Jenny is a retired education professional who has worked in education for over 40 years. Initially a teacher in all phases of education and across mainstream and special settings Jenny became a school improvement advisor and trained as an Ofsted inspector. Working to support young people with Special Educational Needs and their families has always been a priority. Since retiring from full time work she has stayed connected to schools and is a governor and trustee in a number of settings

John has been a governor at Durants school for about 28 years, which seems like a career for him now. He has also been the Vice-Chair for most of this time, and occasionally chaired the governing body meetings. He is attached to both of our sub committees for 'School Improvement' and 'Finance & Premises', chairing the latter for a few years now. He is keen on keeping up with any relevant training required and regularly attend network meetings with many other schools' governors. We've had some really good positives, with increased provision for SEN and better funding.

^{“My time at Durants has always been an important part of my life”}

Alison decided to become a school governor when she retired in 2016. Having worked in CAMHS & EPS, she was keen to continue her involvement with supporting young people, particularly those who faced constant challenges. Alison met with Sylvia, who was then Chair of Governors.

^{“She convinced me that Durants was the school for me. She was right! Durants is a wonderful school with incredibly committed and caring staff. I have been privileged to be a Governor during the development of the Southgate site and the creation of the excellent facilities the school now has. I look forward to, and am proud to be a part of, the exciting future for the school.”}

Having served as a Deputy Head teacher and worked extensively in the SEN Field Alicia has a wealth of knowledge and understanding to give to this role.  Alicia’s grandson attended Durants and has enjoyed the many opportunities provided by the school and has benefited from the care and expertise of committed and high quality staff.  Having served for many years as a governor at Durants on various committees, Alicia has the interest of Durnats very much at heart and would like to be involved in the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead, in whatever ways are helpful to the school community.

My name is Sangeeta Lakhani and I have had the honour and privilege of working at Durants for the last 20 years as a member of the teaching staff. Already working in the school I have first-hand experience of the education system and knowledge of teaching and learning, and committed to ensuring every child receives the very best education. I am in a unique position on our governing body, the role of staff governor offers me an opportunity to make a real contribution to the strategic management of the school, providing an interesting and rewarding dimension to work.

As a member of the governing body, I am passionate about ensuring that the provision and education of each and every child is the best it can possibly be, working hard to ensure that we achieve high standards of educational achievement allowing every child to reach their full potential whilst at Durants.

The school and council continues to provide me with the opportunity to attend a wide range of training courses which supports my understanding of what is expected of me in my role as governor, and what polices the school must adhere to, to run effectively. This also ensures I follow the appropriate rules of governor protocol and confidentiality.

For me, it has always been important that school is more than just a place of learning. It’s a community we can all be part of, support and friendship are key and exemplified at Durants school.

I became a Parent Governor 3 years ago so that I could take an active roll within the school and to represent other parents. This was my first governor role, but the other governors were very supportive and I have been very impressed by their dedication and commitment to their roles.

After being a governor for 2 years, I decided to become a full-time member of staff, which I absolutely love! Its an absolute pleasure to be both a parent and staff member.

My name is Lily and I have worked in education for over 30 years. I had my own nursery and holiday scheme in Edmonton and supported many children with additional needs and their families in my settings. Working as a childcare lecturer in college, I see first-hand the importance of enabling young people to access suitable courses that will useful to them for employment and to prepare them for independent living. Durants School provides the children the ideal environment to achieve their aspirations and transition into adulthood. I am keen to support Durants School meet their aims to provide the best care and education for the children and families and to develop myself also as School Governor to equip myself with skills to do this. 

Ronke is a building and construction professional. She has worked in construction and the local authority housing sector for over twenty years. Initially as a building/quantity surveyor dealing with building repairs and maintenance. She now manages large scale residential and mixed use development projects.

Ronke has also volunteered in different capacities in a church supporting and mentoring young people in the area of their careers and general life issues. She is keen to continue her involvement with supporting young people as a governor.

This is her first governor role, and she believes that with the support of the other governors and the available trainings she will equip herself with skills to carry out her duties as a governor.

She is keen to support Durants School in meeting their aims to provide the best care and education for the children and young adults.

My name is Candice Clarke. I am lucky enough to be mum to two incredible young men on the spectrum, one of which has the pleasure of being a student at Durants school.

Although I am a fairly new parent to the school, I cannot put into words how grateful I am for all they have done for my son in that time. When I was given this opportunity to give back in a way that will
make a difference to future students and teachers it seemed too good to pass up. I am looking forward to being part of the board, being a voice of parents just like me, and helping support students like my son that have made remarkable progress thanks to the time and patience they are
given.