Southway Junior School

Governing Body

School Governors

Who We Are

Governing Body Information

How We Govern

Governors Charter

Dates of Meetings

Governor Updates

Elinor Wood

Parent Governor / Chair of Governors

I became a Parent Governor in March 2022 as I wanted to contribute my time and skills to the governance of this successful school.

I have two children - my eldest is at Southway and my youngest attends the Gattons Infant School.

I am a fundraiser by profession and currently lead the Alumni, Development & Archive team at Ardingly College .

Before moving into the education sector, I worked with a number of arts organisations, including the London Mozart Players and Fairfield Halls.

I studied History at University and continue to read history books for pleasure.

I am a keen amateur musician and enjoy playing cello with local orchestras .

Nikki Donson

Co-Opted Governor

I am currently the Assistant Head, Pastoral & Boarding at Burgess Hill Girls.

I started my career in the mainstream sector at a school in Nottinghamshire, as a music teacher however I have always had a pastoral element to my role.

I have also worked in a full boarding school in Oxfordshire as both a music teacher and resident Head of Year / Housemistress.

When not at work I am mainly found with Hector the spaniel or CrossFit training or swimming.

Judith Groome

Local Authority Governor

I am a retired primary school teacher with over 35 years teaching experience. I have been a Maths subject leader, Head of Key Stage 2, Assessment Co-ordinator and latterly Assistant Head of a large and diverse school in Mitcham in the London borough of Merton.

After retiring I was co-opted as a governor in another Merton School and was chair of governors for 2 years before moving to Sussex earlier this year.

I enjoy being a governor and I wanted to continue to do so at a local school and so I am delighted to have been offered the LA Governor position at Southway.

My underlying principle has always been to put children’s welfare and education first. My experience as a teacher, my knowledge of the education system and my understanding of what is required of a governor will hopefully be valuable to Southway Governing Body.

I have many other interests including being a hands-on grandma, travelling to different countries around the world (pre Covid of course!) art, gardening and volunteering on a community farm.

Charlotte Slade

Co-Opted Governor

As a research physicist and proud member of the LGBTQ+ community, I am excited to bring my passion for science, technology and inclusivity to the school Governing Board. With a PhD in Materials Physics and experience designing analytical instruments to characterise materials and surfaces, I have a deep understanding of the importance of creativity, teamwork and enthusiasm in driving progress.

As a health and safety professional; with experience in physical first aid, mental health first aid and an eclectic range of risk assessments; I am also committed to promoting a safe and inclusive environment for all. Beyond my professional work, I am passionate about outreach and education, particularly in STEM fields. As a qualified netball coach and umpire, I have worked with children and teams of all ages, and I understand the importance of crafting engaging and stimulating material that is tailored to the right audience. My volunteer work with children with cerebral palsy and mobility issues has given me a deep appreciation for the power of therapy and activity in improving physical, psychological and emotional well-being. My personal interests in gaming, foraging and exploring the world with my partner and rescued streetdog; now sofa-princess reflect my curiosity and love of learning.

I am thrilled to bring my diverse experiences and perspectives to the school Governing Body, and I look forward to working with the school community to promote excellent, innovation and inclusivity in education.

Laura Whitman

Staff Governor

I joined the Governing Body as a staff governor in 2020. Having taught at Southway for the past 6 years, I felt that becoming a governor, would allow me further opportunities to develop professionally and make different contributions to the school.

Originally, I began my time in education as a Teaching Assistant. Since then I have spent the last decade teaching across Key Stage 2, within West Sussex.

Most of my spare time is now filled with my young son, who is full of energy and keeps us busy. However, I can always find time to play netball in my local league too!

Sam MacGregor

Co-Opted Governor

I joined the Governing Body in 2023. I have two primary school age children not at Southway.

I am currently a Governance and Oversight Manager at a private investment firm with a focus on supporting governance processes and decision frameworks for Boards and Committees. I am an Associate of the Chartered Governance Institute UK & Ireland/qualified Company Secretary with a Masters in Law.

I moved to Burgess Hill two years ago after a long period of living and working abroad and am keen to support the community that has been so welcoming.

In my leisure time I enjoy long walks with Flump the dog and bike rides with my children.

Nick Winder

Parent Governor / Chair of Finance & Premises Committee

I have two children, my eldest son is at Southway and our youngest son is at nursery.

I was delighted to join the governing body in November 2019 as I wanted to contribute to the governing of the school and offer my experience as a Chartered Engineer, Manager and small business owner. I am very interested to learn from and work with the great team Southway has in place.

I have a masters in Mechanical Engineering & a strong passion for science and engineering having spent my career working primarily in R&D as a consultant engineer in the automotive industry, working on a range of projects for many of the world's car companies. More recently I managed a large engineering department and test and development facility

I now work part time on our family business, a hair salon in central Brighton and also as a technical consultant and project manager at a start-up which is designing and making a new marine engine.

I enjoy cycling & motor sport (although my days of participating are behind me... for the time being!)