Governor Profiles
Pat Cox, Chair
I was appointed to the governing body in November 2016 as a Co-opted member.
I have lived in Moulsham since 1981 when I moved here, from East London, with my husband and two sons. An Early Years graduate from Anglia Ruskin University I have recently retired as Manager of Dovedale Nursery and Out of School care, a post I held for some 20 years.
I like to be busy and have organised a Girls Brigade group in Chelmsford for many years. I have been involved with the organisation since I was 13 years old.
I was pleased to be asked to become a governor at Moulsham, an opportunity to serve the local community whilst maintaining an interest in education and seeing children thrive and reach their full
Philippa Edwards, Community Governor
I became a Community Governor in February 2023, while my eldest daughter was in Year 1. I also have a younger daughter who is very enthusiastic about joining Moulsham Infants. As a parent, I felt compelled to get involved with school life because my daughter has been very happy at Moulsham Infant School and has flourished under the guidance of the excellent teaching staff and nurturing community.
I have worked in teaching for almost twenty years and I am dedicated to and passionate about the difference schools and teaching can make in children's lives. I am in charge of History in an Essex-based secondary school but have also worked in a pastoral role, as Head of Upper School Girls, and have led on Literacy across the curriculum.
I hope that my experience in the education system and the care and commitment I take into the role as a parent of two young children, can help to make a difference and support the children, staff and broader community. It really feels like every child is well-known, nurtured and encouraged, and it's one of the things which really sets this school apart
Helen Fletcher, Community Governor
My daughter started at Moulsham Infant School in 2021 and my son will be due to start in 2026.
When my daughter started at Moulsham Infant School, we had recently moved to Chelmsford and we were welcoming our son. Through the changes at home, the school provided such a welcoming and supportive environment where she settled so well, that I felt I wanted to give back where I can.
My professional background is in business and finance and I hope to use that to support the school.
Gwyneth West, Parent Governor
I have a son in year 2 and a daughter due to start in 2025. I was born and brought up in Chelmsford and moved back to the area to put down roots and for our children to go to school here. As my son has thoroughly flourished since being at Moulsham Infants School, and we have been so happy with our choice for him to attend here, I was really keen to get more involved in and do something to give back to the wider school community. Although not from an education background professionally, both my parents were teachers and I have always had a keen interest in education. I am an employment lawyer and have previously advised schools, helping me to see matters from another perspective. I hope to be able to bring my skills and experiences to support the school in continuing to be a successful and nurturing environment for our children.
Darren Horsman, Parent Governor
My partner and I returned to the UK with our two kids in 2016 having lived and worked in New Zealand for seven years. We chose to move to Moulsham after visiting the infant school and deciding it was where we wanted our son and daughter to go to school.
It is a great school and moving to the area has been a great choice for us as a family. Louis and Isabelle have both settled in to their new environment and made friends and we have enjoyed getting to know the other parents and being part of the school community.
I became a parent governor because I wanted to contribute to the school and also get involved with the local community. I was on the board for Louis and Isabelle's nursery in New Zealand. I really enjoyed the experience, learnt a lot and am enjoying learning more about the school and helping it continue to be successful.
Martin McCarthy, Co-opted Governor
I joined the governing body at the end of 2022, a few months after my son started at the school. I grew up in the local area before moving to China to teach at international schools and private language institutions. I now work at the local university in the field of international partnerships, which gives the opportunity for people overseas to study for a UK degree. My career has given me experience in quality assurance in education, financial management and project management, skills which I hope to put to use as a governor.
I've been extremely impressed by the passion and dedication of all the staff at Moulsham Infant School and their desire to help every child reach their potential and love learning. I look forward to playing a part in helping the school continue to thrive.