Governors
Meet Our Governors
Rhonda Penny - Chair of Governors (Local Authority Governor)
Ian Cass - Vice Chair (Co-opted Governor)
I am a family man, married with two grown up lads who both attended Calmore Juniors. I was previously a parent governor when my youngest went to the school but have now returned as a co-opted governor. I was a chef for thirty years but now work in IT for local government and a die-hard Saints fan for my sins. I am vice chair and enjoy making a difference to the children who attend the school.
Melissa Barton (Parent Governor)
I am a mum of three girls who attend Calmore Junior School. I currently work in science in a local secondary school and get to witness the transition from KS2 to KS3 first hand. I wanted to become a governor to have a positive impact on our children's education, gaining insight into the curriculum and hard work that goes into running the school behind the scenes. My goal is to provide support to the team of staff that help our children achieve everything they possibly can.
Nicola Burton (Co-opted Governor)
My name is Nicky and I have been a Governor at CJS since 2023. I attended CJS as a child and it has always held a special place in my heart. I came back to the school as a teen fresh out of college to work as an apprentice LSA, working at the school in Year 4 while I gained my qualification. I gave up on my plans to be a teacher (because that job is far too demanding!), got into events, and now work in the charity sector running fundraising events to generate funds for important causes. I still live in Totton and am a parent of a small person, not quite of school age yet. It is a busy life balancing looking after my household and family, working, children’s clubs and this volunteering role but community is incredibly important to me, and CJS plays such a crucial role in that.
Sirbrina Ramharack (Partnership Governor)
Edit Liebhardt (Community Governor)
My name is Edit Liebhardt. I have worked in education and with young people for over 12 years, both on a voluntary and professional basis. I am passionate about giving young people the best educational and social start in life, and about ensuring we always do our best by them. I live just around the corner from the school and hope to see you on one of my walks around the neighbourhood.
Jenniver Hulbert (Community Governor)
As a former volunteer youth worker and foster parent, I have seen how a caring and supportive school community can help children grow in confidence and achieve their full potential. I hope to be part of this journey with the children, parents and staff at Calmore Junior School.
Chris Byrne
I am a secondary school teacher and Head of Performing Arts at a local secondary school and have worked in education for the past 15 years. In addition to teaching, I practice as an adult mental-health counsellor. I joined the governing body at Calmore Junior School to help ensure our pupils receive an excellent education, while championing a healthy, supportive environment for the entire school team to thrive in.
Supporting Success at Calmore Junior School
At Calmore Junior School, our Governing Body plays a vital role in shaping the direction and success of our school. The governors work collaboratively with the headteacher, staff, and parents to ensure that every pupil receives the best possible education in a nurturing and stimulating environment.
Who Are the Governors?
Our Governing Body is made up of a diverse group of individuals, including:
- Parent Governors: Elected by the parents of our pupils, they represent the views and interests of families.
- Staff Governors: Members of the school staff who bring valuable insights into daily school operations.
- Co-opted Governors: Selected for their skills and expertise to enhance the Governing Body’s effectiveness.
- Local Authority Governors: Appointed by the local authority to provide external perspective and support.
- Associate Members: Specialists who contribute to specific areas of governance.
This mix of skills and backgrounds ensures that our Governing Body is well-equipped to make informed decisions for the benefit of the entire school community.
What Do Governors Do?
Governors provide strategic leadership and oversight in several key areas:
- Setting the Vision and Values
- Defining the ethos and long-term direction of the school.
- Ensuring Accountability
- Monitoring and evaluating the school’s performance.
- Supporting and challenging school leaders to drive improvement.
- Financial Oversight
- Ensuring the school budget is managed effectively and resources are used efficiently.
- Safeguarding and Wellbeing
- Making sure that all pupils and staff are safe, supported, and thriving.
Governors do not get involved in the day-to-day running of the school. Instead, they focus on strategic decision-making to support the headteacher and staff in delivering an outstanding education.
Becoming a Governor
Would you like to make a difference in our school? Joining the Governing Body is a rewarding way to support education in your local community. We welcome expressions of interest from individuals with a passion for helping children succeed and a willingness to learn. No prior experience is necessary—training and support are provided.
Contact the Governors
The Governing Body is here to support our pupils, parents, and staff. If you have any questions, suggestions, or feedback, please feel free to contact us through the school office or email us at adminoffice@calmore-jun.hants.sch.uk.
Together, we are committed to making Calmore Junior School a place where every child can achieve their full potential!