The Wynndale Governing Body supports the Head Teacher’s leadership of school. They help to ensure that every child and staff member is safe. They work in partnership with the school to influence and support the schools progression, monitoring performance management procedures to ensure they are effective.

Our Full Governing Body meet on a termly basis. We also hold two committee meetings each term to discuss specific issues relating to Finance & Personnel and Pupil & Strategic Development.  Minutes from our Governor meetings are kept in school and are available to see upon request by contacting the Head Teacher or by emailing your request to office@wynndale.notts.sch.uk

All Local Authority & co-opted governors are appointed by the Full Governing Body. Parent Governors are appointed by ballot of the parents. Staff Governors are appointed by ballot of the school staff.

Our Governing Body

Louise Morgan - Chair

Governor category: Coopted

Appointed by: Governing body

Term of Office: 19.11.22 - 18.11.26

Committee Membership: Pupil & Strategic

Pecuniary/Business Interests:  None

I have been a governor at Wynndale for over 15 years, originally joining when my children attended the school. During this time, I’ve held a range of roles, including safeguarding, complaints and curriculum, and I now focus on achievement and leadership. As a qualified Data Protection Officer, I also support the school’s data protection and information security work.

As Chair of Governors, I work closely with the Headteacher and leadership team to offer both support and constructive challenge, ensuring the very best outcomes for all pupils.

Outside of school, I work full‑time in consultancy and enjoy spending time with my husband, our two boys and our two dogs. We love holidays, days out, music festivals and creating memories together.

I believe strongly in giving back to our community and value the opportunity to contribute my skills to Wynndale. I’m proud of the diverse mix of experience across our governing body—each governor brings something unique, and together we offer balanced, thoughtful support at a time when schools face increasing pressure and tighter budgets.

Paul Wakelin - Vice Chair

Governor category: Coopted

Appointed by: Governing Body

Term of Office: 15.11.24 - 14.11.28

Committee Membership: Finance & Personnel

Pecuniary/Business Interests:  None

I have served as a dedicated School Governor since 2013, bringing over a decade of experience in strategic leadership, accountability, and school improvement. Throughout this time, I have worked closely with senior leaders, staff, and fellow governors to help ensure that every pupil receives the best possible education and that the school continues to thrive within its community.

My professional background as a Systems Development Officer has equipped me with strong analytical skills, a deep understanding of data and performance, and a commitment to effective, efficient processes. I use this expertise to support evidence‑based decision‑making, robust scrutiny, and forward‑thinking planning within the governing body.

Having served through multiple Ofsted cycles, curriculum changes, and evolving safeguarding requirements, I understand the importance of strong governance in supporting leaders while providing thoughtful challenge. I am passionate about inclusive practice, high expectations for all learners, and ensuring that resources are used wisely to maximise pupil outcomes.

Over the past decade, I have built strong relationships within the school community and remain committed to helping shape a positive, ambitious, and supportive environment for pupils, staff, and families. As a long‑standing governor, I continue to bring stability, strategic focus, and a genuine desire to make a lasting difference.

Rebecca Rickersey

Governor category: Headteacher

Appointed by: Governing body

Term of Office: 1.9.18 -

Committee Membership: All committees

Pecuniary/Business Interests:  None

As the Headteacher of Wynndale Primary School I closely work with the Governing Board to shape the school’s vision and drive continuous improvement across all aspects of school life. I have over 20 years of experience working in primary education, having held a number of teaching and senior leadership roles during this time. I have been lucky enough to be the Headteacher of Wynndale for the past 7 and a half years and am proud of the school community we have built in this time. I work with an amazing team of staff and families, striving collectively to ensure all children in our care receive an excellent education built on high expectations, inclusive practice, and a love of learning. We want every Wynndale Learner to leave us having reached their ‘Star’, prepared for a future of possibilities, and equipped with the knowledge and skills to contribute positively to the world in which they live.

Outside of school, I love exploring the world and visiting different places on holiday with my family, and I also regularly love to exercise – you will often find me in the gym or running! I also enjoy going to music concerts (Take That and Olly Murs being particular favourites!) and I enjoy attending sports events, having been fortunate enough to visit both Twickenham and Wimbledon in the last year.

Jane Clarkson

Governor category: Coopted

Appointed by: Governing body

Term of Office: 17.11.25-16.11.29

Committee Membership: Pupil & Strategic

Pecuniary/Business Interests: None

I have been associated with Wynndale for over 25 years, having worked here as a teacher. During this time, I worked predominantly within Early Years Foundation Stage and as Foundation Lead had the privilege of leading a dedicated and committed team.

I took early retirement from my teaching role but remained keen to continue supporting the school community in a different capacity.

Following my retirement, I became a member of the Governing Body and have held a number of link governor roles. Initially, I took responsibility for Health and Safety and was also involved in handling complaints. I am currently the joint link governor for Headteacher Appraisal and Personal Development and Wellbeing, and link governor for Early Years. These roles have allowed me to maintain a strong understanding of school life and to contribute to both strategic oversight and support.

I firmly believe that children’s welfare is of paramount importance. Safeguarding and promoting the wellbeing of all pupils underpins everything we do as governors. I am passionate about supporting the development of the whole child—recognising that children’s emotional, social and mental wellbeing is just as important as their academic progress. A nurturing, safe and inclusive environment enables children to thrive and achieve their full potential.

Supporting staff is also a key priority for me. I believe that staff wellbeing has a direct impact on the quality of education and care provided to our pupils. It is important that staff feel valued, listened to and supported, and that they see the Governing Body as a well-informed, approachable and supportive team. A strong partnership between governors, leaders and staff is essential for the continued success of the school.

Outside of my role as a governor, I love holidays and short breaks, spending time with my family and grandchildren, meeting friends and gardening. These interests help me maintain a healthy life balance and bring a positive perspective to my role within school governance.

Carly Taylor

Governor category: Co-opted

Appointed by: Governing body

Term of Office: 21.06.23 - 20.06.27

Committee Membership:  Pupil & Strategic

Pecuniary/Business Interests:  None

I joined Wynndale in September 2018 as an experienced Higher Level Teaching Assistant. 2020 was a pivotal year in education as parents, children and teachers had to navigate daily life through Covid19. My role transitioned into pastoral care in response to the emotional well-being needs of the children. I qualified as a Mental Health First Aider and trained to become an ELSA – Emotional Literacy Support Assistant.

Pastoral care continues to be my main focus in school. This includes children with SEND, and the safeguarding of Wynndale children and their families. I believe that Wynndale is an emotionally safe place for our children and I am passionate about the nurturing environment we provide.

I became a staff governor in September 2024, not only to represent staff views but also to use my first hand experience in supporting children and their families, to work as part of a dedicated team of school governors, to help shape Wynndale’s strategic direction.

Rachael Penford

Governor category: Co-opted

Appointed by: Governing Body

Term of Office: 27.11.23 - 26.11.27

Committee Membership: Finance & Personnel

Pecuniary/Business Interests: None

I became a Co-opted Governor in 2023. My children have attended, and continue to attend, Wynndale Primary School, and I feel very proud to support such a fantastic school community. I am a member of the Finance Committee and also contribute to curriculum monitoring.

I have extensive leadership experience within the financial sector. My background includes roles as a Relationship Manager, Senior HR Business Partner supporting around 300 employees, and more recently as an Operations Manager, where I have led teams and driven improvements in efficiency.

I am committed to adding value to the Wynndale team and supporting the school’s continued success. I bring integrity, strong communication skills and a strategic approach to my role, and I am always willing to go the extra mile for the benefit of the children, families and staff.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends.

Verity Mason

Governor category: Staff

Appointed by: Governing body

Term of Office: 20.10.23  - 19.10.27

Committee Membership: Pupil & Strategic

Pecuniary/Business Interests: None

I joined the Wynndale family in January 2000 as a class teacher in Year One. Early in my career at Wynndale I became part of the Early Years team which I quickly discovered was where I was meant to teach! I became Early Years lead in 2018 and am a dedicated and passionate leader for our youngest children in school. 

I joined the governing body as a staff governor in September 2025 so that I may offer my experience in support of the ongoing school development journey. I want all our pupils to have the best opportunities possible and for every single pupil to make good progress.

Outside of school I enjoy family time; including following Notts County FC round the country and attended country music concerts and festivals. 

Amy Ripley

Governor category: Co-opted

Appointed by: Governing Body

Term of Office: 07.12.25 - 06.12.29

Committee Membership:  Pupil & Strategic

Pecuniary/Business Interests: None

I have been a Co-opted Governor at Wynndale Primary School since 2021 and currently serve as Vice Chair of the Pupil and Strategic Committee. 

I became a Governor because I believe strongly in strengthening the link between school and community. I enjoy visiting and seeing the school’s values in action. I have two children at Wynndale and so have a genuine commitment to supporting the school. I am passionate about ensuring all children are recognised as individuals and are supported academically and emotionally to ensure they are happy, confident and reaching their potential.   I am proud to be part of a dedicated governing body that works collaboratively to support the school’s vision and long‑term priorities.

I am the link Governor for SEND (special educational needs and disability) & Inclusion. I work closely with the SEND coordinator to understand pupil needs, provision and progress in all areas of school life- inside and outside the classroom.  This is monitored in the context of ensuring an inclusive, aspirational, whole-school culture and a highly skilled and confident staff team.   I have also recently taken on the link role for Safeguarding and will spend time with the Designated Safeguarding Lead to ensure statutory requirements are met and children's welfare is a priority.

In my work life, I have 18 years of experience working in the local Children's Speech and Language Therapy (SALT) service and in recent years leading the Early Intervention SALT team in Nottinghamshire.  For the past 9 years, I have also run a skincare business, part of which involves coaching and mentoring a happy and successful team.

In my personal life,  I love spending quality time with my family; whether that be some down-time at home or exploring new places and trying new things.  I enjoy reading, walking, nice food and spa breaks!  I like to have fun with friends and always try to live life to the fullest.

Katie Stewart

Governor category: Local Authority

Appointed by: Local Authority

Term of Office: 02.07.2025 - 01.07.2029

Committee Membership: Pupil & Strategic

Pecuniary/Business Interests: None

Initially elected as a Parent Governor in 2021 when my children attended Wynndale Primary School, I was then re-elected as a Local Authority Governor in the summer of 2025.

I currently serve as Chair of the Pupil, Strategic and Development Committee, leading a sub‑group of the Governing Body dedicated to upholding high‑quality, inclusive educational provision for every pupil.

Additionally I have spent over three years as the Link Safeguarding Governor, collaborating with the Designated Safeguarding Lead to rigorously monitor safeguarding measures and ensure pupil welfare is consistently prioritised.

Most recently, I have taken on the role of Link Attendance Governor, supporting the school in identifying pupils at risk of poor attendance and evaluating the effectiveness of strategies designed to improve it.

 I am committed to playing a meaningful role in the school community, collaborating closely with teachers and staff to strengthen a culture that is supportive, inclusive, and consistently focused on the highest standards for all pupils.

I have a strong operational and strategic background, with the last ten years spent working in the family law sector.

In my spare time, you will most probably catch me on the sidelines at Mansfield Rugby Club supporting both children and husband!

Martin Woodland

Governor category: Co-opted

Appointed by: Governing body

Term of Office: 03.07 2024 - 02.07.2028

Committee Membership: Finance & Personnel

Pecuniary/Business Interest: Flooring Business

Sophie Cook

Governor category: Parent

Appointed by: Parents

Term of Office: 06.03.25 - 05.03.29

Committee Membership: Finance & Personnel

Pecuniary/Business Interests:  None

I was elected as a Parent Governor in March 2025 and am part of the Finance Committee along with being the responsible link Governor for Finance and also a portion of the Curriculum subjects.

I put myself forward for the role of Governor, following my daughter enrolling at Wynndale in September 2024 and as a parent, the school and community is very important to me. I am passionate about supporting its continued success and becoming a parent governor felt like a natural step, as I wanted to give something back to the school and play an active role in helping ensure the best possible environment and opportunities for all children and staff. 

My experiences gained by proudly working for Mansfield Building Society for 15 years, have allowed me to build strong foundations in finance and service and additional skills such as a keen eye for detail, accountability, and strategic thinking. In recent years I’ve been in operational leadership roles including Direct Sales and Customer Service Management and am due to start a new role as Quality Assurance Manager ensuring all quality, service and regulatory responsibilities are met.

In addition to the above, I’m also Mental Health First Aid trained and provide continued support to colleagues and peers.  

In my spare time, I love spending time with my lovely family including our gorgeous dog Albert!'

Cirstie Newton

Governor category: Parent

Appointed by: Parents

Term of Office: 02.07.2025 - 01.07.2029

Committee Membership: Finance & Personnel

Pecuniary/Business Interests:  None

I was elected as a Parent Governor in 2025 and currently have one child attending Wynndale Primary School in Key Stage 1. I am passionate about supporting the school and working collaboratively with teachers and staff to help ensure a nurturing, inclusive and high-quality learning environment for all pupils.

My professional background is in the financial services industry, where I have spent the past 10 years leading operational teams across the UK, Sweden and Germany. This has given me extensive experience of working with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds, and I am a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion. Through a range of leadership roles across both operational and customer experience settings, I bring a broad skill set to my role as Parent Governor, including experience in reviewing performance against Ofsted requirements, supporting and constructively challenging leadership, handling complaints, effective communication, understanding strategic priorities and measuring success.

As the Link Governor for Personal Development and Well-being, I work closely with the Head Teacher to ensure appropriate levels of support, resources and oversight are in place to promote pupils’ emotional health and personal development.

I became a Parent Governor to play an active role in supporting the school community and its ongoing success. I am proud to contribute to the school’s vision and to represent the voices of parents from minority ethnic and LGBTQ households.

Outside of school, I enjoy spending time with my family, cooking, and making the most of days out and holidays.

Governor Financial Statement - please contact the school office for further information