Meet the Governors
Mrs Diane Osborne
Mrs Gemma Webb (Parent Governor)
I became a Governor to make a difference. I have had 2 children at John Donne since 2015 and though this time have seen extensive change, challenge and success.
I joined as a Governor during the lockdown period when the school was adjusting to online ways of working. I remember wanting to join because at the time did not feel I knew who the Governors were and what they did.
Since joining and taking on vice chair, and then chair, we have seen so many changes in the school Governance and leadership. My children also facing many of the challenges the school has experienced over many years. However, they continue to enjoy and achieve, and this is what drives me to improve the school and get it where it needs to be.
Being a Governor is voluntary, and whilst there are a lot of regulations and rules, there is a lot of rewarding satisfaction at the same time. I work full time and have a family but give up a few hours a week to undertake Governor responsibilities.
John Donne needs more Governors and I can’t recommend it enough if you or anyone you know wants to make a difference to your local school.
Peter Holden (Foundation Governor)
I have been a PCC Governor since my children were at John Donne and now my grandchildren are also there. I am passionate about the role of the school within the local community. My long career with the RSPB involved youth and adult education, volunteering and public relations, and there are many transferable skills I can bring to the School's Governing Board. I am also Vice-chair of Blunham Parish Council.
Revd Graham Buckle (Foundation Ex-Officio)
Mr Raymond Flatt (PCC Governor)
Mrs Lorraine Smith (PCC Governor)
Mr Ashley Higgs (Parent Governor)
Mrs Samantha Bradbury (Staff Governor)
Adam Prosho (Parent Governor)
In my day job as Global Training Director for the Integrated Laboratory Solutions division at CBRE, I am consistently seeking new and innovative ways to engage our global workforce in their own Learning & Development. Having two children at John Donne, I see this as an amazing opportunity to bring in ideas & learnings from industry into their school and ensure all pupils are best equipped for the workplace of the future!
Natalie Creed (Foundation Governor)
I joined the governing body at John Donne in July 2022. I have lived in Blunham for many years and my son previously attended the school. I joined the governing body as I am passionate about school improvement, teaching and learning excellence and ensuring all pupils have the very best educational offer. I have worked in outstanding primary schools in London for 25 years and am looking forward to supporting the school in my village to become the very best it can be
Anita Whitehurst (Executive Headteacher)
I am part of the Governing Board in my role as Headteacher. I became Executive Headteacher in July 2022 which means I lead both John Donne and St Swithun's Church of England VC Primary School in Sandy. I have been involved in education for the last 22 years and have been a Headteacher for 11 years. I am looking forward to working with everyone at John Donne and to ensure the school becomes an even greater place to learn!
Eddie Kirk (Head of School)
I joined John Donne Primary School in September 2022, while also performing a similar role at St Swithun’s Church of England Primary School. I have been involved in classroom teaching for almost 20 years and I have also worked in a variety of school advisory and improvement roles, supporting schools and teachers on behalf of Kent and Central Bedfordshire local authorities, the Diocese of St Alban’s and as part of Redborne Teaching Partnership.