Governors
Our School’s Governing Body is made up of representatives of the staff, parents, community, Church, and the Local Authority. They are all volunteers who give their time to help the school to provide the best possible education for its pupils.
The Governing Board sets the school’s aims and policies together with the Headteacher. Governors get to know the school by arranging visits during school hours to meet with staff and children to gain a proper understanding of our strengths and where there are areas for development. They access induction and have the opportunity to attend training and development events to enhance their knowledge and understanding.
No individual governor has any power unless delegated by the Governing Board. The Governing Board as a whole is responsible for any decisions made.
Please feel free to contact the Governors on horfield.governors@bristol-schools.uk with any ideas or concerns you may have. Please note that any issues concerning individual children should be raised with the class teacher or the Headteacher.
Richard Manley – Chair of Governors
Dr Louise Condon - Joint Vice-Chair
Foundation Governor and SEND link
I became a foundation governor at Horfield primary school in December 2022 and am taking on the role of SEND governor. My own children attended faith schools in Bristol, and my two grandchildren are now setting off on their educational journeys at primary school in South Glos. I have a great interest in early education, particularly in its contribution to children’s wellbeing and life chances. Professionally I have worked as a clinician and manager in the NHS, and most recently have been Professor of Nursing at Swansea University.
Dr Matthew King – Joint Vice-Chair
Co-opted Governor, Pupil Premium Link
I have lived in the local area since 2002 and through watching my son work his way through primary school (now Yr 7) I have seen and appreciated the value of Governors to the ongoing development of schools and the overall pupil experience. I am a strong believer in social mobility and the importance of primary school education as the foundation to pupils development and future aspirations. Professionally I have had a diverse career working in a number of roles in the University sector (mainly strategy development and management roles) before becoming a Management Consultant working across a range of sectors and organisations. I am the link Governor for pupil premium and also a member of the finance committee.
Rae Harris - Headteacher
Sharon Simmonds – Science Link
Staff Governor
It is a pleasure and a privilege to work and govern at Horfield CE VC Primary School. I have a passion for seeing children thrive in our school environment. I have been connected to Horfield for just over 20 years, and live in the local area. I have been a teacher here for 10 years, and I am currently a Deputy Safeguarding Lead, Key Stage 1 Leader, Computing Lead and Year 2 teacher. Prior to teaching here, my own children attended this school and received the most wonderful, rich education. I am just entering my second term as Staff governor. I endeavour to continue developing the outstanding school that is Horfield CE VC Primary School.
Charles Conquest
Foundation Governor
Natasha Walke
Parent Governor
Paul Dowlman - Deputy Headteacher
Co-opted Governor
Ben Fellows
Parent Governor
Governor Attendance
Governor Terms & Interests
Governor Terms & Interests September 2023
Recent Resignations
Kerri Vaughan October 2024
Emma Anstey March 2025
Laura Chilvers March 2025
Cathy Dillistone May 2025
Karen Dunmall (outgoing Chair of Governors) August 2025
Governors who have served within the last twelve months
Kerri Vaughan
Emma Anstey
Laura Chilvers
Cathy Dillistone
Karen Dunmall
