Governors are unwavering in their support for the school. They challenge leaders effectively to gain a clear understanding of the school’s strengths and areas for development.

    Ofsted

    Governors Information and Duties

    Introduction

    Governance within The Corinium Education Trust is built on a robust three-layered structure that ensures accountability. This framework brings together Members, Trustees, and Local Governing Bodies, each with distinct roles and responsibilities, as outlined in the CET’s Scheme of Delegation.
     
    Local Governing Bodies (see LGB Terms of Reference)  play a vital role in supporting schools within the Corinium Education Trust. Acting as a link between the Trust Board and individual schools, Local Governing Bodies work to ensure each school thrives and upholds a clear vision, values, and direction that reflect the Trust’s overarching goals.
    Key responsibilities include:
    • Acting as a critical friend by providing guidance and challenge to school leaders.
    • Ensuring the school has a clear vision, ethos, and strategic direction.
    • Monitoring academic standards, pupil outcomes and attendance
    • Supporting safeguarding, special educational needs, and equality practices.
    • Ensuring the voices of parents, pupils, and staff are heard, creating strong connections within the school community.
    • As a Church school, the Down Ampney Local Governing Body upholds the school’s Christian ethos and distinctiveness. 
    Please find below details of how our Governing body is structured, including the names, categories, responsibilities and terms of appointment for each Governor. You may also view our register of interests.

    Parent Governor

    Pip Taylor

    I am a parent governor, I joined in 2021, my son is currently attending the school, and we live just on the out skirts of the village.
    I am a firm believer that schools form the heart of every village and that small rural schools are particularly important. 
    Education is the greatest gift, and I hope to be able to support my fellow governors and teaching staff at the school in any way I can to help our school to thrive and develop in this ever-changing world.
     
    I was brought up on a farm, so all aspects of the countryside and farming are very dear to me. I was part of the local Young Farmer Organisation for many years, and currently have been Chair / Vice Chair of the VWH Riding Club for the past 15 years.
     
    I joined the NHS Ambulance Service in 2003 and work as a Paramedic from Cirencester Station. Its a privilege to help those in need and at times truly humbling, but its making a difference is what counts.

    Vice-Chair

    Clare Smith

    I qualified as a teacher in 2005 and have worked in a high school and a local sixth form college. I have had several roles during this time including teaching A levels, BTECs, GCSEs and now the new T Level in Childcare and Education. My main subject area is Psychology with particular interest in mental health and forensic psychology.

    For 5 years I was involved in training new FE teachers and I have since supported many new members of staff in my team and across the college. Since having my daughter, my interest in child psychology has increased and I have completed an Early Years Diploma, along with certificates in child psychology and special educational needs.

    I have a particular interest in early years, as I currently teach students who are aiming for careers in early years or working in primary schools. I look forward to using my knowledge and skills to enable the school to support the wellbeing of the school community as well as the children’s academic success.

    Mrs Gray

    Headteacher

    Rebecca Gray

    I have been teaching in small and medium-sized schools throughout Gloucestershire since 1997. I became Headteacher of Down Ampney in January 2021. 

    It’s an absolute joy to still have a teaching commitment and be able to lead and mentor colleagues while maintaining that vital classroom connection. 

    I am fortunate to lead a dedicated and talented team and to enjoy the support and assistance of an active governing body, diocese and PTA. 

    Ex-Officio Foundation Governor

    Rev Canon John Swanton

    I have been Team Rector of the South Cotswolds Team Ministry in the Gloucester Diocese since July 2014, which comprises some 22 historic churches across 15 rural parishes with a team of clergy. I have direct responsibility for five rural parishes in ‘The Ampneys’ near Cirencester and have been there since September 2011.

    Before that, my career had been in housing for some 26 years. I have a wide range of experience and expertise in housing management, development, finance and community engagement. I championed rural housing and housing options for older people and people with special needs. I was a member of the Local Government Association’s expert advisory panel on the reform of Council Housing (HRA) Finance (2008-2011). When working for a local authority, I had a lead role in safeguarding and liaison with health and social services.

    At present, I am a Governor of two small village Primary Schools; a Trustee of a small educational trust and a local community trust. I am a member of the Diocese of Gloucester’s Houses Committee and Diocesan Synod. I am a Trustee of a national grant-making Trust – ‘The Sons and Friends of the Clergy’.

    I enjoy gardening, historic buildings, walking the family dog and keeping bantams. I am married to Nicola and we have a daughter Eleanor, who is studying medicine at Leeds University.

    Foundation Governor

    Jemima Horton

    I live in Poulton, and have two grandchildren living locally who attend the school.

    I have run my own business and during this time I was also an elected councillor, first in Swindon and then in Wiltshire. I recently retired as a Non-Executive Director at the Great Western Hospital.

    I have always been passionate about education. I believe all children deserve a rounded education to help them achieve their full potential.

    Staff Governor

    Sophy Homan-Green

    I love the way that everyone works together and supports each other at Down Ampney, both the children and the adults alike. There is a real sense of devotion to continual improvement whilst still upholding the school’s vision and values. There are strong, positive relationships with every member of the school community.

    Parent Governor

    Olivia Ogbomo

    My daughter joined the school in September 2022 and has loved every second of it. I see this role as a great opportunity for me to support the village school. I hope to enable Rebecca and her team to continue in providing a supportive and positive educational experience for all the students at Down Ampney.

    I am a physiotherapist by profession, but currently working as a project manager in the civil service. This is my first experience in a governor role and I feel extremely lucky to be serving alongside people with such a wealth of experience.

    Outside of work I help run Fairford Netball Club as well as play for them. I’m an all round sport enthusiast and I’m looking forward to supporting the school in this area.

    Parent Governor

    Mr Nathan Barnett

    “I have lived in Gloucestershire my whole life. My wife and I moved to Cirencester 12 years ago, and to Down Ampney three years ago. I have one child at the school and one joining shortly.

    The school and community were important in our decision to move to the village, and I’m pleased to join an experienced governing team at the school to help build on the excellent work to date.

    I have a background in digital marketing and have helped to launch and grow several businesses in the local area. I have also served in leadership and consultant roles at large national and international organisations.”