Governor Profiles

 Mark Browne
Chair of Governing Board (Co-opted Governor)

I have lived in East Ilsley since 2008 with my partner Helen and we have three children who have all been through the Ilsleys. I have been a school Governor since 2011, and was Chair at the Ilsleys for the four years leading up to the Federation with Hampstead Norreys. I started my career as a teacher in 1996, before taking up an education position in the Civil Service, later becoming a local area Director for the Learning and Skills Council.  I currently work for West Berkshire Council as a School Improvement Adviser, leading on improving education, skills, employment and training outcomes for local young people and adults.

 Rebecca Hartley
Vice Chair & Chair of Finance/Resources Committee (Co-opted Governor)

As the mum of 3 kids who’ve all been through The Ilsleys, I am very aware of just how lucky we are to have such great village schools. My job as a School Business Manager means that I fully understand the challenges and financial pressures small schools are facing but I strongly believe that they provide our kids with the best possible start as well as playing a key role in our communities.

 Tom Thomasson (Foundation Governor)

Our family have lived in Hampstead Norreys for seven years years.  We have one son at the village school.  As Foundation Governor my role is to strengthen the ties between the federation and the parishes which each school is part of. Part of this is ensuring that the visions of both school are core to everything that takes place within them, especially with regards to the Christian Vision particular to Hampstead Norreys.  I am always looking for opportunities to build relationships with all staff, parents and pupils at both schools in the federation and contributing to all aspects of school life.

 Peter Borthwick (Parent Governor & Vice Chair of Finance Committee)

I am a father of four year old twins who are in Reception at Hampstead Norreys Primary School.  As an Associate Governor I want to contribute to the life and development of the schools.  I am a filmographer and technology consultant with extensive experience advising businesses on optimising their online presence and producing promotional films.  I also perform jazz with a band and I am passionate about arts and musical education.  I have served on a number of committees and for the last two years I have enjoyed serving on the arts and crafts festival committee of Holy Trinity Chelsea.  I am looking forward to interacting with staff, parents and children and getting to know the whole school community.  I offer commitment, enthusiasm, and determination to make a difference to all children; striving for academic excellence.

Katie Edwards (Co-Opted Governor)

I am Katie, the Assistant Headteacher of our federation.  I have been a Governor for several years, initially as a staff governor and now as a co-opted member of the board. In recent years, I have become more involved with the leadership of Hampstead Norreys and worked alongside our Executive Headteacher on the strategic vision of the school. I am passionate about ensuring we get the very best outcomes for our pupils both academically and emotionally – so that they are the happiest, most confident learners they can be. 

 Sarah Cairns (Parent Governor)

I am a mum of four; two of which are already at The Ilsleys, one starting this year and Ralf who will be following on in 3 years time!  Whilst I strongly support the strive fir high academic standard, my particular strength and interest lies in the personal development and wellbeing of the children.  Prior to having my children, I gained a degree in English Language and Sociology, and worked in Social Services at West Berkshire Council, mostly within the safeguarding team.  Through this I learned skills in understanding the professional safeguarding processes, alongside the importance of equality, non-judgemental guidance and support for those in need of some help.  I will bring enthusiasm, excellent communication and listening skills, the desire to work as part of a team with like-minded people, and a real passion for supporting the children in their learning and emotional development at our schools to my Parent Governor role.