Helen Robinson – Chair

I have been a parent Governor since September 2021 and was elected Chair in June 2024. I oversee SEND and Literacy.

I have 2 children at school, Emily and Alexander. Prior to having my children, I worked as a Solicitor specialising in Private Client work for approximately 10 years, working in large commercial firms in Yorkshire and Newcastle.

I love being a Governor and supporting the school. I am often in school carrying out Governor visits, meeting with staff, helping with SATS or generally helping out where I can.

Revd Helen O’Sullivan – Vice Chair

Vicar of Acklington, Shilbottle and Warkworth since September 2019 previously serving in the Diocese of London, Portsmouth and Oxford.

Before ordination I managed Business Operations at Oxford University Press following tenyears in Mental Healthcare.

I absolutely love my weekly visits to the school and the way that the church and school work together within the wider community.

Graeme Popay – Governor

I am deeply engaged in village and community life, serving as a Parish Councillor for several years. Additionally, I coordinate the activities and entertainment for the Warkworth Show and manage the administration of the Village Facebook page.

Gardening is a cherished hobby of mine, and I feel fortunate to have a burgage plot to tend to. However, my primary passion lies in Scouting. Having been a member since the age of 8, I’ve held various roles over the years. Notably, in 2022, I played a key role in establishing a new Scout Group in Alnmouth, offering Scouting opportunities to children as young as 4.

On a personal note, I am happily married to Ann, an exceptional early years teacher, and we are proud parents of four grown children.

Jonathan Booth – Headteacher

I am the headteacher of Warkworth CofE Primary School. I was born and raised in Kent, read History at the University of Cambridge, then completed postgraduate studies in Newcastle – the North East has been my home ever since.

Having completed teacher training through Teach First, I first worked in the west end of Newcastle, then became a Deputy Headteacher, before receiving the greatest professional honour of my life in being named headteacher of Warkworth.

I am the proud father of a wonderful daughter and am married to a highly-talented teacher. I am delighted to be part of the Heads Forward Network of headteachers and am passionate about schools supporting vulnerable families in every way they can.

Courtney Milne – Staff Governor

Born and raised in Lancashire, I moved to Northumberland in 2022 and joined Warkworth Primary School as a class teacher and Curriculum Lead. I began as the Year 4 teacher and now teach Year 6. Since joining the school, I have taken on a range of additional responsibilities, such as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead (DDSL), Early Career Teacher (ECT) mentor and leadership of multiple curriculum subjects. I have also had the privilege of being promoted to Deputy Headteacher, a role I am honoured to hold as part of our dedicated leadership team. I am proud to serve as Staff Governor and I’m excited about the opportunity to represent my colleagues and contribute to the continued development of our school. Being a voice for the staff and helping shape the strategic direction of Warkworth is a responsibility I take great pride in.

Claire Gelson – Parent Governor

I am a proud parent of two wonderful children who attend the school, fueling my passion to be actively involved and offer support wherever possible. You’ll often find me in the school, either in my role as a governor or as Treasurer of the PTFA, ‘Friends of Warkworth’, where I
help plan and deliver events to raise funds that directly benefit the children.

After the birth of my eldest daughter, I dedicated six years as a volunteer supporting NHS breastfeeding services across North Northumberland. Before having children, I spent 20 years working in the banking industry, with 12 years in management roles.

I was elected as a Parent Governor in 2023, with current link areas in Personal Development and Vulnerable Children.

Hilary Hamilton – Governor

Megan Forsyth – Governor

Dave Morrison – Governor