Governors
At Ashdene Primary School, our Full Governing Body (FGB) plays a vital role in shaping the strategic direction of the school and supporting our shared vision for every child to thrive.
Our Governing Body is made up of ten dedicated members, representing a wide range of experience and perspectives from across our school community — including parents, staff, the local authority, and the wider Wilmslow community. Together, we work in partnership with the Headteacher and school leadership team to ensure the very best outcomes for our pupils.
The Governing Body is led by a Chair and Vice-Chair, and supported by a Clerk who ensures our work runs smoothly and in line with statutory responsibilities. The FGB meets once each term, and also operates through a committee, which meet termly:
- Learning and Improvement Planning (LIP) – focusing on the quality of education and pupil achievement for all pupils
We aim to appoint governors who bring a broad range of skills and experience, but above all, who share a commitment to acting in the best interests of Ashdene’s children and their learning.
You can learn more about each of our governors and their roles below.
Co-opted - Chair of Governors - David Felton
I joined the Ashdene Governing Board in early 2021 as a co-opted governor and have had the privilege of serving as Chair of Governors since 2023. My husband and I made Wilmslow our home in 2020 and welcomed our first child in 2024.
Becoming a governor was one of the ways I hoped to connect with the local community, but I could never have anticipated discovering a school that excels in every respect. The dedication and impact of Ashdene are truly exceptional, and the strong foundation it provides for our children makes me both proud and deeply grateful to contribute to its leadership.
As Chair, my role is to lead the governing board, ensuring it offers constructive challenge, holds school leaders to account, and operates with professionalism and strategic focus.
I've spent more than a decade in HR, and now head-up a global HR function. In addition, I serve as a Mentor and Employability Panel Member for MMU, and a Director for a Manchester-based charity that promotes integration and creates opportunities for individuals from underrepresented groups in society.
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.
Headteacher - Collette Mather
I am exceptionally proud to be the Headteacher of Ashdene Primary School. Having joined the staff team in 2013, I became Headteacher in 2016, and it has been a privilege to lead such a vibrant, caring and ambitious school community.
I am passionate about ensuring that every child receives the very best start in life, and that Ashdene provides an environment where all pupils can flourish both academically and personally. Working collaboratively with staff, governors, parents and the wider community is central to our drive for continuous improvement and success.
Alongside my role at Ashdene, I also work as an Inspector for Ofsted and as a School Improvement Partner, supporting other schools in their journey to raise standards and outcomes for children.
Outside school, I’m a mum to three boys, which keeps me busy, grounded and constantly reminded of the joy and energy that children bring!
Teacher Governor - Laura O'Brien
I have been part of the Ashdene staff team since 2015 and am currently one of the Assistant Headteachers within the Senior Leadership Team. My key responsibilities include serving as the school’s Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) and Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) Co-ordinator.
In these roles, I work closely with the Governing Board to ensure that our safeguarding policies and procedures are highly effective in keeping children safe, and that our SEND provision enables all pupils to achieve successful outcomes.
As a Staff Governor, I act as a representative of the staff team, providing a valuable staff perspective during meetings and helping to ensure that the views and experiences of colleagues contribute to the school’s strategic decision-making.
Co-opted - Tracy Scott
I moved back to Wilmslow in 2023 after a 10-year absence living and working around the UK and it’s just lovely to be back home again.
I am family orientated, married with two wonderful grown-up daughters and two very adorable young grandsons.
My work in programme management allows me to use strong business, financial and people skills. Managing large teams is both rewarding and challenging! I believe in enabling and empowering people to achieve their best and in supporting and mentoring where possible.
It is great to be on the Board of Governors at Ashdene. I bring my skills to fully support my colleagues and the school in continuing to provide excellent education and pastoral care for all pupils.
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!
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
I am a parent governor at Ashdene Primary School. I have two children, one child who is currently attending the school.
In my professional role, I work across a school trust to support schools in raising standards and improving outcomes for children. This work gives me a strong understanding of effective teaching, leadership and evidence-informed school improvement. I am also well informed with ongoing developments and reforms in education and understand how these impact on schools, staff and pupils.
I am passionate about the way Ashdene delivers an excellent academic education without compromising enrichment and wider curriculum opportunities. As a governor, I am committed to ensuring that every child at Ashdene Primary School thrives both academically and personally.