Professional Skills/ Background: 

I am finding it almost unbelievable to say that I've been in education for thirty years in four very different schools in both the independent and state sector. I've done so many roles!  In the 1990s, I gained a lot when I trained in what was, at the time, the biggest comprehensive in Birmingham with a ten-form entry. My last role was Head of Humanities. 

I have also been the PSHE Coordinator, having oversight over careers education.  My main focus was an RE Coordinator, teaching KS2-KS5 and I also had over a decade as the Head of KS3/Head of Lower School. I created a E-safety role too because I became increasingly aware of the perils, problems and potential too of the online world. Thus, I was involved in safeguarding which was interesting and challenging too.

I have enjoyed being a Form Tutor in Key Stage Three and have had the pleasure of seeing generations flourish and several individuals come through great challenges.  

Interest in being a Governor:

Unfortunately, arthritis got the better of me so I have taken early retirement, but I am keen to continue being active in education in a different capacity.

The importance of education is something I'm passionate about as well as family history. Not so many generations ago, my Yorkshire ancestors were illiterate; how things have changed with two of their several time great-grand daughters having Masters degrees, mine from Leeds. Both my grannies had to leave school at 14 to contribute to the family income. My grandfather needed to go to Night School to get the relevant qualifications to become a policeman in the 1930s.

I'm an indulgent Auntie great Auntie to many and that has helped me have a 360 degrees view about the ups and downs of school. 

Your advice/quote for the children of Bridgewater School:

"Dream more, learn more, care more and be more" - from the late great Dolly Parton