Governor Profiles

Phil Calrow - Chair of Governors

Link Role: SEND & Vulnerable Groups

I have been a governor at Meadowside for 7 years now. I have the great honour of being the chair of the governing body, and this is a role I undertake with a huge amount of pride. I work as a primary school teacher at another school in the town, so I can really bring a solid understanding of educational issues to each meeting. My favourite part of being a governor is seeing the tremendous work taking place in our wonderful school. 

Aidy Burrows - Co-Vice Chair

Link Role: Quality of Education - Curriculum 

I have been a governor at Meadowside since 2018, initially as a parent governor and now as a co-opted governor.  I've had 2 children come through the school and they both thrived during their time and look back with fond memories. To see all the work that goes on behind the scenes from a governor's point of view is a privilege and I can see why the children continue to flourish. The small part and oversight that I may be able to provide to the school is very gratifying. Personally I have work experience in the games industry as an environment artist and now create 3D assets and training for people to learn the skills to make 3D art, as a private educator I hope I can give some insight or feedback wherever I can to help the school. 

Gareth Harris - Co-Vice Chair

Link Role: Quality of Education - Standards

I am currently Principal and Beamont Collegiate Academy which Meadowside feeds into. It is important for the local community to have strong links between schools and that is the case with BCA and Meadowside. Prior to becoming Principal at BCA I have held senior leadership positions in schools in Manchester and London.

Claire Curtis - Headteacher

As the new headteacher and governor of Meadowside Primary School, I am committed to making a positive impact on the education and lives of the children in our community. My role on the board is to work collaboratively with governors, primarily by reporting on progress on all key aspects of the school.

I am a firm believer in creating a safe, nurturing, and inclusive learning environment where every child feels valued, supported, and challenged to reach their full potential. I have a strong focus on building positive relationships with staff, students, parents, carers, and the wider community to ensure we work collaboratively to provide the best possible education for our children.

I am excited about the journey ahead and look forward to working with the governors and school community to achieve our shared goals and aspirations for our children.

Dr. Sarah Dixon - Co-opted Governor

Link Role: Personal Development

I have lived in Warrington since 1989, and worked as a local GP until retirement. I became involved in Helping Hands Changing Lives CIC during the Covid-19 pandemic, and through this remarkable team was introduced to Meadowside Primary School.

I have previous experience as a Governor and Chair of Governors at a private Preparatory school in the 1990s.  I believe passionately in working to support local communities and see my role as a School Governor as a crucial part of that work.

The experience a child has at Primary school has the potential to shape the rest of their lives. I am delighted to be involved with Meadowside Primary School, which takes enormous pride and care in educating and inspiring all its pupils so that every child can maximise their potential.

Jenny Gill - Parent Governor

Link Role: Finance 

I am a mum of two girls who attend Meadowside and I am passionate about children having a well rounded experience of school, with access to the best educational opportunities and developing a healthy mindset that strives for children to believe in themselves. 

Nicola Whyte - Co-opted Governor

Link Role: Safeguarding, Behaviour & Welfare 

I am currently an attendance officer for Warrington Borough Council and support Meadowside in ensuring that the children who have low attendance receive the support they may need in order to improve this. My previous role was as a Family Support Worker for Warrington, I have good knowledge of services in Warrington that can support children and their families. I know the local area well and am aware of wider issues that may be impacting on children achieving their full potential. I am passionate about sharing my knowledge by working closely with the welfare team to ensure all children and families within the school who may need some extra support receive this.

Kerry Woods - Staff Governor

Link Role: Premises, Health & Safety 

I have been the Staff Governor of Meadowside since 2016 after being elected by colleagues. I was also a Parent Governor at my children's school between 2010 and 2014. I have a wealth of knowledge in Health and Safety, Mental Health, Finance and Education all of which help me to complete my duties at a high standard. I am committed to the safety and welfare of everyone in the school community. As a Higher Level Teaching Assistant and Senior Mental Health Lead, I am on the premises everyday and this enables to me be a a critical friend to staff, pupils, parents and governors.