Chair of Governors : Mrs Victoria Kelly

I currently work for the education charity Teach First as a Development Lead. In this role I train primary teachers across the North-East during their initial teacher training and NQT year supporting them, their mentors and the schools in which they work to develop exceptional teachers and future leaders. I also deliver on the newly introduced Early Career Framework programme which provides a package of training and support for Newly Qualified Teachers across the country and their mentors. My personal values resonate with those of Teach First which aims to end education inequality for disadvantaged students and build a fair education for all regardless of background.

Prior to working at Teach First, I was a primary school teacher with experience in Early Years, Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2 and I have significant knowledge and experience of the National Curriculum, curriculum design and assessment. Being passionate about my local area (I am from Hartlepool and have lived here my whole life), I have always worked locally including two Deputy Headships – one in Horden and the other at Jesmond Gardens in Hartlepool. As a Deputy Head I had significant responsibility for standards of learning and teaching and I believe this experience could be very beneficial in my role as Chair of Governors at Eldon Grove. I have served as a staff Governor at two different schools as well as spending time as a trustee for a local MAT.

I have been lucky to spend time at Eldon Grove due to my work as a Development Lead and have supported a number of trainee teachers across Extol Trust. I have always been welcomed warmly by the staff team and it is clear how much the staff strive to do what is best for the children - this being one of the reasons I feel passionate about supporting the school as a Governor.

Outside of education, I can often be found on the beach with my dog Lucy (the former school dog at Jesmond Gardens) and love to travel.