Vicky Laws

Chair of Governors

I  joined as a co-opted Governor at the end of the 2022/23 school year. My son has had a fantastic experience at Southwood and has flourished under the care of all the staff. I was involved with FSIS throughout his time there, and could see for myself how hard all the staff and governors worked for and cared for the children, striving for the very best in all aspects of education. Now my son has moved on to junior school I am interested in continuing to support Southwood on a more strategic level. I have already been involved in finance meetings - an eye-opening experience to see just how hard the school has to work to make each penny stretch as far as possible.  

Having been a physiotherapist for over 20 years I have been heavily involved in healthcare governance, so I am confident I have the skills to carry out this role effectively.  

 

Peter Bassett

Vice Chair of Governors  /  Chair of Finance

I joined Southwood Infants in October 2021 as a Local Authority Governor.  I have a long connection with the school as my two Grandsons attended from 2013.  They did well at the school and we and their parents (my daughter and her husband) were very happy with their progress and help provided.  Interestingly my Daughter-In-Law also attended the school in the early 90s and she hopes to send their son next year. I have been and still am an active Governor at a local Junior school from 2018 and have worked in various committees including finance and curriculum.  Since retiring I have become involved in various voluntary activities including Citizens Advice and working on the Watercress line.  One of the activities there has been helping with the school education programme with the visits to teach history topics including war time evacuation etc. and the many other rail related topics. 

 

 

Jonathan Charles

Governor 

I'm delighted to be a co-opted governor at Southwood Infant School. I am passionate about giving back to the community and making a positive impact on young learners. Education shapes futures and I am committed to helping every child get the best start in life. With experience in health and safety regulations and various leadership and management roles in the chemical manufacturing sector, I bring a strong focus on maintaining a safe and compliant environment. I also contribute to strategic governance, ensuring accountability and transparency.

This role is a fantastic opportunity to apply my skills in a meaningful way. I look forward to working with the dedicated leadership team and fellow governors to support the school's growth and help students thrive and reach their full potential.

Darren Hoare  

English Link Governor

 

 

I am a co-opted governor at Southwood Infants, starting in the autumn of 2023. Both my daughters have been through Southwood over the past six years, where I was engaged with the school both as a parent and an active member of the Friends of Southwood Infant school during that time. My family and I have enjoyed our time at Southwood Infants, and it is our wish, with myself becoming a governor, to help continue the positive journey the school is on. As an I.T. professional of over 25 years, working for a number of well-known organisations, I will be bringing my skills and enthusiasm to the governing body and staff here at Southwood. 

 

Sue Carpenter

Governor

 

 

I joined Southwood Infants Governing Body as a co-opted governor in July 2025. I have worked for over 40 years in primary education with a large proportion of my time being involved in teaching children with special needs and physical disabilities. Since retiring I have joined our local u3a, taking part in, and leading, various activities and was a member of its committee for 10 years.

I am looking forward to working with the friendly, hard-working team and hope that my experience will help me in my role and I can contribute to the development of the school in the coming years.

 

Honey Attridge

Governor

My daughter started Reception last September and is absolutely loving Southwood school! Southwood and its’ amazing staff have surpassed my expectations as a parent, and in return I would like to support them. I have a passion for early years education, my NHS role in the perinatal mental health sector reminds me every day how important a good start in life enhances children’s lives, and giving them a safe, enjoyable school environment provides a platform to excel in their learning.

I have been active in the FSIS, and am excited to learn more about how Southwood runs and how I can help with various aspects that the staff need to run the school. I am looking forward to getting started and meeting the challenge!

 

Rachel Park

Staff Governor