GOVERNORS

DOCUMENTATION & POLICIES

Code Of Conduct Policy

Governance Statement

Governor Meeting Attendance

Virtual Governor Meeting Attendance Policy

Monitoring Visitors Policy

Roles and Responsibilities

Declarations of Interest

Governance Development Strategy

MEET OUR GOVERNORS

Jill Bowe

Headteacher at Villa Real School.

Lindsey Robinson

I became a Parent Governor in October 2020, shortly after my daughter, aged 6 joined Villa Real. I also have a son aged 2. I work part time for a Global Energy Company and have experience in project management strategy, business improvement, audit and quality systems. I really hope that in my role of Parent Governor I can use my skills and experience to support the school to ensure our children have the best possible experience at Villa Real School. I also hope that I can learn some new skills and increase my understanding of the education sector. I am currently Chair of the Governing Body.

Pam Monaghan

I have worked in primary education in Durham for more than 25 years, within mainstream settings. I have 13 years’ experience in senior leadership in a primary school and 6 years’ experience working as a School Leadership Adviser for the local authority, supporting and advising primary schools across Durham. I am currently the Director of Primary Education for New College Durham Academies Trust.

I have also been a governor at Silver Tree Primary School, Ushaw Moor, for over 8 years, following the conclusion of some headteacher consultancy work within the school. I currently hold the position of Chair of Governors at Silver Tree Primary School.

I am looking forward to using my skills and experience in the education sector to support the headteacher and leaders at Villa Real School moving forward.

Ivan Jewell

During my past career I worked for thirty years in the Further and Higher Education Sectors. I have a genuine interest in education, and the opportunity for children and young people to reach their full potential.

I have been a Governor at Burnopfield Primary School for over 20 years and am a Board Member of the New College Academies Trust. I would like to share my knowledge and experience and I am committed to working with Villa Real School, and assisting it to move forward for the benefit of the children and young people. I am Chair of the Finance and Premises sub committee.

Angela Doogan

I am excited to be appointed as a Villa Real School staff governor. With 22 years of dedicated service, I began my journey as a support assistant. I have steadily progressed through various roles, including special support assistant, higher-level teaching assistant, and, after completing my degree, class teacher. My experience as a middle manager has also allowed me to develop valuable leadership skills.

For several years, I have served as the RE coordinator, during which I contributed to the launch of the New Durham Agreed Syllabus. My responsibilities include leading Philosophy for Children, overseeing the Duke of Edinburgh Award, and managing Elklan communication. I look forward to leveraging my background to contribute positively to our school’s ongoing success.

Kathryn Rooney

I’m a married mother of three grown up children. I was a hairdresser from leaving school, progressing to salon manager in several local salons. I later trained as a teaching assistant and senior support in various schools in the area. I was a youth worker until recently, and I also do shifts with an agency with vulnerable adults and children.

I was elected as councillor for Consett North ward in the last local elections, it is a role I find very rewarding.

Caroline Spence

I’m a busy working mam of 1 son and 2 stepsons. My son and my stepson are both diagnosed with ASD one of which attends Villa Real. My day job is as a data and systems analyst, specifically around the financial reporting, within the water industry and I hope I have skills from that which will be of use in my role here as a Parent Governor. I’m very excited to be a part of the School’s future.

David Lees

Since September 2024 I have been a minister in the Methodist Churches around Consett, living in Leadgate, where I have an interest in the well-being of the people and organisations of the local community. I do some ad-hoc teaching at St John's College, Durham, and enjoy exploring the local landscape and wildlife. Before moving to County Durham, my wife, son, cat, tortoise and I lived in the Shetland Islands, so am getting used to a new pace of life. I became a co-opted governor in 2025, and look forward to contributing to the life of Villa Real School, whilst developing a new set of skills.

Jane Lewin

I am recently retired from a career spanning nearly 40 years in education. I was a primary school teacher and then a head teacher for of a primary school and then a federation of 2 primary schools for 19 years in County Durham. I then left headship to work for Durham Local Authority as a leadership adviser initially, and then was promoted to strategic manager in the Education team. In this role I was linked to several special schools, including Villa Real for advice and support.

Claire Sewell

I have over 25 years of experience in UK and international primary education, specialising in inclusion, SEND, and social‑emotional development; and have held senior roles including SENDCo, Head of Learning Support, and Designated Safeguarding Lead. I lead nationally recognised school mental health qualifications at Minds Ahead CIC and serve as a Non‑Executive Director at ReFUSE, supporting strong governance and community impact.

I’m looking forward to supporting the team at Villa Real, both strategically and pastorally, as we work together to build on the school’s strengths and deepen its impact. I’m excited to listen, learn, and collaborate with staff, families, and partners to ensure every member of the community feels seen, supported, and able to thrive.