Please find below a list of our School Governors and some information about them. 

If you would like to speak to one of our governors please contact Mrs Angela Crawford in the office on 0161 962 1828 to arrange an appointment.

Cllr Sue Maitland - Joint Chair of Governors & Local Authority Governor

Term of office 10.10.22 - 09.10.26

Committees:-

• School Effectiveness Committee
• Safeguarding, Behaviour and Attendance Committee

Link Governor:-

• GDPR & E Safety Link Governor (Filtering & Monitoring)

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:-

• Nothing to declare

Governor Statement:-

I have worked with children and young people my whole working life, throughout which I have been focused on supporting children and families to reach their full potential. Whilst in the position of district head of centre for Manchester Sure Start Children's Centres I became a community governor at Wilbraham Primary school in a bid to assist the school in delivering the best provision for the children and their families in Fallowfield.

Since retiring, in addition to becoming an elected member of Trafford Council, I have taken on many voluntary roles within the community such as developing and delivering a stay and play facility for children and families under five years of age, assisting at the Stretford foodbank and being a Cyril Flint befriender, (that is being a friend and support to an elderly disabled person in local community).

I have a keen interest in early years education, and I am always eager to explore new, innovative and exciting ways to improve the learning outcomes of young children.

I will offer dedication and support to the children, families and staff of WINS , as looking

Mrs Donna Lamey -Joint Chair of Governors

Term of office - 01.12.24 to 01.12. 28

Committees:

• Finance, Health and Safety and Building Committee 
• School Effectiveness Committee

Link Governor:

• Not yet assigned

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:

I am employed by Bright Futures and one of the roles I hold is the Head of the Bright Futures North West Early Years Stronger Practice Hub. Wellfield Infant and Nursery School is a named partner for this DFE funded Hub.

Governor Statement:

I am a passionate teacher, researcher and educator and have around 25 years experience of working in early years and primary settings. My previous roles consist of teaching, working in children’s centres and local authority EYFS advisory roles. I have also worked as an Early Years Subject Leader of Education (SLE) for four years, providing support for various early years settings, including completing school reviews to promote better outcomes for children. I am passionate about creating strong foundations in early learning.

I currently work in initial teacher training and lead the training and development of early years teachers. I also support the quality assurance of Early Career Teachers (ECTs). I am passionate about staff development and how this impacts on children’s outcomes. In addition to these roles, I am also the assistant head of the Bright Futures Northwest Stronger Practice Hub, providing support, advice and guidance to a wide range of early years practitioners across the north-west area.

I have had the pleasure to work in partnership with WINS for the past four years and I really value their inspirational approaches to teaching and learning.  I am really looking forward to working with the school more to contribute to the governance of this wonderful setting.

Mr David Moodie : Vice Chair of Governors

Term of office: 10.10.22 to 9.10.26

• Pupils, Parents and Community Committee
• Finance, Health and Safety and Building Committee 

Link Governor:

• Not yet assigned

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:-

• Nothing to declare

Governor Statement:

I began my journey with WINS in 2018, initially as a parent governor while my two children attended Wellfield and have since transitioned to a co opted governor as they moved to the Junior school.

My role is centred on practical governance, leveraging my first hand experience as a parent within the school. My objective is to constructively contribute to the school's strategy and operations, emphasising pragmatic and effective educational outcomes. Additionally, my professional background in business consultancy informs my approach, bringing a unique perspective to the governing body.

Ms Clare Gosling -Chair of Finance, Health and Safety and Building Committee 

Term of office - 29/09/2024 to 30/09/2028

Committees:

• Finance, Health and Safety and Building Committee 

Link Governor:

• Not yet assigned

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:-

• Nothing to declare

Governor Statement:

I joined the Governing Body in 2016. After graduating university I qualified as an accountant in Manchester. Since then I've worked for a number of banks and insurance companies as part of their finance teams.
 I am now the chief finance officer of Unity Trust Bank - a bank as committed to our social impact as we are to our bottom line.
 Both my children have attended Wellfield infants. I chose to become a governor to say thank you for the outstanding experience they have had.

Mrs Joanne Thirkill: Headteacher

Term of office - 01.09.25 ongoing

Committees:

As the Headteacher of the school I sit on all committees.

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:

• Headteacher at WINS
• Governor at Wellacre Academy

Governor Statement:

I am delighted to be the Headteacher of Wellfield Infant and Nursery School and to serve as part of the Governing Board. I joined Wellfield in September 2025, bringing with me over 21 years of teaching and leadership experience across three very different schools. Throughout my career, I have been driven by a deep belief that every child is unique, full of potential, and deserving of a nurturing environment in which to thrive—academically, socially, and emotionally.

In my role as Headteacher, I am committed to ensuring that our school continues to provide the highest standards of education and care, underpinned by a strong ethos of kindness, curiosity, and high expectations. I believe that the early years and infant phase lay the foundations for a lifelong love of learning, and it is both a privilege and a responsibility to lead a team so dedicated to giving children the very best possible start.

My approach to leadership is rooted in relationships—working in partnership with staff, governors, families, and the wider community to ensure that our school remains a place where children feel valued, inspired, and supported. I spend as much time as possible in classrooms, engaging with staff and pupils, so that I have a clear understanding of the quality of teaching and learning and the experiences that shape each child’s development.

In addition to my professional role, I am also proud to be a Wellfield parent, as my own son recently joined our school Nursery. Experiencing school life from both perspectives has provided me with a unique insight into the journey our families make with us and reinforces my commitment to ensuring every child—and every parent—feels welcomed, supported, and part of our community.

As a member of the Governing Board, I work closely with governors to ensure they are fully informed about the school’s work, priorities, and outcomes. The governors play a vital role in supporting and challenging the school’s strategic direction, and I value the open, reflective partnership we share in striving for excellence in all that we do.

Mrs Kate Douglas: Deputy Headteacher (Acting)

Term of office - 01.09.25 ongoing

Committees:

As the Deputy Headteacher of the school I sit on all committees.

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:

• Deputy Headteacher at WINS

I am proud to serve as Deputy Headteacher at Wellfield Infant and Nursery School, where I have been a long-standing member of the staff team. During my time at WINS, I have developed a deep understanding of our school community and a strong commitment to ensuring that every child feels valued, supported, and inspired to achieve their very best.

As a highly effective Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) leader and practitioner, I am passionate about creating environments that nurture curiosity, independence, and a lifelong love of learning. My approach is firmly child-centred—placing the needs, interests, and well-being of our pupils at the heart of everything I do.

In addition to my professional role, I am also a proud mum to two beautiful daughters, which gives me an even greater appreciation of the importance of trust, communication, and partnership between home and school. This dual perspective—as both an educator and a parent—continues to shape my practice and strengthen my belief in the power of early education to transform lives.

Mrs Sharon Alderson: Co opted Governor

Term of office - 3.10.21 to 2.10.25 extended until 2.10.26

Committees:

• School Effectiveness Committee
• Finance, Health and Safety and Building Committee

Link Governor:

• Inclusion & SEND Link Governor

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:

• Member of staff at WINS

Governor Statement:

I am a co-opted governor at WINS and now a member of staff.

Being a parent, I experienced first hand the nurturing and caring nature of this wonderful school. I became a governor to help support the local community and my local school. WINS provides an outstanding education for our children and fosters strong relationships with children and their parents; as a governor I wish to continue to support the school maintain these relationships. Having previously worked as a scientist I have experience in data analysis and support the school governors in interpreting school performance data.

Mrs Tracy London - Co opted Governor

Term of office - 17.11.22 to 16.11.26

Committees:-

• Pupils, Parents and Community Committee
• Safeguarding, Behaviour and Attendance Committee
• School Effectiveness Committee

Link Governor:-

• Safeguarding Link Governor

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:-

• Nothing to declare

Governor Statement:-

I have been a Governor at Wellfield Infant and Nursery School since 2010, having developed an interest in supporting the school’s work when my daughter started as a pupil here. My daughter is now in higher education, I remained part of the governing body at WINS where I continue to support the head and staff to lay the best foundations in our children's education. Having previously worked as a police officer in the child protection multi agency referral and assessment unit I had the skillset to be the link governor for safeguarding at the school. As a result of my previous role and other various other voluntary roles I have awareness of the challenges that families can face. Schools now provide more than just education; they have become community hubs, whilst keeping the children at the heart of our school community together with supporting our families in all aspects of parenting. We strive to give our children a safe nurturing environment to flourish. This is why I continue to support WINS.

Karen Evans: Staff Governor

Term of Office 04/12/2024 to 03/12/28

Committees:

• Parents and Community Committee
• School Effectiveness Committee

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:

• Member of staff at WINS

Governor Statement:-

Since arriving at WINS as a Higher Level Teaching Assistant several years ago, my passion for making a difference to the children's attainment, safety and most of all enjoyment has been at the forefront of everything I do. In addition to this I am a committed member of the staff team and devote my time and energy into the role of staff governor and am always striving for the best possible outcome for our children, our staff and our outstanding school.

Being part of the governing team and contributing to the school's vision with the aim of continuously improving the quality of education and to raise standards for all our children is what it means for me in my governing roles.

Keiron Faulkner: Co-opted Governor

Term of office 30.09.25-29.09.29

Committees:

• Finance, Health and Safety and Building Committee

Link Governor:

• Not yet assigned

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:

• None

Governor Statement:

I am delighted to be joining the Governing Body at WINS. I’m currently Head of Operations at a large live music and events venue, responsible for health and safety as well as leading development projects. I am also a parent, with my son now in Reception at the school, so I have a personal interest in helping the school continue to thrive. Education has always been close to my heart, particularly as my late wife was a primary school assistant headteacher in Salford. I look forward to working with staff, parents and fellow governors to support the children and the wider school community.

Natalie Walker-Clarke: Co-opted Governor 

Term of office 30.09.25-29.09.29

Committees:

• Finance, Health and Safety and Building Committee

Link Governor:

• Not yet assigned

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:

• None

Governor Statement:

Professionally, I’m an Accounts and Finance Manager, currently working for a vehicle rental

company in Stockport. Over the last 15 years, I’ve worked across a variety of industries including childcare, which has given me a broad perspective, and a strong understanding of how different organisations operate. As a parent of four children who have all attended this wonderful school—one of whom is currently still here—I’ve seen first-hand the positive impact it has on young children and their families. I’m proud to be part of a school that provides such a strong foundation in early education, and I’m passionate about supporting it in any way I can. My experience as a parent at Wellfield has been a truly positive one, and I bring that, along with a practical, down-to-earth approach, to my role as a governor.

Lisa Francis - Co-opted Governor (Term of office 30.09.25-29.09.29)

Term of office 30.09.25-29.09.29

Committees:

• School Effectiveness Committee
• Pupils, Parents and Community Committee

Link Governor:

• Not yet assigned

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:

• None

Governor Statement:

I am new to Cheshire having moved from Sussex/Kent a year ago to be closer to my grandchildren, who currently attend Wellfield Nursery and Infant School. I do weekly school runs and have attended many school events in the last year. I have been amazed at the effort and dedication to achieve such great events. Hence my decision to become an opted School Governor.

I have 41 years experience working in Local Authorities, starting my career as a residential social worker and housemother for Kent County Council and then ILEA (Inner London Ed Authority), working primarily in Children’s centres and boarding schools for SEND children.

I joined Kent Police as a civilian and in those 22 years, had experience as a Senior Secretary, and a qualified HR Manager.  I fell into IT learning the new HR/Payroll ERP system (SAP) and was asked if I would remain in IT.  I then joined East Sussex County Council 17 years ago as the SAP Security and Audit Officer.  From there I have had several promotions including IT Service Desk Manager and currently as Oracle & Applications Support Manager, managing a large team supporting the Councils critical systems, such as Liquidlogic and Oracle.

I am currently able to enjoy remote working and attending Sussex on an as needs basis.

I am looking forward to playing a crucial role in shaping the direction of WINS, to impact the educational outcomes and opportunities for pupils, parents/carers and the wider community.

Nicola Foster: Parent Governor 

Term of office 25.10.25 - 25.10.29

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:

• Co-opted Governor at Ringway Primary School, Wythenshawe

Committees:

• School Effectiveness Committee
• Pupils, Parents and Community Committee

Link Governor:

• Not yet assigned

Governor Statement:

I became a governor at WINS to help give every child the best possible start in life. As a parent with one child at WINS and another starting nursery soon, I see every day the care and effort that make the school a happy, nurturing environment. That inspired me to get involved and support the fantastic work being done.

My professional experience in HR and wellbeing means I’m passionate about creating positive spaces where children feel safe, valued, and excited to learn. Wellfield is more than a school: it’s a community that helps children grow in confidence and curiosity, and I’m proud to play a part in that journey. I’m excited to work with staff and families to ensure WINS remains a place where every child can thrive.

Natalie Douglas: Parent Governor 

Term of office 25.10.25 - 25.10.29

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:

• Co-opted Governor at Ringway Primary School, Wythenshawe

Committees:

• School Effectiveness Committee
• Pupils, Parents and Community Committee

Link Governor:

• Not yet assigned

Governor Statement: I have a vested interest in being a WINS Governor as I am a current parent and will also have a son joining the school nursery in 2026. This will give the governing body a useful perspective and highlight the importance of home-school collaboration. I am looking forward to working with the new Head to raise the profile of WINS within our local community to ensure that it is prospective parents’ number one choice. My daughter has had an excellent experience at WINS and so I would like to champion the school’s play- based curriculum and fabulous extra-curricular opportunities, which continues to provide an inclusive and nurturing environment for our children.

I have a passion for education and moulding the next generation, which is why I have held

the roles of Head of History and Teacher of History for the last 16 years, having

experienced teaching in 4 different Greater Manchester secondary schools. In my role I

also work closely with feeder primary schools to ensure a smooth transition from primary

to secondary education. These roles enable me to understand the importance of

inclusivity, excellent practice and presence within the local community. I hope to support

the school, Head and Governors with my experience.

The following governors are no longer in office:

Dr Nicky Martins - Joint Chair of Governors
Term of office - 23/02/2024 to 22/02/2028

Committees:-

• School Effectiveness Committee
• Pay Committee
• Finance, Health and Safety and Building Committee
• Headteacher's Performance Management Committee

Link Governor:-

• Teaching and Learning Link Governor

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:-

• Nothing to declare

Ms Cathy Graham - Headteacher
Term of office - 1.9.11-31.08.25

Committees:-

As the Headteacher of the school I sit on all committees.

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:-

• Headteacher at WINS

Mrs Rose Fairclough - Deputy Headteacher & Co opted Governor
Term of office - 10.10.22 to 9.10.26

Committees:-

• School Effectiveness Committee
• Finance, Health & Safety and Buildings Committee
• Safeguarding, Behaviour and Attendance Committee

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:-

• Deputy Headteacher at WINS

Dr Shaun Thompson - Co opted Governor

Term of office - 13/05/2024 to 15/ 10/ 2024

Committee:-

• School Effectiveness

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:-

• Nothing to declare

Mrs Lynne Farnell - Vice Chair of Governors

Term of office 22.3.21 to 18.3.24

Committees:-

• Parents and Community Committee
• Finance, Health and Safety and Buildings Committee
• Headteacher's Performance Management Committee

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:-

• Nothing to declare 

Ms Pam Carraher - Parent Governor

Term of office - 1.2.21 to 25.6.24

Committees:- 

• Pupils, Parents and Community Committee
• Pay Committee

Statement of relevant business and financial interest to WINS:-

• Nothing to declare

Financial Salary Declaration

Schools are required to publish on their websites salary information if staff have a salary of above £100,000, in order to improve financial transparency.

At Wellfield Infant and Nursery School there are no staff with a salary of above £100,000.

The link to the schools financial benchmarking service on the government website can be found here:-

https://schools-financial-benchmarking.service.gov.uk/School?urn=106313

Please find below useful links about the role of a school governor and how to apply to be a school governor