Governing Body

Introduction From The Governing Body

The Governing Body at Copley Junior School is a democratic group of people, including parents, members of staff and members of the local community, who work as a team for the benefit of the school.  They are fully involved in the life of the school and meet regularly to support and challenge the school to provide the best outcomes and opportunities for the children at Copley.

The Governing Body has many responsibilities including:

• Making sure that the school has the capacity to improve and raise standards of learning and teaching;
• Making sure that the school continually maintains high standards of safeguarding and behaviour;
• Making sure that the school sets a strong budget and that spending is linked directly to school improvements;
• Approving and monitoring the school’s budget and spending throughout the year;
• Keeping abreast of new educational initiatives so that they are able to support and challenge school leaders.

As governors we look to keep lines of communication open with the school and its community.  Should you wish to contact me please do so via the school office.

Mr A. J. Buxton, Chair of the Governing Body

Meet our Governors 

Chair

Mr Andrew Buxton  

LA Appointed Governor

I have over 30 years experience working in primary schools with high levels of deprivation, both in Doncaster and the North East of England, including four years as a teacher in a Junior School. I have had almost 20 years of successful experience as a head teacher in two schools in Doncaster, with the most recent school being graded outstanding by OFSTED. OFSTED described me as an ‘inspirational’ leader, and described the school as ‘a first class example of its kind’.

I have also been a Trustee at a Multi-Academy Trust for over two years, and a Vice-Chair of Governors at a Local Governing Body of a through Primary Academy. These are roles I thoroughly enjoy. 

Having been a free school meals child myself, I am very passionate about outcomes for Disadvantaged and Vulnerable Pupils, and raising aspirations for all pupils. I believe in supporting them to aspire to succeed and working towards their goals. In this I feel the values and approach at Copley Junior School are in synch with my beliefs and I am totally committed to supporting its future development. I am also passionate about developing school staff at all levels, and the leaders of the future. 

Away from education I am a passionate cricket fan, and love to travel, as well as being a voracious reader.

Vice Chair 

Mrs Janine Reid

Co-opted Governor

My name is Janine Reid and I recently joined the wonderful team of governors at Copley in September 2023. I have been a school governor for over 20 years at our local community school in Barnburgh, where my 3 boys attended, carrying out various roles and responsibilities including Safeguarding, SEND and inclusion, Curriculum lead governor, Finance, staff recruitment and performance management of teachers including the Headteacher. I am hoping that some of the skills and experiences I have can help support further the staff, parents and children at Copley and I look forward to meeting some of you but especially your amazing children and community. I work 4 days a week as a childminder, so Early Years and supporting the growth of all children, regardless of age or ability has always been very dear to me, as has parental engagement. Children are so diverse and willing to learn and share experiences. Their individuality never ceases to amaze and bring a smile to my face and brighten the day.

I see my role as to support, monitor and challenge appropriately and effectively the team at Copley to enable the children to become the best form of themselves that they can and give them a good start to their future selves in a welcoming and safe environment where every child feels valued.

Ex-Officio/Acting Head of School

Miss Phyll Havercroft

I began my teaching career in 2009 and worked for Playing4Success, who offered a vibrant and unique learning environment for students (Keepmoat and Castle Park), using the sporting stars and facilities around them to engage underachieving pupils in Key Stage Two. I then worked at West Road Primary School in FS2, Y3 and Y4 and became the SENCo. After 5 years, I moved to Copley Junior School and became the Assistant Headteacher for Inclusion. I have taught Y3, Y4 and Y6 and love the fact that the open plan nature of our school creates a calm and supportive environment for all. During my teaching career, I have also been the lead for science, computing and maths.

Since becoming Acting Head of School, I have relished the opportunity to work with our whole community to make sure we are providing the best education for our pupils.

Parent Governors 

Mrs Filippa England 

I have has significant experience in primary education leadership. My current role as Director of Teaching and Learning for a Multi-Academy Trust has allowed me to make a significant impact across various educational settings both within schools and local authorities. As an outstanding practitioner, I bring a profound understanding of research-based practices that enhance student outcomes. These will be invaluable in my role as a primary school governor. In addition to my professional expertise, I am a parent who lives in the community, instilling in me a strong desire to see the school succeed. My personal investment in the school’s future motivates me to contribute positively to the education of all students at Copley Junior School.

Vacancy

Co-opted Governors 

Mr Gavin Rimmington 

During my years as a governor, I’ve tended to provide support to the governing body around finance and corporate governance matters. I’m always in awe of the children on the odd time I make it into school, a brilliant combination of inquisitiveness and confidence that is brilliantly articulated. Equally as both a governor and former parent (two children have attended Copley) I value the dedication and professionalism of all the staff in school. Not sure how many years as a governor I have left in the tank, due to work and personal commitments my time has been limited of late but while ever I can add some value or even be a reference to the past I’ll try to contribute.

Mrs Jayne Elliott 

I am an experienced education professional with a background in school leadership, particularly in improving schools in challenging circumstances. As a former primary school headteacher, I have worked to move schools from special measures to a good standard, with a strong focus on high standards and improving opportunities for pupils.

Currently, I work with a local authority as a SEND and Inclusion Manager, supporting multiple schools to establish, monitor, and improve provision for pupils with additional needs. My role involves quality assurance, advising on best practices, and ensuring that all children receive the support they need to succeed.

As an Excellence Lead in Education, I have a particular interest in Pupil Premium and the impact of research-led strategies on improving outcomes. I am passionate about making education inclusive and equitable for all learners, helping schools create environments where every child can thrive.

Vacancy 

Staff Governor 

Miss Hollie Carrington 

Associate Governor 

Mrs Liz Roebuck 

Mrs Sarah Cairns (Executive Headteacher)