Area of focus: 

Chair of Governors and Link Governor for Safeguarding.

How long have you been a governor at Shepwell School?

Over 20 years.

Why did you want to become a governor?

Governors play a vital role in shaping the strategic direction of schools and I wanted to support the school by utilising my skills as a senior NHS manager. The school was linked to my role as the Strategic Lead for Teenage Pregnancy in Walsall, as the school was (and still is) the dedicated alternative provider for pregnant schoolgirls. Additionally, I had always wanted to volunteer, and becoming a governor is a good way of giving back to the local community.

What is the best thing about Shepwell School?

The ethos of the school is amazing! It has a great sense of community and shared purpose. The aim is as it should be, to educate young people, and ensure that they achieve their very best! Shepwell is like a large family, where students, teachers, staff and families all come together to support learning and wellbeing. Teachers at Shepwell genuinely care, students are actively encouraged to be creative and to think critically and the school continuously ensures the strong leadership ensures that it aspires to be the best!

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Travelling, keeping fit, reading and doing crotchet.

If you could change one thing about education, what would it be?

Increased funding, especially for SEND.

Kathryn Sugars

Area of focus: 

Attendance.

How long have you been a governor at Shepwell School?

18 months.

Why did you want to become a governor?

To share my experience with another school and work with other local schools.

What is the best thing about Shepwell School?

The wide range of support that is available to meet the needs of all of the pupils. The school is constantly developing and changing to meet these needs.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Gardening, walking and spending time with my family.

If you could change one thing about education, what would it be?

Equity for all.

Mark Beech

Area of focus: 

Pupil premium and pupil progress.

How long have you been a governor at Shepwell School?

8 years.

Why did you want to become a governor?

I wanted to make a difference in a setting that is supportive to both pupils and staff.

What is the best thing about Shepwell School?

Everybody! There is such a positive attitude in school and everyone is welcoming and supportive - and the pupils are brilliant!

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

History, swimming, exams invigilation, being a Church Director and being a cover caretaker.

If you could change one thing about education, what would it be?

Less targets and more concentration on raising standards, as well as being supportive so everyone is given a chance to excel.

Paul Bruton-Holmes

Area of focus: 

Health and Safety and pupil wellbeing.

How long have you been a governor at Shepwell School?

8 months at Shepwell. 23 years experience of being a governor at my previous school.

Why did you want to become a governor?

I wanted to support and help deliver the highest standard of governor support.

What is the best thing about Shepwell School?

The ethos is amazing and SLT are always approachable and VERY supportive.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

VW campervan scene, outdoor activities, camping and fundraising.

If you could change one thing about education, what would it be?

Information would be clearer and schools would be listened to more.

Natalie Harris

Area of focus: 

Staff governor.

How long have you been a governor at Shepwell School?

Since September 2024.

Why did you want to become a governor?

To learn more about the procedures of a governing body and further support my knowledge and understanding of the running of the school.

What is the best thing about Shepwell School?

The pupils are at the centre of all decisions and changes. Staff wellbeing is genuinely a priority.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

Seeing friends, spending time with my family and friends.

If you could change one thing about education, what would it be?

Make it less prescriptive and give staff the freedom to do what we know is best.

Zoe Peart-Johnson

Area of focus: 

Parent governor.

How long have you been a governor at Shepwell School?

One year.

Why did you want to become a governor?

I'm really impressed with what Shepwell achieves and I wanted to be part of that positive impact. As a parent, I think it's crucial that these pupils get the support they need and I'm keen to be involved in making that happen.

What is the best thing about Shepwell School?

The pupils are at the centre of all decisions and changes. Staff wellbeing is genuinely a priority.

Mrs Southall and all of that staff in general. It's an incredible and inclusive environment which focuses on meeting the needs of the pupils rather than meeting the tick-box demands of the local authority. Yes, there are things that HAVE to be done, but it always should come down to the pupil's wellbeing. That really is the driving force and heartbeat of this school.

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I'm usually in the gym or on a run, or sitting on the sofa with my son, the pug and a cat or two!

If you could change one thing about education, what would it be?

More schools with the 'Shepwell' approach. Take the focus off achieving the highest grades and shift to trying to have the happiest and most fulfilled pupils.