Governor Profiles

LA Governor - Chair of Governors

Karen Sherwood

Hello, I have been a governor since November 2017. My decision to become a governor was made through my interest and experience in helping children have the best opportunities and experiences possible to ensure that they achieve the very best they can.  I believe that Horndean Infant School provides these opportunities.

Until recently I was working as a SENCo in a local school so I understand the current challenges faced by staff in school and the level of hard work and dedication needed when working with children. I understand the concerns and anxieties of parents when the educational journey of their children take a different path and they need a different level of support. My passion is to ensure that all children have the same opportunities to do the very best they can. I believe that Horndean Infant School, with its importance placed on all areas of the curriculum, does just that. My role as a governor is to support the work of the school and the staff in achieving their goals.

Outside of education, I have two grown-up children. My interests include cycling, walking and painting.

Co-op Governor

Steve Smith

I joined the governing body in September 2022 and have enjoyed being part of the team so far.

My son is currently in the school and my two daughters will hopefully join when they are old enough.

Being a teacher at a local secondary school I have an excellent understanding of the education system and aim to use this to help make Horndean Infant School the best it can be for all our children.

Co-op Governor - Vice-Chair of Governors

Matthew Desmond

I joined the team in May 2019.  I have been a parent at Horndean Infant School since my eldest son started in 2011, with both sons now having moved onto Horndean Junior and Horndean Technology College.  I was asked to join as I share similar values to the rest of the team with regard to the education of young people and making Horndean Infant School the best it can be.

Outside of a busy work life, I enjoy spending time with my family, I’m a bit of a petrolhead and am currently working through the grades of a local karate club.

Co-op Governor

Mark Sard

Mark joined our governing body in 2022.
He will update this profile soon!

Mark joined our governing body in 2022.
He will update this profile soon!
Co-op Governor

Hayley Wilson

I have been a parent governor since September 2020 and I am really enjoying this fascinating role. I wanted to join the governing board, being a teacher myself, I am passionate about education and I believe Horndean Infant School provides an excellent, all-around education for pupils. I currently have a daughter in Year 2 and a son hopefully starting in Year F in September as well as a third who will also attend in a few years. In my spare time, I like to swim and I am also involved in amateur dramatics.
Parent Governor

Sarah Green

I joined the governing body as a parent governor in September 2022, as I am passionate about children having the best education possible.

I have been a Secondary School teacher since 2009 so have a good understanding of the educational system and the roles and responsibilities of teachers and school staff. I am hoping to use this knowledge to support the school.

I have a daughter that attends the school and I hope my other daughter attends in a few years.

When I am not at work, I enjoy arts and crafts and a bit of DIY.

Parent Governor

James Phelan

I joined the governing body in November 2023.
I am a Chartered Certified Accountant therefore bring financial skills to the governing body. I look forward to working with the school on financial and budgeting matters.
I have two daughters, one in Horndean Junior School and one in Horndean Infant School.
I grew up in Horndean and live close to the school. It’s great to be able to give back to the school and be involved in ensuring a quality education for the children of Horndean Infant School.
Outside of work I enjoy running and cycling. I have run every great south run since 2009 and enjoy local trail run events.
Parent Governor

Laura Duff

Hi, my name is Laura and I have been a parent governor since September 2022. I have two children, one in year one and the eldest is currently in Horndean Junior School.
My interest in becoming a governor has steamed from wanting my children to have the best schooling experience possible and being a governor I can understand more about how the school works and how the children are supported to achieve their very best.
My professional background is working with children which has provided me with a good understanding of the needs of children and how valuable schooling is for everyone.
Outside of work, my interests include spending time with the family, walking and swimming.