Governors
Ashdene Primary School Full Governing Body (FGB) is currently constituted of seven members. The FGB operates under the leadership of a chair, vice-chair with the help and support of a clerk.
The FGB meets twice a term, and additionally operates with two committees, each of which meets termly. These are: Learning and Improvement Planning (LIP) and Resources.
Ashdene Primary School governors come from a range of backgrounds: parents, staff, the local authority and the wider community in Wilmslow. We aim to fill our vacancies with people who have a range of relevant skills and most importantly are committed to acting in the best interests of the children and their learning.
An introduction to each of our governors is available to read below.
Co-opted - Chair of Governors - David Felton
I joined the Ashdene Governing Board at the start of 2021 as a co-opted governor. My husband (Mark) and I moved to Wilmslow in 2020 to start our family, and are now about to welcome our first adopted son to our home!
My career started in people management, and progressed to HR. I currently head-up the People function for a global software company; and I'm the director of a HR Consultancy which specialises in organisational design, data-driven transformation, mergers & acquisitions, performance cultures and reward!
During my time with Ashdene I have held the various link roles. I now serve Ashdene as its Chair of Governors, while holding the link roles for Curriculum, Governor Training & Headteacher Performance Management and chairing our Learning Inclusion & Progress committee.
I joined the team because I firmly believe education to be the most valuable and fundamental contributor to our future society. I'm incredibly proud of the school's ambition, achievement and ultra-high standards.
Co-opted - Vice Chair - Claire Lancaster
I have been involved with Ashdene Primary School since 2011 and been a member of the governing board since 2021.
I am married with two children, who both attended Ashdene Primary School and are now students at Wilmslow High School. I am originally from Bramhall, have lived and worked in the USA and London, returning to live in Wilmslow in 2002.
During my decade as a parent at Ashdene I was very involved in the school and the PTA fundraising efforts. I was delighted to be invited to join the governing board and to continue to contribute to this outstanding school.
I work in media marketing, helping brands and businesses of all sizes drive better business performance. I have considerable business, financial, client and people management experience.
In September 2023 I became Vice Chair and continue with my supporting role as the link governor for business and community and attendance.
Co-opted - Tracy Scott
I recently moved back to Wilmslow after a 10-year absence living and working in London, Edinburgh and Glasgow. I am originally from Berkshire but feel most at home here in the North West and it’s just lovely to be back.
My work is programme management delivering large IT and business transformation projects and have also taught business and management and coached swimming. I have strong business and financial skills, project management and people management experience. In addition, I believe in enabling and empowering everyone to achieve their best and in supporting and mentoring where possible. I am well organised and usually retain a good sense of humour regardless of the situation.
I am married with two wonderful grown-up daughters and a very smiley and mischievous little grandson.
It is great to join the Board of Governors at Ashdene. I am hoping to bring my skills to fully support my colleagues and the school in continuing to provide excellent education and pastoral care for all pupils with a particular interest in well-being.
Co-opted - Michael Gorman
I have lived in Wilmslow for over 25 years and three of my children attended Ashdene Primary School. I worked as a Senior Fellow in the university sector and also the printing and media industries before being elected to Cheshire East Council in May 2023. I currently represent the local area, Wilmslow West & Chorley, and am Vice Chair of the Finance Committee. I have been involved, as a trustee, in several charities including Fairbridge in Greater Manchester and the Prince’s Trust. I am currently a Trustee of Irish Community Care Manchester.
I have a particular interest in special educational needs and believe every child should be given the opportunity to flourish and achieve their full potential. I look forward to bringing my educational knowledge and experience as a governor to this outstanding school.
Co-opted - Tim Billington
My background is in healthcare, having worked as a GP for many years. I have a wealth of experience in medical education and appraisal.
I joined the governors board in 2024 and have a particular interest in special educational needs and disabilities. I am really proud to be associated with Ashdene and to contribute to its continuing success as a happy place where children flourish.
Co-opted - Richard Norris
I have spent most of my working life working for an IT Services company. Initially I worked as software engineer in the south of England, before moving to Wilmslow in 1986.
My wife and I have seen our five children enjoy local education at Ashdene Primary School and Wilmslow High School. After taking early retirement, I have spent time volunteering at both Lindow Primary School and Wilmslow High School in the SEN unit.
I joined Ashdene’s Governing Board in April 2024 and in September 2024, I also began helping in Ashdene’s Reception classes. I retain a keen interest in Primary School education and I am delighted to renew my association with Ashdene.
In my spare time I enjoy walking our dog Tess, looking after two of our grandchildren who are under school age and holidaying with my wife. I’m not sure how I ever found time for work!
Headteacher - Collette Mather
I am exceptionally proud to be the headteacher of Ashdene Primary School. I have been a member of staff at Ashdene since 2013. I became the headteacher in 2016. I am passsionate about making sure that all children get the best start in life. I value working with all stakeholders in the drive for continuous improvment.
I also work as a lead inspector for OFSTED and as a school improvment partner, supporting other schools to improve.
I am mum to three boys so this takes up much of my time outside school!
Teacher Governor - Laura O'Brien
I have been part of the Ashdene staff team since 2015 and I am currently one of the Assistant Head Teachers in the Senior Leadership Team. My key responsibilties in school are the Designated Safegaurding Lead (DSL) and the Special Educational Needs and Disbaility (SEND) Co-ordinator. This means I work closely with the governing board to ensure our safeguarding policies and proceedures in place are highly effective in keeping children safe and to assure our SEND provision secures successful outcomes for all pupils. Another part of my role on the board is Staff Governor, which involves acting as a representative for the staff team and provide a staff prospective during meetings.
Parent Governor - Tom Gibson
I joined Ashdene's Governing Board as a parent governor in early 2024. I have two children currently at Ashdene.
I am a barrister specialising in medical negligence law. I am also the manager of a junior team at Alderley Edge Hockey Club. I bring my analytical skills, independence and a parent’s perspective to my role as a parent governor.
Associate Governor - Sam Wardleworth
Bio pending
Parent Governor - Claire Sherry
Bio pending