Alastair Slater (Parent Governor)

I volunteered as a Parent Governor to try and do my bit to help ensure the school continues to offer a wonderful experience and education for the children. It’s been interesting and enjoyable getting involved and I was delighted when the OFSTED Outstanding rating was announced in March 2015.  I work as a Client Account Director for a large IT Services company, and my interests include playing Guitar and following the ups and downs of the England Cricket Team.

When our daughter was given a place at Wood Street after not getting places at *any* of the schools we picked we were really disappointed - this disappointment was short lived after she started at Wood Street and despite getting offered a place at our first choice school 4 weeks into term we turned it down. We've been so impressed with the school, the staff and the opportunities it provides - much of which are down to it's small size.  Given the fantastic start to her education that Wood Street provided I wanted to give back to the school and help by getting involved as a Governor and was more than happy to do so when it was suggested I'd be a useful addition to the governing body.

Charlotte Willoughby (Staff Governor) 

I joined the staff at Wood Street School just over 7 years ago as a class teacher and instantly knew I had found the right place for me.  Wood Street is a nurturing, family environment where everyone is encouraged to reach their full potential.  Working at Wood Street has allowed me to be creative, inquisitive and explore my potential as a teacher.  I joined the governing body in order to give back to the school and share my knowledge and experience to aid in the schools development.  

Dave Cook (Parent Governor & Co-Vice Chair)

Wood Street was the first choice for our daughter in 2017. We saw a friendly, open and well run school. We have never looked back since and the school has exceeded our expectations on all counts.

I wanted the opportunity to give something back to the running of the school. I was lucky that an opening on the governing body became available and in 2018 and I was elected as a parent governor.  I now get to work with an amazing group of people who all contribute to the same goal. Ensuring Wood Street is the best it can be and continues to provide all the children with excellent opportunities.

A little bit about me. I love technology, gadgets and the like. I have worked in I.T for the past 20 years. My current role is as I.T manager for a company in Farnborough. I live with my wonderful partner and daughter just outside Wood Street Village. Watching my daughter learn and grow has been amazing. The school provides all of the children with amazing opportunities, Woodland school, WOW days or one of the many school trips to name a few. I get to see the excitement on my daughters face when she tells me all about them, and is one of the many reasons why I volunteered my time to support the school.

Victoria Fear (Parent Governor & Co-Vice Chair)

I have lived in the Guildford area for over 10 years, except for a short stint living overseas. We moved into the village in 2014 and were delighted to secure a place at Wood Street Infants, our first choice school for our eldest child. We have been so pleased with her progress, both academically and personally, that our second child has followed in her footsteps!

I became a governor as I like to take an active interest in village life and to help something already great, keep improving and evolving. I strongly believe that every child should have access to the high quality education than my children are fortunate to be receiving. As you might have gathered, I really enjoy getting involved in local affairs as I work as an Assistant Clerk at Worplesdon Parish Council!

Melanie Gordon (Co-opted Governor)

I am in my first year of teaching at Wood Street Infant School. I was inspired to become a teacher having spent two years at our lovely school as a student whilst undertaking my degree in Early Childhood Studies. I then went on to complete my Scitt ( teacher training ) salaried at a larger Guildford school. I was thrilled when a post became available and I’m so proud to work in a school I love.

I have become a Governor to understand what goes on behind the scenes and support in my role as a teacher. I am a mother and a wife and I spend my weekends on the Isle of Wight. I am a patron of a local charity CWSNF which supports children with special needs.

Ewan Henniker-Smith (Co-opted Governor)

I grew up locally then, having lived in London since graduating, I moved back to the area in 2015. I am Head of Resourcing and Talent at AQA Education in Guildford and I’m passionate about helping people make the most of themselves and realise their potential. Education is a really important part of that journey and Wood Street offers a great start to those lucky enough to commence their education with us.
Being a governor here gives me a great opportunity to use my skills and knowledge to help Wood Street continue to go from strength to strength and gives me an invaluable insight and learning too. I look forward to the future with Wood Street and working with a great group of volunteers who all want the best for the school and our pupils.

Mark Covington (Co-opted Governor)

I have lived in Worplesdon, Guildford since 1986. Moving into Wood Street Village in late 2019.

We visited many good schools when looking for our daughter's first school. Having attended Wood Street Nursery we felt Wood Street Infants was really well aligned in terms of values, size and teaching approach. Having completed her first term in 2019 I can honestly say I was delighted with my daughters early experiences, evident learning and growth as an individual. I was honoured when asked to join the Board and look forward to continuing the great work of fellow Governor's and working with the great team at the school.
I founded a Sponsorship and Events Agency in 2012 which I run with my wife, Nikki. When not working I can be found on the sidelines at rugby games, walking our dogs as a family or attempting to do my daughters hair for dance shows!