Governor Introductions

Introducing the school governors

It may seem that the school Governing Body is a mysterious group who live in the shadows. The reality is that we are mixed group of people from different backgrounds who share one common interest, ensuring that the school is being managed in a manner that ensures the best learning environment for our students.

As you’ll see from the brief biographies below, we are a mix of parents and ex-parents of Calthorpe Park students and so all have a vested interest in ensuring that we deliver the best experience for our children.

Ian Ballentine

I retired in 2022 where I previously held various industry roles such as heading up a global advisory business in setting up and transforming major construction programmes, as well as being on various boards such as Heathrow Airport and Network Rail capital programmes. I hope I can use my industry experience to help Calthorpe Park school continue to achieve its ongoing success as a great school.

David Beven

David is a dedicated Houseparent and valued member of the safeguarding team at Lord Wandsworth College. With over 15 years’ experience in education and a strong background in Sports and Exercise Science, he brings energy, empathy, and expertise to his pastoral role. A specialist in safeguarding and student welfare, David is committed to creating a safe, supportive environment where pupils can thrive academically, socially, and personally while developing resilience and character.

Angus Chapman

Angus is a Chartered Mechanical Engineer and has lived in Fleet since 1997 having relocated his family from Scotland to continue his career in the oil, gas and petrochemical sector. Since retired, he joined the Governing Board in December 2019 and is enjoying the new challenges set in this new role. He hopes he can contribute to the ongoing success of Calthorpe Park School.

Anna Dawson

I have lived in Fleet for the past 20 plus years  and both my teenage grandchildren having attended Calthorpe Park . I retired as a Headteacher in 2020 and have also spent time as Chair of Governors  at  a Farnborough Secondary  school . I am particularly interested in Special Educational Needs provision and the development of Sport/PE for all youngsters in the school . I believe in promoting local schools for local children and providing the highest  levels of education for all children.

Chris Eaton

Chris has lived in Fleet for 10 years and has a daughter in year 7. He has a long career in IT, holding senior positions in several household brand companies. He hopes his experience and knowledge can contribute to the ongoing success of Calthorpe.

Sue Francis

Having retired recently from a long career as a secondary school teacher, I wanted to maintain my links with the state education system.  I was therefore delighted when the opportunity arose to become a governor at CPS where my son (now a teacher himself) was a pupil some years ago.  I am enjoying seeing how the school is growing and developing and am pleased to be able to contribute in some way to this process.

Kevan John

Kevan is now in his fifth year as Headteacher at Calthorpe Park School. With 33 years in education, he has taught in seven schools across a variety of settings. As Headteacher, he brings over 20 years of leadership experience spanning all major areas of school management. Kevan considers it a privilege to lead Calthorpe Park School.  He is committed to inspiring minds, shaping characters, and nurturing futures, ensuring every student has the opportunity to achieve their full potential.

Jeff Kelsey

Jeff is currently our longest serving governor, now in his 15th year at the school, and has no intention of stopping yet.  Prior to moving to Fleet, he spent 5 years as a governor at a primary school in Yorkshire.  Jeff has his own consultancy business providing support to the chemical industry on product health and environmental safety and regulatory toxicology although he is now winding this down towards retirement.. 

Jeff has previously served as chair and vice chair of the governing body.

Simon Rees

Simon is a senior lecturer at the University of Winchester, specialising in Teacher Education and Education Leadership.  Simon is a qualified teacher, having graduated from the University of Surrey in 2004.  He has taught in junior and primary schools in Hampshire

Mark Russell

Mark moved to Fleet in 2019 and is Chief Executive of The Children’s Society, one of the UK’s largest children’s charities.  He is deeply committed to helping children thrive, and moved to Fleet from Sheffield, where he was a Governor of a Special Needs School.   Originally from Northern Ireland, Mark’s background is in front line youth work. He tweets @markrusselluk

Bev Wayman

With over 10 years of teaching experience at Calthorpe Park School, I specialise in Religious Education, Philosophy, and Ethics, and serve as the Careers Leader. Before entering education 20 years ago, I had a successful career in sales at IBM and Yellow Pages. As the staff school governor, I recognise the importance of this role and am committed to improving outcomes for all young people. My absolute passion is to ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed and thrive.

Ruth Wilcox

Ruth has been a committed member of the Governing Body since 2019, initially joining as a Parent Governor and now serving as a co-opted governor in her second term. She has gathered extensive experience along the way, having previously served as Vice-Chair of the Governing Board, and now continuing to help lead the strategic work of the board in several key areas.

Professionally, Ruth is a scientist and former engineering teacher. This unique background allows her to provide robust strategic oversight, combining an understanding of effective teaching practice with a strong ability to gather, process, and critically analyse data. She applies this insight in her roles as  Vice-Chair of both the Curriculum & Outcomes, and Pastoral Development committees, and as the Training and Development Governor (overseeing the board's continuous professional development). Ruth is dedicated to making sure that Calthorpe Park school is successful and that all groups of students achieve their full potential.

Autumn 2025

 


GO TO TOP