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Governors

The school’s governing body has three main functions:

  • Ensuring clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction.
  • Holding the headteacher to account for the educational performance of the school and its pupils, and the performance management of the staff.
  • Overseeing the financial performance of the school and making sure its money is well spent.

Padnell governors are interested in getting the best education for the pupils at the school. They are involved in a range of school matters, which include recruitment, finance and curriculum. They also provide a strong link between the school and the local community, and an independent view to support the school on long term development and improvement. 

The governing body operates under a flat structure with the addition of a pay panel and a headteacher performance management panel. They meet three times every term as a full governing body and each panel meets at certain times of the year in line with the school and local authority pay and performance management schedules. The governors get to know the school through attending meetings and monitoring visits. They are assigned specific roles or subjects (e.g. safeguarding, health and safety, pupil premium, English) and undertake a range of training to help them fulfil their duties and develop their understanding of the key areas of school management. 

From time to time the governing body has vacancies on its board and any interested parties can contact the chair of governors or headteacher via admin@padnell-inf.hants.sch.uk for more information. You do not have to be a parent or an education professional to be a school governor – Padnell values a diverse range of skills and perspectives.

Reasons to volunteer as a school governor:

  • Help children fulfil their aspirations.
  • Model the values of your community and make a difference to the lives of young people.
  • Meet great new people and bring a fresh perspective to the work of the governing body.
  • Develop new skills and knowledge with governor training.
Paula Young
Headteacher

I joined Padnell Infant School in September 2019 as Assistant Headteacher and was later appointed Deputy Headteacher. In September 2026, I was proud to become Headteacher.

The GROW ethos and the strong sense of community at Padnell Infant School are two of the many features that attracted me to the school.  

I have been in the teaching profession for over 17 years, during which time I have worked in Infant, Junior and Primary schools in several different local authorities including South London, Portsmouth and Hampshire.  I have been a member of two senior leadership teams previous to this post and have lead several different subjects across the curriculum.  I strongly believe in the importance of ensuring all children have access to a great education and the right to a childhool.  

Before teaching I was fortunate to take part in charity work abroad and completed several travelling trips.  I enjoyed getting off the tourist track as much as possible, experiencing the different cultures and traditions associated with each place I visited.

I now have two children, who take up most of my spare time when I'm not in school.

 

Mark Beetlestone
Safeguarding Governor (Co-Opted)

I've lived in Waterlooville almost all my life and am now raising a family of my own here.  My eldest son attends Padnell Infants and my youngest will follow suit in a few years.

I previously worked as an IT engineer before falling sideways into a career in teaching, having taught IT (network engineering, web development, cyber security), at outstanding colleges in Hampshire.  I quickly realised that my love for both the world of "teaching and learning" and all things technology allowed me to progress into interesting roles.  I became "Technology Enhanced Learning Manager", which involved working with colleagues across 3 busy college campuses to enhance delivery by integrating technology effectively.

I now work for a large national organisation as a Curriculum Designer, working with delivery teams to help create engaging, interactive and technologically enabled apprenticeship programmes.

I have won awards for being an outstanding lecturer and innovator in the educational space. 

I am also studying for a PhD. The focus of my research is the use of gamification in vocational and skills-based education.

I hope to bring my expertise to the table at Padnell to enhance the experience of staff, learners and parents alike.

Pip Inche
Staff Governor

My name is Pip Inche  and I am currently the Year 1 Lead and RE Lead here at Padnell. I moved to the area 18 years ago with my growing family initially working as a Nurse before re-training as a teacher over 10 years ago after I had spent some time working as a one to one  with children with special needs at my children's school. I chose to follow a SCITT programme which meant I was able to 'train on the job' which I loved. I have been fortunate enough to teach here at the school for the past 8 years and now find myself in a position to broaden my knowledge and contribution to the wider school.

I am now a mum of four children, with my youngest starting Senior school this year wihch doesn't seem possible. I have always played an active role in their schooling, particularly through their PTAs. This has now translated into the Parent Association of the Band that my daughter has followed her brother into this year. When I'm not involved with band activities, I enjoy yoga and long walks with my family and our two lively dogs.                     

Jacqueline Jones
Chair of Governors (Local Authority)
 

I am really pleased to be a governor at Padnell Infant School.  I have a long association with the Padnell community, first as a parent, my three children all went to the Padnell schools, and then as a member of the teaching staff. I left to become a headteacher of another infant school in 2007. I have since retired but I am delighted to renew my association with Padnell and it feels great to be back. I am looking forward to using my long educational experience to further support the school in any way that I can.

Sarah Miles

Parent Governor

I am so pleased to be joining the governing body at Padnell Infant School as a Parent Governor. My daughter started here in September 2026, and it feels really special for our family, as her dad went to Padnell himself 37 years ago. It's lovely to see her beginning her own journey in the same school.

I run my own small bookkeeping business, which has taught me the value of organisation, accountability and asking good questions. I'm looking forward to using those skills, and to learning all I can about how a school is run.

My daughter's previous nursery, Growing Places, showed me first-hand what a difference great early education makes, not just to the child but to the whole family. I've seen how children flourish when they feel safe, supported and encouraged, and I'm excited to play a part in helping Padnell's children thrive. The GROW values and the strong sense of community here are a big part of what makes this school so special.

Kate Mew
Co-Opted Governor

My name is Kate Mew and I am a Co- Opted Governor. I have a long association with Padnell Infants which began when my children attended the school and continued when I became a teacher here for nearly 20 years until my retirement in 2019. I am grateful that as a Governor I am still involved with the school and I hope that I have the skills and experience to support the Headteacher and the school community to ensure the best outcomes for all of our pupils here at Padnell. 

I believe every child deserves the best from their school and are entitled to a safe, engaging environment which fosters a love of learning whilst enabling each child to reach their full potential and grow into happy, confident, caring citizens. 
Sarah Miles
Parent Governor
 

Kate Morgan

Co-Opted Governor

I moved “down South” in 1998 to go to university, and I have lived here ever since. I have since trained as a teacher, got married, and had a daughter who has been through the Padnell Infant ranks! Whilst my daughter was at the Infant school, I found myself as chair of PIPSA, which was an interesting, and at times challenging position, but ultimately very rewarding. I am now honoured to be able to continue supporting the school as a governor. 

In my day to day role, I am a secondary science teacher at a local school, which whilst having its own challenges, is a hugely fulfilling career. Seeing the next generation grow and mature is one of the most wonderful parts of this role, and I feel privileged to hold this position. I hope that this background will help in my role as governor at Padnell Infant School.

Roger Osborne
Co-Opted Governor

My association with Padnell Infant School began in the 1980’s when my two children attended the School and I have maintained that association in a variety of forms for many years. Consequently I was pleased to become a Governor and then Chair of Governors before I stepped down earlier this year.  I am also a Governor of Padnell Junior as we all believe that the two schools working together is beneficial to the children.   

I began teaching, from which I am now retired, in 1970 as a teacher of Physical Education. In January 1975 I became Head of PE at Cowplain Community School where I worked for the next 38 years. Surprised they put up with me for so long! Throughout this time I had connections with the Padnell Schools which has continued since I moved to Oaklands Catholic School three years ago.   I am a sports fanatic with football being my main passion.  Despite my avid interest, I’m now only able to spectate and advise the players what they are doing wrong - they never seem to listen!  Being Portsmouth born and bred I still continue to be a Portsmouth Football Club season ticket holder. I have not yet had any therapy for this ailment so I manage to balance watching Portsmouth play with frequent visits to the Emirates football stadium.  

I should like to thank all pupils, parents and friends for their immeasurable support given to Padnell Infant School as it continues its development. 

Peter Pennekett
Co-Opted Governor

I retired in 2019 following a career in finance and we now live in Waterlooville, having moved from Portsmouth in 2022 to be nearer family.

I’m a keen golfer and I enjoy watching cricket, walking and making things in wood.

We have two grandsons both of whom attended Padnell Infants and have now moved on to Padnell Junior school, so we’ve seen how good the school has been for them and how much they have enjoyed it. The all embracing GROW ethos teaches a wonderful set of life skills far beyond just academic achievements.

I look forward to doing my best to help further the schools aims.

Lisa Suter
Parent Governor
 

Jenny Tyler
Co-Opted Governor
 

 

I have lived in Waterlooville since 2013 and am lucky enough to be Mummy to two small boys, the eldest of whom is a pupil at Padnell Infants.

I work as a hospital doctor and so have experience of governance throughout my career and am familiar with how it can help to bring about positive change. I enjoy a challenge and the satisfaction of a job well done and am looking forwards to giving my all in my role as a governor.

Outside of work, I am a busy and active person and enjoy spending lots of time with my friends and close-knit extended family.

My hobbies include fitness (I regularly train for and run obstacle courses), reading and sewing.

Paul Woolley
Parent Governor

 

Born and bred with Portsdown Hill as my playground. I spent my life as a Royal Navy Clearance Diver, where I’ve resiliently spent my life working in physically challenging environments round the world, instructing and mentoring underwater in the dark surrounded by dangers.

I grew up as a water baby, living on Hayling beach. I’ve fought with sharks, explored underwater wrecks, a big fan of classic cars and racing, a Blue Peter badge owner, and proud father of four overachievers, my youngest daughter I proudly hand delivered on my living room sofa myself.

Being a happily dyslexic thinker allows me to pass my love of doing things differently and seeing things from a more positive point of view to everybody that I meet.

A missed 2nd career as a motivational speaker, my current journey is in product management, economics, and too much worldwide governance, bending exotic metals with my mind for a better future.

I’ll use my diverse knowledge to ensure that we have the governance structures, funding, and resources to support every child’s holistic growth and happiness to ensure they have every opportunity to confidently enjoy thriving and GROWing.

I intend to help ensure every child has a secure foundation where they can safely, freely, and enthusiastically engage in learning, and enjoy their daily lived experiences.

It sounds grand what I’m here for, but I suspect I’ll mostly be writing the risk assessment for the new shade of blue paint needed for the store cupboard.

I’m proud to serve as a parent Governor at Padnell Infant School and I look forward to a big change from fast boats, helicopters, deep diving and living on exotic beaches and to learning what the children can teach me.

 

Jasmine Barnes
Assistant Headteacher

I am delighted to be joining the Governing Body at Padnell Infant School, having recently been appointed as Assistant Headteacher in September 2026. I have worked in education for over 15 years, supporting children and families across local schools and pre-schools, and I am passionate about ensuring every child receives the very best start in life.

Padnell Infant School holds a special place in my heart. Not only did I attend the school myself, but both of my children have also been pupils here and have many happy memories of their time at Padnell. This gives me a strong connection to the school and its community.

My professional background is predominantly in Early Years and Key Stage One, and for the past few years I have worked as a Leader Foundation Stage Practitioner for Hampshire County Council. I firmly believe that children thrive when they are given a strong foundation in the Early Years and that every child deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential.

I strongly believe in the school's GROW values and feel they should be reflected not only within school but also in our wider community. Community is at the heart of everything we do at Padnell, and I am proud to support a school that values relationships, aspiration, and the wellbeing of every child and family.

I look forward to contributing to the continued success of Padnell Infant School and supporting our children as they grow, learn and flourish.

Emma Keegan
Clerk 

I have been a local authority clerk since 2014 and am currently attached to Padnell Infant School. My role is to provide administrative support and advice to the governing body on governance, constitutional and procedural matters. I have completed the Clerks' Development Programme and gained my Clerks' Accreditation with Merit. I also attend the biannual Clerks' Support Meetings run by Hampshire Governor Services and participate in whole governing body training.

 

Padnell Infant School
Membership 2026/2027

Name Governor Type Term from Term to Appointed by Roles Register of Interests
Ms Sarah Miles Parent governor 21 Sep 2026 20 Sep 2030 Parents IT, Website & Parent View None declared
Mrs Lisa Suter Parent governor 21 Sept 2026 20 Sep 2023 Parents   None declared
             
Mrs Mandy Grayson Headteacher 18 May 2015 31 Aug 2026 (retired) Virtue of Office  

Employed at the school

Husband employed at the school

Mrs Phillipa Inche Staff governor 1 Sept 2022 31 Aug 2026 Staff   Employed at the school
Mrs Jacqueline Jones Local Authority Governor 26 Feb 2024 25 Feb 2028 Hampshire County Council

Chair

HT Appraisal
Safer Recruitment

Curriculum

Pupil Premium

Pupil Progress

Grandchild at the school
Mr Mark Beetlestone Co-opted governor 11 Nov 2024 10 Nov 2028 GB Vice Chair
Teachers Pay
Allergy
 Safeguarding
 
Parent
Mrs Lindsay Garland Co-Opted Governor 14 Nov 2022 18 June 2026 (resigned) GB   None declared
             
Mrs Katherine Mew Co-opted governor 27 Sept 2021 (reappointed from 27 Sept 2025) 26 Sept 2029 GB

Teachers Pay
Early Years
Inclusion
Pupil Progress

Husband previously employed at the school
Ms Kate Morgan Co-opted governor 11 July 2023 10 July 2027 GB

Maths
Pupil Progress
Wellbeing

Employed at Horndean Technology College
Mr Roger Osborne Co-opted governor 18 May 2023 17 May 2027 GB

HT Appraisal
Financial Procedures
Forum Rep
Safer Recruitment
English

Governor at Padnell Junior School

Community Transport MiDAS trainer

Mr Peter Pennekett Co-opted governor 23 Sept 2024 22 Sept 2029 GB Financial Procedures
Teachers Pay
None declared
Mrs Jennifer Tyler Co-Opted Governor 7 Mar 2022 22 July 2026 (resigned) GB   Parent
Mr Paul Woolley Co-opted Governor 28 Sep 2026 27 Sep 2030 GB Development & Training
PE Premium
Parent 
County Counciller for Fareham Town
Mrs Paula Young Headteacher 1 Sep 2026   Virtue of Office

DSL

Safer Recruitment

Employed at the school
Mrs Emma Keegan Clerk     GB Clerk Employed by Hampshire County Council

    

Equalities Information Evidence and commentary
Current governor representation
(updated 28/09/2026)

4 Male
7 Female 
 

100% White British

Attendance 2025/26

 

Forename

Surname

Governors category

Meetings

Attended

Not Attended

Mark

Beetlestone

Co-opted Governor

9

7

2

Lindsay

Garland Co-opted Governor

9

6

3

Mandy

Grayson Headteacher

9

6

3

Philippa

Inche

Staff Governor

9

7

2

Jacqueline

Jones

Local Authority Governor

9

9

0

Emma

Keegan

Clerk

9

9

0

Katharine

Mew

Co-opted Governor

9

7

2

Kate

Morgan

Co-opted Governor

9

8

1

Roger

Osborne

Co-opted Governor

9 7 2

Peter

Pennekett

Co-opted Governor

9 8 1

Jennifer

Tyler Co-opted Governor

9

2 7

Paul

Woolley

Parent Governor

9 6 3

Paula

Young

Associate Member

9 9 0