Chris is a Trust appointed governor who lives in Fowey and is an active member of the local community. He currently chairs the Local Academy Committee and is a lifelong supporter of the arts in education. He has worked as an English teacher, trainer and leadership coach, with headships of three secondary schools. Other work includes Senior Director (National Strategies) where he led on closing attainment gaps, Assistant Director (Research) with the National College for School Leadership and international work on future schools with the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). He is committed to developing Fowey River Academy’s place at the heart of the community and supporting the school in its determination to give every student a happy, memorable and successful education. Chris is married to Helen, a professional artist, and they have four grown-up children.

Sarah is a Trust appointed governor who lives in Fowey. She is Vice Chair of the Local Academy Committee at Fowey River Academy, a school she attended and where her children are now students. She is passionate about social mobility and committed to creating opportunities for all. Professionally, Sarah is a management consultant that works with international companies and government departments in heavy industries to improve their businesses and operations. She is a Fellow Chartered Accountant and holds a Masters degree in Mechanical Engineering with French. Sarah also serves as Deputy Treasurer of Women in Mining UK, a volunteer non-profit organisation dedicated to promoting the employment, retention and advancement of women in the mining sector.

I am a co-opted governor, having lived in Fowey for eighteen years. I am retired but currently work at FRA as an invigilator. I brought up my two sons as a single working mum in Plymouth where I worked in the local authority in management of social care, human resources and health, safety and well-being. More latterly, I am a grandmother, passionate about healthy and happy child development, and thoroughly enjoy being a supportive invigilator assisting students with their exams. Having worked at the school now for three years, I can see the improvements that the Head and his team have made. I want to support and encourage the continued hard work that is effecting positive change and development. I believe every child deserves the best education, in a safe, supportive, encouraging environment where they can develop individually and as a member of the school and local community. I want to offer my services to help this endeavour. I am particularly interested in ensuring all students have the opportunity to develop positive self-esteem and confidence that enables them to thrive and achieve their best. I believe there is great potential to explore the mutual benefits that could be gained from a stronger relationship between the Academy and the local community. The School has great facilities they already share with the community, for example the Sports Hub. Students, just by their presence in the community, can offer great joy and inspiration through their youthful energy and enthusiasm. I believe there is a great deal the local community could and would offer the school if we developed closer ties.

Having attended Fowey School and as a long-standing member of the local community, I have a deep personal connection to the school. All my children have attended Fowey, with one still currently enrolled, and I continue to support the school’s values and its role in shaping young lives. I am currently a Curriculum Area Manager at The Cornwall College Group, where I support curriculum development and quality improvement across a range of subject areas. I have contributed to the college’s recent achievement of an Outstanding grade, reflecting a strong commitment to high standards in education. I bring practical experience in managing teams, supporting learners, and working collaboratively to enhance teaching and learning—skills that are well-suited to a governance role focused on supporting strategic direction and accountability. I’m passionate about supporting the school and our local community because I believe education is the foundation for opportunity and growth. As a Curriculum Area Manager, I’ve seen firsthand how a strong, supportive learning environment can transform lives. My personal interest in education stems from a deep commitment to helping young people thrive, and I’m proud to contribute to a school that has positively impacted my own family. Being part of this community gives me a chance to give back, strengthen local connections, and help shape a brighter future for all. My goal is to help the school continue to develop and thrive by offering both professional insight and a parental perspective. I’m committed to supporting its mission of delivering a high-quality education to every student. By contributing constructive feedback and engaging with the wider school community, I hope to play a part in shaping a positive, inclusive, and forward-thinking environment where all learners can succeed.