Our Governors

Governors' Welcome

Welcome to Chyngton School Local Governing Board. We are a hard-working and friendly team, committed to helping the school be the best it can be.

Governors are often referred to as “critical friends”, and our role is to support and question on all aspects of school life. We meet formally about seven times a year, and regularly visit the school on many other occasions to help us fulfil our duties. We get involved in interviews, monitor school developments and standards, and keep an eye on the school budget. We help oversee the school building and grounds, check on attendance, manage the headteacher’s performance and support pupil and staff welfare. Perhaps our most important job is to shape the direction and vision of the school alongside the trustees of Seaford Learning Trust. This means looking at the curriculum, staffing and our ethos. Mr Tollyfield and Miss Clarke are responsible for the day-to-day running of the school and governors concentrate on the ‘big picture’, asking themselves “What sort of school would we like to see in five years’ time?” “What do we have to do to get there?”, and “How will we know when we have got there?”

If you would like to contact the governors, please ask at the school office or email our Clerk on clerk@chyngton-primary.e-sussex.sch.uk. Our minutes are available on request.

Governors

Mrs Jane Branson

Co-Chair of Local Governing Board

Appointed Local Governor

Experienced teacher and education advisor.

Especially interested in reading and writing.

Loves books, cats, theatre and baking!

Mr Chris Mercer

Co-Chair of Local Governing Board

Appointed Local Governor

Experienced physiotherapist and team lead.
Special interest in staff development.

Keen if hapless surfer.

Mrs Jacky Cross

Vice Chair of Local Governing Board

Appointed Local Governor

Background in education.

Especially interested in Science.

Ms Gaynor Newnham

Clerk to Governors

Mr Robin Tollyfield

Co-Headteacher

I have been headteacher at Chyngton for the past nine years.

I am enjoying developing our school curriculum so that it is as relevant and engaging as possible.

I am very interested in neuroscience and how it links to mental health.

In my spare time I do a bit of music production & mixing.

Miss Amy Clarke

Co-Headteacher

I have worked at Chyngton for the last six years as the Deputy Headteacher and recently I have taken on the role of Co-Headteacher working alongside Robin Tollyfield. I love working with all of the children and staff at Chyngton and supporting everyone to be the best they can possibly be. I am passionate about making the most of every opportunity that is given to us and making sure that all children have opportunities to experience exciting and aspirational learning, visits and experiences. This included making sure we make the most of our local community and area, as well as inviting interesting people and organisations into our school. In my spare time I enjoy exploring the world and teaching my dog new tricks.

Mrs Tara Burn

Associate Local Governor

I bring 15 years experience in education and training as a director of a successful health, safety and training business.
I have two children at the school.
In my spare time I work for the ambulance services in the 999 control room and look after the family puppy!

Ms Elizabeth Bromley

Appointed Local Governor

I am an experienced teacher and am currently Second in charge of the Maths department at Seaford Head School. I have always lived locally and am passionate about shaping the future of students’ education. In my spare time, I enjoy running, reading and cooking.

Mrs Jemima Hutchinson

Associate Local Governor

I have worked in safeguarding, youth and children's services for local government for over 16 years now. Specialist interest in safeguarding and CSE. I have always lived in Seaford and went to Chyngton as a child myself.

Mrs Chris Jennings

Appointed Local Governor

I am a mother of 4 children. I jointly started and ran Chyngton playground for 15 years. I also have experience of teaching and working with children and adults with learning difficulties. I have been a Governors at Chyngton since 2008.

Mrs Claire Guy

Claire Guy

Staff Local Governor

I have worked at Chyngton for 3 years as a class teacher and I am the science lead. I am passionate about giving back to the community and supporting children to reach their full potential.

I love spending time with my family and have 2 very sporty boys. In my spare time I sea swim, run, bike and walk on the downs.

Mrs Linsey Scotcher

Parent Local Governor

I have two young children who attend Chyngton.
Having always been keen on reading and learning, I’m really passionate about education.
My other passion is running, having done countless fun runs and a couple of half marathons over the years.

Mr Russell Wood

Parent Local Governor

I have two children at Chyngton.
I have always enjoyed my education and hope to assist the school with bringing that to the next generation.

Ms Carly Perou

Associate Local Governor

I am currently a SEND Teacher. I have worked as a SENCO for 7 Years and as a Secondary English teacher prior to this. I also run the Outdoor Learning Program at Seaford Head School, which allows me to indulge in my love of animals and the outdoors!