Whitestone Infant School
Governor Profiles
Nicola Green, Headteacher
I began my teaching career working in Cheshire for 4 years before relocating to St Albans. During my 6 years in Hertfordshire I was a member of the leadership team, worked for the Local Authority as a Lead Teacher for Mathematics, was a governor and then became acting deputy headteacher.
I have been a member of the Whitestone staff team since January 2002, joining as Deputy Headteacher, and at this time was an observer at the Governing Body meetings.
Since becoming the Headteacher in September 2010 I have been a member of the Board of Governors.
We are extremely fortunate to have a strong, skilled membership within this board who act as challenging critical friends to the school whilst holding us to account. Our shared aim is to maintain our high standards as an outstanding provider of a broad and balanced education. Whitestone is a lovely place to learn & work.
Mark Hartopp (Chair of Governors, PREVENT Governor, Attendance Governor)
My name is Mark Hartopp. I’m married and have 3 children who have all been educated at Whitestone Infant School. I work as a Sales Manager for a German component manufacturer and have broad business and management experience.
Family life is very rewarding and challenging and gives me an understanding of today’s parental concerns. I believe it is essential as a parent to support our children’s education including the headteacher and staff. Having lived in area all of my life and attended Whitestone, I am very proud of its reputation and OFSTED report. As a governor for many years I have always tried to offer commitment and enthusiasm to ensure that this continues.
Simon Shaw (Vice Chair of Governors, Inclusion Governor, PE & Maths Link Governor)
In February 2016 I became a member of the governing body at Whitestone Infant School fulfilling a role of Parent governor. Already in such a short space of time I have found the role extremely interesting and through visits to the school and governor meetings, have become full appreciative of the extensive job that both the head teacher and the teaching staff are doing.
I am married with three children and my family and I have lived in the Whitestone catchment area for the past nine years. My youngest son presently attends Whitestone School. My back ground is in education and I have worked as a secondary school teacher in the local area for the last 16 years. In education I have worked in a number of different roles both pastorally and subject specific. For the last 4 years I have been subject leader for Physical Education.
In the role of a middle leader in secondary school I am fully aware of the ever changing educational landscape and have always been interested in maximising the potential of primary education. Whitestone Infant school is a part of my local community and I am grateful for the opportunity to help and support the school and to be part of what is an exciting future.
Dean Robinson (Co-Opted Governor, SEND Governor)
I am married with two young boys, one of whom is at Whitestone and the other has just moved up to Chetwynd Junior School. I have lived in Whitestone for over 10 years and feel that it is great place to bring up our children.
I have been working in manufacturing for over 20 years and I am currently employed in a Global compliance role for a large medical device manufacturer. I have built up a good skill set over my professional career which I plan to use to support the school to maintain its high standards. Over the past three years I have built good relationships with the staff which I look forward to developing further. I feel very privileged to be able to join the governor team and plan to support the school in delivering the very best educational experience we can offer.
Paul Stokes (Co-opted Governor: Health, Safety & Premises Governor, Mental Health Governor)
I'm Paul and have been a Co-opted Governor at Whitestone School for the last 9 years. I have lived in Whitestone for 13 years now and have had 2 children who have been through the school and loved their time here, part of the reason I wanted to get involved.
I am currently the Governor who covers Health & Safety, including Premises, along with the relatively new Mental Health Governor role. My background is in Construction which helps with these roles. I'm also a Volunteer and Ambassador at Coventry & Warwickshire Mind in my spare time.
Whilst away from my role I run a lot and follow Coventry City home and Away or play taxi to two demanding teenagers!
Sally Farmer (Co-opted Governor, Safeguarding Governor, On-line Safeguarding Governor, Safer Recruitment Governor)
I am a parent governor at Whitestone Infant School. I am proud to be part of a strong and skilled governing body who support the school to deliver high quality education and experiences to its pupils.
I have 15 years experience in education, working in both teaching and leadership roles. I have a good understanding of the challenges schools face in current times and the need for a strong partnership between the school, parents and the wider community.
Mr Danny McGee (Parent Governor)
I am married with two beautiful daughters, one of whom has just started her academic journey and is already benefiting from the school’s offerings. Professionally, I work locally as a Technology Director at a leading Research and Development Technology Centre. With over 15 years of experience leading multidisciplinary teams across various sectors and technologies, I am excited to help shape the future of Whitestone Infant School as a new parent governor (2024).
I believe in fostering strong relationships between the school and its community. And believe my experiences will positively contribute to the board’s efforts in supporting the school’s goals, development, and financial needs. Committed to promoting innovation and continuous improvement, I aim to bring the same dedication to the governing board. I understand the importance of providing a safe, stimulating, and inclusive environment for children to thrive.
Deeply committed to diversity and inclusion, I mentor both young adults and seasoned professionals in academic and professional contexts. I am also an active advocate for STEM learning. I look forward to ensuring every child at Whitestone Infant School has the opportunity to succeed whilst having fun.
Outside of work, I enjoy running, swimming, and cycling, and I am currently training for upcoming events. I also enjoy playing golf when I have the time.
Mrs Catherne Winton (Local Authority Governor, Safer Recruitment Governor, RHE/PSHE Link Governor )
I spent over 20 years working in schools, first as a teacher and then in leadership roles focusing on pastoral care and safeguarding systems. I now work across Warwickshire, helping schools deliver PSHE education, giving young people the knowledge and skills they need to grow up healthy and confident. I’m really pleased to be part of the Whitestone School community and look forward to supporting staff, pupils, and families.
Mrs Lora Scott (Parent Governor)
I live locally, and all my children have attended Whitestone Infant School, so I have seen the positive impact the school has on its pupils and community. I have many years experience in further and higher education teaching Human Resources and Business, and have held roles in quality improvement and curriculum leadership. At home I enjoy reading classic literature and playing music. I have a strong interest in positive learning environments, and joined the governing board to contribute my expertise and support the school’s continuous improvement. As a parent, I value Whitestone Infant School’s nurturing ethos that gives children a positive start to their education.
Levi Keane (Co-Opted Governor)
I’m a mum to two wonderful children — one who is nearly 5 and currently at Whitestone Infant School, and a lively 1-year-old who keeps me on my toes! I’ve worked full-time in banking for the past 12 years, gaining experience across a variety of roles within the industry. Through my career, I’ve developed strong skills in budgeting, income management, and project management, which I hope will be valuable in my role as a parent governor.
Outside of work, I love spending time with my family. I am married and as a family we enjoy days out together, getting some fresh air with the kids, or catching up with friends, making memories is really important to us, family life plays a big part in who I am.
I’m excited to be part of the governing body and hope to contribute positively to the school community, supporting both children and staff to continue making Whitestone a nurturing and inspiring place to learn and grow.