Governors
Our Governors see the school through the eyes of our learners. Each Governor has a ‘linked learner’ who they think about and consider during every meeting they attend and every visit they make. In this way, all conversations and decisions have our learners' best interests at the centre. During our planning days, they have the learner's photograph and profile in front of them as a reminder of how all school business should make a positive difference to this young person.
Key Roles
To hold the Headteacher to account for the educational performance of the school and its pupils, and the performance management of staff
To ensure clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction
To oversee the financial performance of the school and make sure its money is well spent
They also carry out a number of other important duties, including:
Setting and monitoring the school's aims and policies
Determining how the school's budget is spent
Forming policy on the school's curriculum and collective worship
Setting standards for learners
Making sure school buildings are welcoming and safe
Get to know our Governors below:
Paul Westenhofer
Chair to the Full Governing Body
Health and Safety Oversight and Curriculum journey
My son attended Glenwood school from 2007 to 2022 and I have been a governor since 2009.
The school has had many changes over the years and I am looking forward to embracing the challenges facing the school and assisting in it’s future development so that it can continue to provide the excellent education and services for future generations.
Emma Dawson
Co-opted Governor
Safeguarding and Curriculum link Governor
Emma is the Headteacher at Thundersley Primary School and the Chief Executive Officer of ROBUS Multi-Academy Trust. Emma was appointed to the Full Governing Body in October 2020.
Oliver Gale
Local Authority
Chair of Finance Strategy Group
Oliver is Head of Business Development for London & South-East at KPMG, where he manages a number of their priority accounts. He has always worked in client-facing roles and prides himself on his EQ and people skills. Oliver sought the opportunity to become a school governor as he wanted to give something back to local education. He jumped at the chance to join the board at Glenwood School as it’s such a wonderful place with excellent staff and such fantastic young people.
Mick Gillman
Co-opted Governor
Chair of Residential Strategy Group and Curriculum link
My youngest son has attended Glenwood since 2012 and I was immediately taken with the passion and care the staff showed, shortly afterwards I applied to become a governor as I felt the urge to get involved to help shape the future for not just my child but all the current and future learners at our amazing school. I have watched the school grow from the old facility to this fantastic new building we have along with The Glen and am excited so see what the future holds for Glenwood School. I am an engineer at Ford Motor Company with over 30yrs service and spent many years doing foreign service with them. I am also a RFU Level 2 Rugby Coach and took my eldest sons team from U6 to U18 and now enjoy Saturday afternoons on the side of the pitch as a spectator when I get a chance.
Michelle Westenhofer
Co-opted Governor
At the age of 3 years old in 2007 my son joined Glenwood school. I have been on an amazing journey with him and the school. Myself, my son, and my family have received amazing levels of support from Glenwood School.
My reason for becoming a governor at Glenwood school will always be to give back. I have a huge passion for inclusion and supporting the best outcomes for our children.
I am the Chief Executive Officer for the SHARE Charity where I have developed clubs and activities for children and young adults with multiple and complex needs across Essex.
Richard Orridge
Co-opted Governor
I have over 40 years experience within Banking, Account Management and Accountancy and am now working part time for a family business based in Basildon.
I applied to become a governor having been involved in fundraising for SHARE and became aware of Glenwood School.
I feel becoming a school governor will provide me with the ability to make a difference in education and young people's life's and am looking forward to the challenges ahead and working with everyone involved at Glenwood School.
Joel Coady
Newly elected Parent Governor
Nicola Woodruff
Staff Governor
I first joined Glenwood as a teacher in January 2003. Over twenty years I have taught across the full age and needs range of Glenwood learners. I joined the governing body as Staff Governor as I wanted to be part of making a bigger contribution to school improvements including more fully understanding the holistic running of the school and challenging ourselves to create the best Glenwood we can together.
Liz Cornish
Headteacher
Liz is the Headteacher at Glenwood, appointed in September 2019.
Sally Waddingham
Associate Member
Deputy Headteacher
.jpeg)
Sally is the Deputy Headteacher at Glenwood and is an Associate Member.