Our Governing Body
The Governing Body plays a vital role in the strategic leadership of the school. Governors work closely with the Headteacher and senior staff to support and challenge the school in order to ensure the best outcomes for all pupils. Their key responsibilities include setting the school’s vision and values, monitoring progress and performance, overseeing financial management, and ensuring the school remains a safe and inclusive environment for all. Our Governing Body is made up of dedicated volunteers who bring a range of skills and experiences to the role. Our current Chair of Governors is Lisa McGuire.
We also welcome interest in becoming a co-opted governor. Co-opted governors are appointed based on the skills and experience they can bring to the Governing Body, rather than representing a specific group (such as parents or staff). It's a rewarding role that involves attending meetings, contributing to strategic discussions, and helping shape the future of the school. If you're interested in finding out more, please contact the school office—we’d be happy to hear from you.
Lisa McGuire – Chair of Governors, Parent Governor
I first joined the governing body as a Parent Governor and stepped into the role of Chair of Governors last year. The Board of Governors plays a key part in shaping the school’s strategic direction and ensuring it meets all statutory responsibilities. I bring experience in Health & Safety, Human Resources, and a strong background in business. As a parent of two children at the school, I am deeply committed to its ongoing success and to ensuring every pupil receives an excellent education. I remain dedicated to using my skills and experience to help the school continue to thrive for the benefit of all pupils, staff, and the wider community.
Christine Hatton – Local Authority Governor
My career has been in primary education, beginning as a teacher and progressing to Headteacher in two Hampshire schools. I later moved to West Sussex, working as an advisor to numerous primary schools and serving as an OFSTED Inspector. After retiring from that role, I continued school improvement consultancy work with around 20 schools before fully retiring. I served as a governor in a Gosport school for 10 years before joining Red Barn in 2013. During my time here, I have supported the school in the areas of SEND and EYFS and spent three years as Chair of Governors. Outside of my governance work, I play in a ukulele group that regularly performs at Red Barn, and I enjoy photography, embroidery, and many other creative hobbies.
Iain Hudson – Parent Governor, Co-opted Governor
I became a governor at Red Barn Community School because it is a strong local primary school with which my family has close ties. Since the appointment of the new Headteacher, I have worked increasingly closely with the school, helping to strengthen links between primary and secondary phases. My experience as a school leader, along with previous governance roles and long-standing involvement in the community, helps me support the school’s ongoing development. My professional background in retail and accountancy—supported by a degree in accountancy—enables me to bring a broad and practical skill set to the governing body.
Matthew Williams – Parent Governor
I was fortunate to have an education that shaped my life profoundly, and I want to use my skills and experience to help Red Barn offer the same transformative opportunities to all children, including those who may be disadvantaged. As a parent of pupils at the school, I have seen its exceptional impact first-hand and welcome the opportunity to support the leadership team in maintaining excellence and preparing for future challenges.
I strongly believe in the partnership between teacher, pupil, and parent—and in our shared responsibility to help young people fulfil their potential. In my role as Secretary General of an international NGO, I am experienced in Board accountability and the leadership required for strong, informed governance. As a company director, I also bring oversight of business administration, compliance, employment law, finance, and health and safety. Having been both a service child and a serviceman, I understand the particular challenges faced by service families within the school community.
Suzanne O’Gara, PhD – Co-opted Governor
I chose to become a governor to support young people in achieving their full potential. With my professional background as a clinician, I have strong experience in data-driven decision-making and evidence-based improvement. I’m committed to helping the school continue to grow by contributing expertise in leadership and quality improvement, ensuring that every child receives the best possible education. As a resident of the local community, I value the opportunity to make a positive difference to the lives of young people and to strengthen the school’s connection with the families it serves.
Anis Mahmud – Co-opted Governor
I bring extensive experience in school finance and HR, offering practical insight to support strong governance and sound resource management. As a father of two, I understand the pressures schools face and am committed to helping ensure every child enjoys the best possible school experience.I support the governing body in making informed financial decisions that benefit the school both now and in the long term, and I contribute to building robust health and safety practices to help create a safe and supportive environment for all. Outside my governance role, I’m a keen footballer and can often be found on the pitch on a Friday night!
