School governors form the biggest volunteer group in the country. People from all walks of life become governors for their own personal reasons but primarily to support their local school.
Governing bodies are democratic groups. In principle they operate along the same lines as local councils and other voluntary organisations. They contribute to the leadership of a school and are involved in strategic planning and formulation of policies. Governing bodies also act as 'critical friends' to both support and challenge the school. At Manuden we all work as a team for the benefit of the school, respecting each others points of view but always acting as a corporate body and accepting decisions reached by the majority. Governing bodies have a strategic role in the development of the school. They do not become involved in day to day management issues as these are the responsibility of the head teacher. Ultimately the governing body, along with the head teacher and all of the staff want the very best education for your child/ren.
Our full Governing Body meet at least once a term, and more frequently if required. Minutes of all these meetings are available for your inspection so please ask at the office if you would like to read them. We do, however, ask that they be kept on the school site.
Our Governing Body
I am delighted to have been elected Chair of Governors and I'm looking forward to working with staff, governors, pupils and parents to ensure that Manuden continues to thrive. I have worked in education for many years and most recently I was the CEO of a multi academy trust in Enfield. I live in Stansted and have four grandchildren who keep me busy!
My family and I have recently moved to the area. We were delighted to have our daughter accepted into Manuden Primary. It seemed to be a natural step for me to join the school's Governing Body. I have worked in education for the last 20 years, mainly within the primary independent sector. Within this time, I progressed to sit on the schools senior leadership team in the capacity of Head of Teaching and Learning an Educational consultant on school improvement projects and supply work. I have a true passion for the wellbeing and education of all children and look forward to bringing this commitment and enthusiasm to my role as parent governor.
I am very proud to be the Headteacher of Manuden Primary School - returning to the school that started my educational career nearly 20 years ago. It is already clear that the children are extremely hard working and are supported in their learning by a wonderfully committed team of staff. I have worked in education for over twenty years, starting my educational career at Manuden Primary School as a Teaching Assistant. I have a degree in Early Years Education and have taught extensively in both Early Years and Key Stage One. I have worked at several schools in Bishops Stortford and was, most recently, the Deputy Headteacher of a larger school in Ware. Out of school, I enjoy spending as much time as possible with my family taking long walks, going to the cinema and we always love a visit to a theme park!
I have worked at Manuden Primary School since March 2013 and have been the Staff Governor since September 2020. I have a diverse work history which includes finance/banking, HR and legal - all of which are beneficial to my roles at the School. I have lived in Manuden for more than 25 years and enjoy being part of the village community. In my spare time I like reading, cooking and shopping.
I have been living in Manuden since 2016. I have 3 children of whom 2 are currently attending Manuden Primary School. I decided to become a school governor in 2018 as I would like to take a more active role and contribute positively towards their school. I am currently a stay at home mum. I have previously worked in the oil and gas industry in various positions including HSE, project management and commercial management. I have also completed by MBA this year. I enjoy taking part in village activities and I am also part of the school's PTA. I am very pleased to have the opportunity to work with this amazing school and I look forward to supporting its continued development.
I have been living in Manuden since 2007 with my husband. I have 2 children who attend Manuden Primary School. I have worked full-time in the pharmaceutical industry since 1996 which has given me a diverse skill set which I hope will benefit the school. I requested to become a governor in 2018 because I wanted to contribute what I could towards our village community. I am an active member of the PTFA. I enjoy free time with family and friends, cooking, walking and (fair weather!) bike riding.
Gabi Boucher-Byfield - Co-Opted Governor
I completed the Teach First program and spent four years as a secondary school teacher, going on to study for a Masters in Educational Leadership and School Improvement, before working as a Civil Servant. I now work in financial crime investigation, but retain a passion for education and for improving outcomes for young people. I joined the governing body of Manuden Primary in December 2022, soon after my family stopped moving around for work and I settled in Stansted together with my husband and toddler aged daughter. I am really excited to have the opportunity to contribute to this school and the local area.