Our Role

School Governors play an important part in helping our school run effectively. They use their varied experience and knowledge to support the success and continual improvement of the school in three main ways:

1. Planning the school’s strategic direction.
2. Making sure money is well spent by having oversight of the school’s financial performance.
3. Holding the Headteacher and school leadership accountable.

The Governing Board does not get involved in the day-to-day running of the school. We use a model of Governance called the Circle Model, which means that full board meetings are held each half term and all governors take responsibility in all areas. Some governors hold additional responsibilities, such as Safeguarding or SEN.

​​​​​​​Governors are either appointed to the role (Partnership, Co-opted, Local Authority), or elected from within the school community (Parent). You can find more information on the role of School Governors at https://governorsforschools.org.uk/

Parent Governors

Parent Governors play an essential role in the School Governing Body. They bring their skills and expertise to the group in the same way appointed Governors do, as well as their perspective as parents.

If you are interested in becoming a Parent Governor, this document contains lots of useful information.

David Picton

Chair of Governors and Parent Governor

dpicton@wilstead.school

I became a Parent Governor in late 2023 and currently have 2 children in the school. I have lived in Wilstead since 2015, having returned from living in Australia for 8 years, although I grew up just down the road in Shefford. I'm a chartered accountant, currently working for a listed technology company and outside of work enjoy reading crime novels and spending time with the family. I'm excited to be part of a strong Governing Board and look forward to supporting the schools ongoing development.

Caron Brown

Headteacher

head@wilstead.school              

I am the very fortunate Headteacher of this lovely school! I became Head here in April 2020, after spending many years working in Hertfordshire. I started my education career working with children with emotional and behavioural needs and I am a strong advocate for relational and therapeutic approaches to education. I deeply believe that every child matters enormously. I live just 20 minutes away in Biggleswade with my partner Les and our Labrador, Nelson, who is regularly in school with me! I read a lot (much more during holidays!), love visiting European cities, art galleries and coffee shops and have always got time for a chat (especially if there's a coffee on offer too!).             

Nicola Webb

Staff Governor and Deputy Headteacher

nwebb@wilstead.school

I am Nicki, and I joined the school as Deputy Headteacher in 2017. I have taught in Reception, Year 4 and Year 3 during my time at Wilstead.  I grew up in Malvern, Worcestershire, and lived in Cambridge and London before settling in Bedford.  I am passionate about the importance of Early Years education, and in the vital role of play in building strong foundations for our children’s learning.  I am Mummy to two beautiful children, and hugely enjoying the trials and tribulations of new parenthood!

Rebecca May

Parent Governor

rmay@wilstead.school

I am a Parent Governor with two children in the school. Before my children were born, I was a teacher in a local lower school with leadership responsibilities and I love to use my previous experience to support Wilstead Primary. Nowadays, I work as a freelance writer and trainer and voluntarily help to lead Wixams church, where I am responsible for Messy Church and Little Stars toddler group. My favourite pastime is crafting and I am learning to make clothes for my children.

Louise Day

Partnership Governor

lday@wilstead.school

Hi my name is Louise, I have been a Governor at Wilstead since 2016 when my son joined the school. I am Wilstead born and bred, having lived in the village throughout my life, attended the school as a child and therefore have a real sense of our community. I work in Education as Assistant Principal at a local school and have a keen interest in developing children's love of learning, with a particular focus on Special Educational Needs and Safeguarding.  When not working I enjoy quality time with my family, baking, time outdoors and day trips and holidays away.

Lucy Bonforte

Parent Governor

lbonforte@wilstead.school

I joined the Governing Body at Wilstead Primary in 2022, when my daughter joined the school! I am Wilstead born and bred, having lived in the village throughout my life, attended the school as a child and therefore having a real sense of community and wanting to make a difference. I work in education as a Special Needs Co-ordinator and have a passion for ensuring all learners with SEN reach their fullest educational potential. I am super excited to be part of the Governors team and greatly enjoy helping to drive the school's improvement, develop opportunities and the chance to support young people’s futures. When I am not working, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. I also LOVE singing and acting!!  

Jackie Normanton 

Co-Opted Governor

jnormanton@wilstead.school

Hi I am Jackie and have been appointed as a Governor at Wilstead from March 2025.  I am excited to be a part of the board and to work with Caron and the team to see Wilstead go from strength to strength.  I am currently a Head Teacher in Wixams at Lakeview school and have been there for four and a half years.  Previously I have taught in Northampton, Wellingborough and Milton Keynes.  I am originally from Lancashire however Northamptonshire has been my home for the last 25 years.  I am passionate about children’s learning and ensuring that they have the very best opportunities to maximise these both across the curriculum and in life.  I am married with two children (grown up children) and when not involved in education I love to run, go to the cinema and travel.

Governors who have stepped down.