My profession of 30 years has been teaching in schools in Portsmouth. After 15 years as a class teacher I spent a further 15 years as a Headteacher. Having retired from the latter position in August 2015, I am privileged to have been appointed Chair of Governors at Langstone Junior School and offer a lifelong career in education to the performance of this role. My aim is to use my knowledge, skills and experience in education to lead the Board of Governors in best serving and supporting the school community. Mrs. Bush, the Headteacher, has been a respected teaching colleague for a number of years. I believe that our mutual respect and understanding will assist us in maximising the effectiveness of the teaching / governing relationship. One of my immediate goals is to improve the effectiveness of the work we do as governors in the interests of pupils, staff and all stakeholders in the community. The overall goal is, by working as a team, to make Langstone Junior School a school of excellence where all pupils thrive and reach their full potential.

I have been a school governor for Langstone Junior School since January 2002. My current role is Chairman of the Safeguarding and Learning Committee which meets about twice a term. I fully support the school's vision, and I am ambitious for the children to continue to make progress in their learning to become fully rounded citizens as they develop 'self-belief' and experience life skills. It is my pleasure to lead the after school chess club, which is a popular weekly activity which strengthens the pupils strategic thinking and is FUN. My interests focus on family, scouting, reading and music.

I have been extremely fortunate to have spent 43 years in teaching, the last 17 being in Portsmouth schools, and education continues to be my passion. I spent many years as a class teacher and a senior leader before being appointed as a Deputy Headteacher in a large Primary school. I held this post for 10 years before retiring in July 2018. It has been a privilege to have worked alongside both your Headteacher, Jane Bush, as well as the Chair of Governors, Irene Baldry. I feel that after working closely together for many years, this professional understanding will enhance my effectiveness as part of the governing body. I hope to bring my experience and expertise in education to the table and support the aims of the school, staff and the Academy to ensure that we, as the governing body, work hard to achieve the very best for everyone in the school community.