Pen Portraits of the Governing Board

Here, in our own words, are some brief descriptions of the Governors of Stonehill School.

John Millar	I have been a Governor at the School since 1999, initially as a Parent Governor before becoming a Community Governor. In July 2011, I was appointed as Chair of Governors following a number of years as Vice-Chair. I am a fully qualified Management Accountant and use those skills to oversee the School’s Finances. My wife is from Letchworth and we have lived on the Grange Estate since 1988 and we have one daughter who attended the School and is now a Primary School Teacher. In business I am the Managing Director for a Manufacturing company, whose head office is based in Cambridgeshire. At Stonehill I am fortunate to work with supportive and passionate governors who give up their time to help make a difference. The right blend of skills and experience is important in ensuring that the strategic direction set can bring about the best possible outcomes for pupils.
Natasha Elliott	As a parent of a child currently attending Stonehill I am passionate about supporting my son’s education and wellbeing. With a professional background in Early Years education, I bring experience in early childhood development and the importance of early intervention. I want to contribute to the school’s continued success by representing the parent’s views and supporting inclusive, nurturing practices. I believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive, and I am looking forward to working with staff, governors and families to ensure the best outcomes for all pupils.
Grace Read	I am glad to be a part of Stonehill School's dedicated governing body. I care about education and about creating environments in which children can flourish. I have worked with children and young people in a variety education, pastoral and therapeutic settings for over 20 years. I currently work part time as a Family Support Worker at Stonehill School, and part time as a psychodynamic counsellor. I have a Diploma in Psychodynamic Counselling and a Post Graduate Certificate in Child, Adolescent and Family Mental Wellbeing. I use my knowledge and experience to support Stonehill in achieving its aims, particularly in regard to the mental health and wellbeing of the whole school community.
Jeni McCarthy	My son has been made to feel so special and welcome since starting in Reception in September 2021. He loves coming to school and the staff are always so friendly and supportive. We chose Stonehill because of its values and community feel. As a teacher myself for the last 15 years, I want to support the school to achieve its aims of delivering the curriculum effectively, creatively and enjoyably so that all of our children are inspired to be independent and curious lifelong learners.
Claire Sheff	I have been a Governor of Stonehill since 2019, initially as a parent governor when my two children were at school, and now as a co-opted governor. The school is very close to my heart; I grew up in Letchworth and attended Stonehill. I want to see Stonehill school and all its pupils thrive and achieve the very best they can. I felt that I could support this by becoming a Governor and that my previous experience working in health and social care with adults with learning disabilities, and my current job running a fish and chip shop, give me different perspectives and skills that are beneficial to a governing board. Safeguarding, equality & inclusion and seeing children as individuals, are always high on my agenda. I have been so impressed by the hard work, dedication and passion of the staff team at Stonehill and I look forward to continuing to support Stonehill in my role as governor.
Elaine Close	I am proud to be the Headteacher of Stonehill School. I joined the school and governing body in April 2014 and I work alongside an amazing team of staff and governors who consistently put the best interests of our pupils and community at the heart of everything we do. As the Designated Safeguarding Lead, I am responsible for ensuring the safety, health, and wellbeing of all pupils and staff. I am deeply committed to creating a nurturing and inclusive environment where every child feels valued and supported to achieve their full potential. We encourage our children to care for each other and our school and there is a strong sense of belonging and pride at Stonehill. I know every child in the school and it is a joy to see them grow and develop as individuals from their first day at Stonehill through to their last day in Year 6. Having lived in Letchworth Garden City for 16 years, I feel privileged to lead a school that plays such an important role within the local community. Working with our governors is an honour, and together we strive to provide the very best educational experience for all our children.
Jenna Hearson	I have been proud to be part of Stonehill School for 17 years and currently serve as both Deputy Headteacher and a governor. Over this time, I have had the privilege of watching our school grow, and I remain passionate about ensuring that every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to achieve their best. As both a leader and governor, I enjoy working closely with staff, pupils, families, and the wider community to keep our school a welcoming and ambitious place to learn.
Nick Phillips	I have been teaching at Stonehill for nearly 20 years. I also attended the school as a child so a large part of my life has been Stonehill School. I wouldn't have it any other way! I am currently Lower School Lead, Year 2 teacher, subject lead for Maths and PE and a governor. Having been brought up on the Grange Estate, I feel a real connection to the community. I really enjoy teaching and making a difference to children's lives. Stonehill is like a caring, dynamic and positive learning family and I am proud to be a part of it.