I live very near the school and all my three children attended. I originally became a Parent Governor for the usual reasons - I wanted to make sure my children were at a good school. They all had a great time at Craneswater and I felt I should carry on as a Governor. I became Chair of Governors in September 2022 after being vice Chair for a number of years. I also have responsibility for health and safety. These roles relate to my job as a manager with BT where I worked locally for many years, but I’m now retired. In my spare time I enjoy what Albert Road has to offer, playing golf, supporting Portsmouth FC, and travelling.

I am a Co-opted Governor at Craneswater Junior School. My working background is information technology, have worked for a large computer company for 28 years. I live in Southsea with my wife and two children who went through Craneswater School themselves. I was impressed by the dedication and enthusiasm of the staff who are committed to both excellent teaching and the all-round development of children. They provide a nurturing environment in which children can grow into happy, confident and caring young people. I am keen to support the school along this path in my role as Governor and ensure they continue to deliver the same opportunities to all children in the future. My main leisure interest is scuba diving (but only in warm water!).

I moved back to Portsmouth (my hometown) in 1993 after a 15 year teaching career in East London. At the time I was making a shift from Primary School Teacher to University Lecturer and wanted to stay involved with schools in some way and becoming a governor at Craneswater seemed a great way to do that. I can’t believe how quickly the time has gone and the fact that I am still here reflects how much I feel a part of the school and its development. What I really like about Craneswater is the happy atmosphere and the range of activities that go on in and outside of the classroom; especially the school play!

My own career has taken me into local politics and I am a city councillor in Central Southsea ward, where many Craneswater children live, so I engage a lot with the families and support the local community in any way I can. I am currently the Cabinet Member for Children, Families and Education as well as being Deputy Leader of the Council. Nothing is more important to me than supporting every child to have high aspirations and attainment in all that that they want to achieve.
 

I am very proud to be a Parent Governor.  My son completed four happy years at Craneswater before moving onto Secondary School; my daughter is currently in Year 4. We have been so happy at Craneswater and I want to ensure that the fantastic work continues.  Originally from Australia but now love living in Southsea, I am a teacher at a Portsmouth secondary school. I specialise in working with pupils with Special Educational Needs. Prior to this I lived in London and worked at a large inner-city school. I hope to use my experience working in education to benefit Craneswater.