The Grammar Governing Board is composed of dedicated individuals committed to ensuring the success and well-being of students at Chatham Grammar. The Board works collaboratively with school leadership, teachers, parents and the community to make informed decisions that contribute to the overall growth and excellence of the academy.
In an effort to strengthen ties with the Chatham Grammar community, the Governing Board are looking to actively work in the future to foster a closer connection with parents, carers, and the wider community. The Board members have demonstrated a commitment to transparency, collaboration, and communication, aiming to create a more inclusive and supportive educational environment for all.
One of the key focuses of the Governing Board is to participate in the day-to-day activities of the academy. Board members have attended various school events, observed classes, and interacted with both students and staff to gain a first-hand understanding of the academy's strengths and areas for improvement. This approach reflects the Board's commitment to being hands-on and responsive to the evolving needs of the academy.
For more information about UKAT Governance, please visit our website https://www.universityofkentacademiestrust.org.uk/governance
New Appointment of Chair and Vice Chair
Jo Southby - Chair
We would like to congratulate Jo Southby who has been nominated as the new Chair of the Chatham Grammar Local Governing Board (CG LGB). Jo has been a Governor on the CG LGB since March 2022 and is the SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) Link Governor. Jo has worked in education for over thirty years, the last twenty in educational leadership, and is currently CEO of a Multi-Academy Trust in Southeast London. As an ex-Chatham Grammar student, Jo is delighted to now contribute to the ongoing
development and improvement of the academy as a “critical friend”, promoting outstanding standards of provision for all children through robust challenge and scrutiny.
Having previously been a Chair of Governors and currently in her roles as a Trustee for the National Autistic Society Academy Trust and the Finance Governor for an all-through Kent special school, Jo has significant experience of governance. Jo has lived in the Medway area for almost twenty years and has a daughter at Chatham Grammar.
Oliver Martin - Vice Chair
Congratulations to Oliver Martin who has once again been nominated as the Vice Chair for the CG LGB for the second year running.
Meet the Governor
Elaine Francis-Rockall – Parent Governor
I am the first generation of my family to go to University and therefore feelvery strongly about the power that education and school life has to transform the lives of young people. I feel very lucky that my child attends Chatham Grammar, and I welcome this opportunity to contribute to the academy's continued success as a Parent Governor.
I have been a professional in my field for over 30 years and have experience as a Parent Governor at my child’s previous junior school.
I am experienced in working in a regulated environment where compliance, governance, and integrity are key. In my personal life I am a communicative, thoughtful, and caring individual; my skills and experience will add significant value to the Local Governing Board and enable me to support the academy and help children thrive.
