Governance

Paula Violet

LA Governor Chair

I have taught in Secondary Education all my working life. Prior to retiring I was an Assistant Head Teacher in a large Secondary School in East London. I supported University students training to be teachers and mentored Newly Qualified teachers in their Induction Year at my school. I planned the Training programme for all Staff. I have been a Governor since 2016 and as Chair I am privileged to lead a team of committed and dedicated Governors. Being a Governor at Harlow Fields has given me a greater understanding and insight into the education of children with Special Needs. I value the hard work of all the Staff at the school and my aim is to always support them in any way I can and especially in developing the Teaching and Learning of the amazing children and young people. Harlow Fields is a Special school in every way and I am proud to be a part of it.

Kathleen Faherty

Head Teacher

Simon Dewhurst

Co-opted Governor / Vice Chair

Simon joined the Governing Body in March 2021. He works at a local accountancy firm in Bishop's Stortford and also has a knowledge of the special needs sector through his volunteering work with local charity Grove Cottage. Simon is Chair of the Finance, Premises and Personnel Committee and is also a link to Upper School with a particular focus on Behaviour and Attitudes. He has a passion for ensuring that Harlow Fields continues to thrive and provide a good education to all pupils."

Penny Sutton

Governor

Nick Young

Governor

Jason Wong

Governor

Megan Hood

Staff Governor

Rebecca Willers

Staff Governor

Sarah Dodd

Co-opted Governor

As a deputy head in a local primary school, I have accumulated 18 years of experience working in primary schools across East London and Essex. During my career, I have been a member of the safeguarding team in several schools, which has equipped me with a deep understanding of this crucial aspect of school governance. I am excited to bring this knowledge and experience to my role as a governor at Harlow Fields. In addition to my professional background, I have also served as a staff governor in the past, giving me valuable insight into the governance process. I am eager to leverage this prior experience to support the school and its pupils in any way that I can. I look forward to working closely with the school's leadership team, staff, and other stakeholders to ensure that Harlow Fields continues to provide an exceptional educational experience for all its pupils.

Tracey Crowe

Associate Governor

I am an Associate Governor and parent of a child who attends Harlow Fields School. I also currently work in a local mainstream setting with children who have SEND. I previously worked in the legal sector for 18 years, serving on various committees prior to becoming a mother, which is how I was introduced to the complexities of SEND. I am passionate about improving the provision and outcomes of children and young people who have additional needs. To add to my previous legal experience, I have undertaken training in SEND law as well as various other courses relating to autism, ADHD, speech and language therapy, Makaton, psychology and wellbeing. I have also spent time volunteering for a national charity on their telephone helplines providing legally based advice regarding SEND law. My experiences have given me much insight and a broad understanding of SEND from many perspectives. I am dedicated to working with Harlow Fields to support the school community and the education of all pupils to enable them to have the best possible opportunities for development and to achieve their desired outcomes.

Claire Mabbutt

Parent Governor

As a devoted mum of two boys who attend Harlow Fields, the school has been an inclusive, supportive and caring environment. I worked in local government alongside the police for 17 years, which was a career that I loved. Within the licensing regime I was instrumental in policy work, understanding legislation and advising committees. I would like to play an active role in helping to improve things for both students and parents alike. As a Parent Governor, I will help foster transparency between the school and parents to promote the “community” aspect of our school.

Christophe Preaudat

Parent Governor

My child has been on roll at Harlow Fields School and College since Year 2 and is moving to 6th form next year. As a parent, I know and understand how challenging it can be with 1 child with special needs. This is why I wanted to give back and help however I could this wonderful school, where so many people look after and educate our children.