We are blessed with a dedicated and effective Governing Body, Ofsted (July 2024) recognised:

'Governors are forward-thinking and ambitious for the pupils and community, ensuring staff feel supported with manageable workloads and prioritising well-being.”

Please find below details of current members of the Governing Body, including the names, categories, responsibilities and terms of appointment for each Governor.

I initially moved to Cumbria to finish off my Forestry studies at Newton Rigg in 2000 and like many others fell in love with the area and have stayed ever since.  I have been fortunate to be able to follow my forestry career path with a number of local companies and Estates over the years and continue to work in the Forestry sector,  with cross-over to Energy production, Horticulture, Processing, and Logistics.

Emma and I moved to Shap over 10 years ago, as it provided a great location for both work and for us to enjoy the outdoors, as well as a thriving community spirit which we felt was key for raising a future family.  We both have a passion for the outdoors and love to get out on our bikes, fell walking, climbing or a bit of running every now and then, and more recently have enjoyed sharing these experiences with our 2 young children.

The first proper introduction to Shap school was a lovely tour around the facilities with our Daughter, where we found all of the staff we were introduced to had a real passion for the school and their pupils. Our Daughter is now in Year 3 and our Son in the reception class and both are thoroughly enjoying their time at school.

My first term as Governor has been so rewarding, working with such a dedicated team at the school along with fellow Governors and all the support staff that make the place so special.

As of November 2024 I have taken on the Chair of Governors role and I’m really looking forward to the additional challenges and opportunities it will bring.

Appointed: March 2021

Term of Office: 4 years 

Appointed as a Foundation Governor by St Michael's PCC 

No Business or Pecuniary Interests or material interests arising from intra-governor or staff relationships

Simon is Co-Chair of the Resources Committee 

Attendance last year: Full Governing Body Meetings: 2/3, Resources Committee Meetings: 3/3

 

 

Mrs Julie Graham - Vice Chair

Get to know Julie:

I have lived in Shap since August 2016. As a family we enjoy being so close to the countryside and all the wonderful places in the Lake District. I have two children one who attends the school and one who has recently moved on from Shap School to QEGS.  Before moving to Shap I worked for nine years for a Women’s Aid group supporting survivors of domestic abuse. I have also worked for the Youth Offending Service as part of a mentor scheme. I currently work for Westmorland & Furness Council and am able to use some of these skills and experience in my role as a governor. I am part of the school Resources and Educational Standards committees.  I am also the link governor for Safeguarding and the subjects of Maths, Geography and History.

I admire the hard work and dedication of all of the children and staff of Shap C of E School and would like to also thank all the families and local community for your ongoing support.

Appointed: October 2018 (currently in second term of office)

Term of Office: 4 years 

Appointed as a Foundation Trust Governor by the Lonsdale Trust 

No business or pecuniary interests or material interests arising from intra-governor or staff relationships

Julie is Co-Chair of the Resources Committee and a member of the Educational Standards Committee

Attendance last year: Full Governing Body Meetings: 3/3, Resources Committee Meetings: 3/3, Educational Standards Committee Meetings: 2/3

 

Get to know Sarah:

I’m the parent of two boys, Thomas and Matthew. Thomas has recently moved to secondary school and Matthew is in year 5 at Shap. Thomas really enjoyed his time at Shap School, particularly all the extra trips and activities, with the year 5 and year 6 residentials being a particular highlight!

I’m currently part of the Friends of Shap School (FOSS) committee and have been involved with their fundraising activities over the past 6 years to support and add to the school’s activities and resources. I’m have also been the Treasurer of Shap Swimming Pool for 5 years, helping to keep this community asset going. This is particularly valuable for the school swimming lessons and other school swimming events that take place there. 

In my working life, I’m a project manager working across Cumbria, Northumberland and southern Scotland, helping to deliver a regional growth deal programme. I have previously worked in marketing and communications jobs in banking, the civil service and the Forestry Commission. I'm pleased I've been able to bring the experience and skills from all these roles to my governor role, particularly with regards to grant funding raising and as a member of the resources committee.

Appointed: July 2021

Term of Office: 4 years 

Appointed as a Parent Governor by the Governing Body to represent the Parents as no other election candidates

No Business or Pecuniary Interests or material interests arising from intra-governor or staff relationships

Sarah is a member of the Resources Committee

Attendance last year: Full Governing Body Meetings: 1/3, Resources Committee Meetings: 2/3

 

Get to know Siobhan:

I was officially appointed to the post of Clerk to Governors in March 2020, after a short period of acting Clerk from the beginning of the year.  This is the second time I have held this position, the first time was from early 2005 until the birth of my second child in 2009.

I have lived in Shap since early 2003, prior to this I lived and worked all over the country as an Outdoor Pursuits Instructor working mainly with young people, followed by a period as an Operations Manager for a Walking Holiday Company. I continue to enjoy walking, canoeing and open water swimming with my family.

I am an Explorer Scout Leader in the Eden Valley managing a team of fellow leaders and around forty young people offering a wide and varied programme to equip teenagers with valuable skills for life.

The Clerk's role is one of administration, support and advising, alongside administering three full governing boards meetings each year.

 

Get to know Katie:

Originally from the North East, I moved to Cumbria with my husband and twin boys in 2006. Teaching has always been my passion, and I have had the privilege of working in a variety of schools across Northumberland, Stockport, and Cumbria. My experience spans large town schools, inner-city schools, and small village schools, providing me with a broad perspective on different educational settings.

I have a particular passion for outdoor and environmental education, as well as history and geography, and I have often led these subjects in the schools where I have worked. In addition, I have taken on leadership roles in English, PE, PSHE, and EYFS. My deep interest in how children learn led me to complete a PGCE in Special Educational Needs in 2007. Since then, I have served as a school SENDCo and Enrichment Coordinator, supporting children to reach their full potential.

Since joining Shap CE School in 2012, I have primarily taught in Catbells Class alongside Mrs. Kelsall. In 2013, I was appointed Assistant Headteacher, and following the retirement of our previous Headteacher, Anne Maud, I stepped into the role of Acting Headteacher in 2019. I was delighted to become the substantive Headteacher in November 2021—a role that I thoroughly enjoy and take great pride in.

As Headteacher, I work closely with our dedicated Governing Body Leadership Team to oversee our full governing body and subcommittee meetings. Our governors are a hard working and committed team, focused on driving school improvement. I was especially pleased that their efforts were recognised in our recent Ofsted inspection, which highlighted: "Pupils are happy and enjoy each day spent in this small, friendly, and nurturing school."

I am proud to lead such a wonderful school community and remain committed to providing an enriching, supportive, and inspiring environment for all our pupils.

Appointed: Ex-officio

Term of Office: Not applicable

Business and Pecuniary Interests: Director M60tvLtd, Trustee Second Chance Charity Shop, Shap with no material interests arising from intra-governor or staff relationships

Katie is a member of the Resources Committee and Educational Standards Committee

Attendance last year: Full Governing Body Meetings: 3/3, Committee Meetings: 6/6

 

Get to know Steve:

I came to live and work in Cumbria in 1994 before settling in Shap over 24 years ago. I have two children who both had a great start in their education at Shap School and are now at university. I have been a governor since 2008, gaining experience on various sub-committees, and spending some time as vice-chair, before becoming Chair in 2018. Last year, I stepped back from this lead role but I am continuing on the governing body as ‘past chair’.

For over 24 years I worked, in the UK and abroad, as a trainer and consultant in leadership and team working skills. This experience has made me even more keenly aware what a great staff and leadership team we have at the school. Since Covid, I have re-trained and now work in healthcare.

I see my role as a governor as ensuring that we create the very best environment we can to enable the school to continue to flourish, for the benefit of our children and the whole community. Being a school governor isn't always a bed of roses, but a visit to our lovely school never fails to leave me with a smile on my face.

Appointed: April 2008 (currently in fourth term of office)

Term of Office: 4 years

Appointed as a Foundation Governor by St Michael's PCC 

No business or pecuniary interests or material interests arising from intra-governor or staff relationships

Steve is a member of the Resources Committee

Attendance last year: Full Governing Body Meetings: 1/3, Resources Committee Meetings: 0/3

 

Miss Helen Jackson

 

Get to know Helen:

I have had the privilege of working at Shap school since September 2014, having previously worked in a much larger inner-city school in Carlisle.

Having grown up on a farm on the outskirts of Penrith and attending a village primary school myself, I was delighted to be able to make the move to join such a warm and friendly small school team who are dedicated to knowing and nurturing the pupils in their care.

During my time at Shap School, I have had the pleasure of teaching many Year 1 and 2 children in Kidsty Pike class. I have thoroughly enjoyed contributing to the development of both the indoor and outdoor learning environments, enhancing the Key Stage One curriculum, and expanding our range of enrichment activities.

In my spare time, I enjoy exploring the lakes, spending quality time with my nieces and nephew, and cooking for friends and family—Sunday lunch is a particular specialty of mine. I also occasionally lend a hand in the milking parlour on the family farm.

As a Staff Governor I hope that I am able to make a difference, utilising my first-hand experience of Shap School’s day-to-day processes and procedures as well as my knowledge about the pupils, staff and curriculum to aid discussions and decision making for the benefit of all.

Appointed: January 2024

Term of Office: 4 years 

Appointed as Staff Governor by the Staff of Shap CE School

No Business of Pecuniary Interests or material interests arising from intra-governor or staff relationships

Helen is a member of the Educational Standards Committee

Attendance last year: N/A

 

Get to know Rib:

Originally from Yorkshire, I moved here 30 years ago to train as a teacher. After falling in love with Cumbria I remained here, working in Outdoor centres and schools, watching children and adults develop in a range of settings.

When considering which school to enroll my son in, we attended the ‘Come and Play’ afternoons and I was always struck by the warm and welcoming atmosphere that met us. From these sessions, I knew that he would flourish in this lively and nurturing environment and I was very happy when he joined Catbells.

As a parent governor my role is twofold; to support the staff and share in their successes but also to hold them to account in their strategic decisions.  It’s challenging but extremely rewarding.  I'm privileged to be part of a team of Governors that will collectively help the school ensure our children achieve their full potential.

Appointed: September 2017 (currently in second term of office)

Term of Office: 4 years 

Appointed as a Parent Governor by the Governing Board to represent Parents as no other election candidates

Business and Pecuniary interests:  Governor, Sandgate School, Kendal with no material interests arising from intra-governor or staff relationships

Rib is a member of the Educational Standards Committee

Attendance last year: Full Governing Body Meetings: 2/3, Educational Standards Committee Meetings: 2/3

 

Get to know Pauline:

I grew up in a small village on the outskirts of Bradford.

After leaving school I attended Catering College. This eventually led to me becoming a mobile manager travelling up and down the country. When I was sent to Kendal I met my future husband and settled there.

In 1991 we moved to Shap to a house that some of you may remember being “spooky”… hopefully not now!

During my time here I have taught First Aid for the Red Cross and have moved through Playgroup, Rose Fete, youth club and swimming pool committees as my 2 children grew.  I found that I really enjoyed working with children, and loved the little “Light bulb” moments, attending many training courses and finally doing NVQs in Childcare.

I am now involved with Shap Community Enterprise.

I have a strong Christian faith and am a life long member of the Methodist Church, I now regularly attend and support St. Michaels. I, along with others, ran The Village Sunday School for many years. I am the RE link governor for school, and believe religion provides comfort in times of worry.

I am a fair-weather gardener, but love nurturing seedlings. I enjoy handcrafts (when I get the time) and still enjoy baking.

Talking of seedlings, I think of children who too need caring, nurturing as they grow in strength to be the best they can achieve.

Appointed: September 2017 (currently in second term of office)

Term of Office: 4 years 

Appointed as a Foundation Governor by St Michael's PCC 

No Business or Pecuniary Interests or material interests arising from intra-governor or staff relationships

Pauline is Chair of the Educational Standards Committee and a member of the Resources Committee

Attendance last year: Full Governing Body Meetings: 2/3, Educational Standards Committee Meetings: 3/3, Resources Committee Meetings: 2/3

 

 

Photo to follow

 

 

Mrs Rebecca Redmayne

Get to know Rebecca: 

I have lived in Cumbria all my life, growing up on a farm near Windermere and moving to live with my partner on his farm just outside Shap in 2016. We have two children who attend Shap C of E School and are grateful they are able to have the same kind of education we had attending a rural primary school.

I went to Lancaster University, completing first a BA Criminology and then an MA Social Work, qualifying as a Social Worker in 2009 and then obtaining a PgDip from UCLAN in Practice Learning and becoming a Practice Educator in 2013.

After 10 years working for Lancashire County Council I transferred to work for Cumbria Adult Learning Disability Team in 2019 and now work for Westmorland and Furness Council in the Safeguarding Adults Team.

In my younger years as a member of Cumbria Young Farmers there were many opportunities to spark an interest in a number of crafts (especially dressmaking!), performing arts and also to compete in public speaking and debating competitions. The skills and confidence I gained in these activities have been invaluable to me as an adult and ensuring there are opportunities for all children to discover their ‘talent’ is something that is really important to me.

Along with my experience in Social Work and Safeguarding that I can offer the governing body of Shap C of E School, I hope that I can also provide additional support to the school community with the less academic elements of learning which I feel are as essential for children to experience from an early age to grow to become happy members of their wider community.

Appointed: March 2024

Term of Office: 4 years

Appointed as a Foundation Trust Governor by the Lonsdale Trust 

No Business or Pecuniary Interests or material interests arising from intra-governor or staff relationships

Becky is a member of the Educational Standards Committee

Attendance last year: N/A

 

 

Get to know Becky:

My family and I moved to Shap in December 2017 from south Devon. We moved here to be closer to family and to raise our children in rural community. We love exploring the local area on our bikes and in our kayaks! 

At university I studied neuroscience before training as a physics teacher. I have taught in many secondary schools around the UK and in September 2020 I took up my role of physics teacher at Ullswater Community College in Penrith. I am delighted to be working in a local school and have found UCC to be a most welcoming, friendly environment.  

Within my teaching career I am very interested in promoting good science and maths education in primary and early secondary school age pupils. I work within my department to actively promote the success of disadvantaged pupils. I whole-heartedly believe that education should be fairly accessible by all children, not limited by special need, background or family circumstance.  

Since September 2019 I have been working with Shap parish council to help raise funds for the redevelopment of Shap Memorial Park. I am excited to be part of a community group improving the facilities available here for the youngsters of Shap.  

Our daughter attends Shap C of E primary school and we have been so thankful of the support she received. Thanks to the efforts of the wonderful staff, she has settled well and is thriving. I am delighted to be joining the governing body of this fantastic school.  

Appointed: February 2021

Term of Office: 4 years 

Appointed as the Local Authority Governor by the Local Authority

No Business or Pecuniary Interests or material interests arising from intra-governor or staff relationships

Becky is a member of the Educational Standards Committee

Attendance last year: Full Governing Body Meetings: 3/3, Educational Standards Committee Meetings: 3/3