-chair the governing board, and am the link governor for Pupil Premium and oversee the school’s support for Early Career Teachers.

Cassandra Gillett - Co-chair of Governors

Parent governor

I have been a parent governor for the last 4 years. I am a mum of 4, my eldest is 18 and all have attended Birchwood Avenue Primary School, so I have been a part of the school community for the last 15 years and watched it change and grow. 

As well as co-chairing the board, I am the safeguarding lead, and enjoy getting a chance to talk to our parents, staff and children to help our school motivate and nurture lifelong learning.

James Walker

Co-opted governor

I became a governor when I left my teaching role at Birchwood to become a full-time SENCo in Sept 2020.  I have served terms as a parent governor at other schools (my son is now 18) and been a staff governor at previous schools where I have worked. Having been a teacher for over 25 years now, I try and bring some of that experience to the governing body along with a passion for supporting the children and families with SEND.

Nick Read

Head teacher

I joined Birchwood Avenue Primary School as Headteacher in 2019. Prior to this, I had the wonderful experience of working in a range of primary Hertfordshire schools for 10 years, including another Headship and other Senior Leadership positions for 7 years. Hertfordshire is a diverse county and each school has allowed me to enhance my knowledge and skillset, working with unique opportunities and challenges that school life brings.

My professional passions are teaching pedagogy and planning; the primary English curriculum; and the therapeutic approach to behaviour management. I am at my happiest when I am in the classroom teaching or supporting and working alongside other teachers to further develop their own practice.

Jason Gillett

Parent governor

Jason is a director at a local asbestos removal company, Jason's main role and responsibility is to take an overview of the execution of the contracts delivered by Asbestech, working closely with his team to ensure that they successfully deliver the high standards demanded by themselves and their clients. As part of the senior leadership team within his remit is also helping to ensure compliance with relevant SHEQ regulations and helping to ensure the company’s financial performance allows them to meet their goals. 

Jason has had children attending Birchwood Avenue since 2008 and currently has 1 child at the school. Outside of work Jason enjoys spending time carrying out as many different types of activities with his family with hiking being a particular favourite pastime.

Anne Davis

Co-opted governor

Having lived in Hatfield for over 40 years, I have a great affection for Birchwood Avenue. My three grown up children attended, and I was a member of support staff for many years. 

In the past I have served as a staff Governor, and returned in 2018 as a co-opted member of the Governing body. I hope, in this role, to continue making a worthwhile and active contribution to the school.

Alison Mowatt

Staff governor

I have been a member of staff at Birchwood Avenue since 2014 and have served as staff governor for the last two years. I enjoy bringing my experience of education, and our school specifically, to the governing board. 

Jennifer  Seaton Ulliott

Associate Member

Nathasia Robertse

Associate Member

A natural carer with much experience helping others through many difficulties in South Africa. This taught me resilience, compassion and how to retain a positive attitude. Originally a highly motivated and experienced professional mostly in the real estate field. Having immigrated from South Africa recently, and having a young family commitment, I sought a community that felt like home. Birchwood Avenue became this for us.

Nothando Tawoderza

Associate Member

Takudzwa Mumbure

Associate Member

Caroline Greening

Clerk