The Croft Governing Committee plays a vital advisory role, supporting the Board in shaping the school’s strategy and policies to ensure every pupil thrives. Governors do not manage day-to-day operations but provide guidance and constructive challenge by reviewing data, attending events, meeting staff and pupils and monitoring teaching, curriculum and safeguarding practices. Drawing on their diverse expertise, they offer fresh perspectives and informed advice that help strengthen the school’s learning environment and maintain exceptional standards.

Accountable to parents and the wider community, the Committee can be contacted via the Governance Professional: governors@croftschool.co.uk

Vanessa Aris MBE

Chair of the Governing Committee

Vanessa Aris is a former Science teacher with over 40 years’ experience and continues to inspire students through tutoring at GCSE, A-Level, and beyond. With nearly 20 years as a Governor, Vanessa has contributed her expertise to 14 schools, frequently serving as Chair or Vice-Chair, and has supported Headteachers and Local Authorities as a trusted advisor on governance. Her dedication to education and leadership in school governance was recognised with an MBE in 2000, reflecting her lasting impact on schools, staff and pupils alike.

Vanessa’s connection with The Croft spans decades. She taught the Thornton children in Prep School and was well regarded by Tim Thornton, the Headmaster at the time. Later, she played a key role in establishing the Governing Committee, helping to shape the school’s governance for years to come.

Chris Curtis

Governor

Chris brings over 10 years’ experience working on technical construction projects across the education sector, including primary, junior, secondary and higher education. His expertise spans strategic planning, curriculum and gap analysis, master planning and funding applications, alongside a strong understanding of managing risk within live school environments. As a company director, Chris contributes senior-level experience in governance, staff leadership plus health and safety oversight, supporting sustainable development and informed decision-making.

 

David Hann

Governor

David is the parent of two former Croft pupils and brings a wealth of strategic and leadership experience to the Governing Committee. His career has included founding and growing a business, alongside senior roles in general management and marketing within the computer systems sector. As a qualified teacher with experience across the Key Stage 2 curriculum, David combines insight into educational practice with expertise in strategic planning, organisational leadership and informed oversight, supporting the Committee in driving the school’s long-term vision and effectiveness.

 

Mary Morris

Governor

We're thrilled that Mary joined our Governing Committee last year. Biography coming soon.

 

 

 

 

Sarah Pilbeam

Governor

Sarah is an experienced and caring teaching professional with over 20 years’ experience supporting children with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). She specialises in working with autistic children and those with complex learning difficulties, and is passionate about helping every child feel safe, understood and confident.

Sarah works locally at a specialist school. She values strong relationships with children and families, taking time to understand each child as an individual – celebrating their strengths while supporting their needs with patience, structure and care.

Nicholas Berry

Governor

Nicholas Berry is a senior criminal barrister practising across the Midlands and leads the recruitment and training of pupil barristers at his Chambers in Birmingham.

Based in Stratford-upon-Avon, Nicholas has a daughter at the school. As a governor, he brings his legal expertise and dedication to education to support the school’s development and the success of its pupils.

 

Charlotte Tyler

Governor

Charlotte Tyler lives in Stratford-upon-Avon, and all three of her children are former pupils of The Croft, spanning 16 years, with the youngest leaving in 2022.

Charlotte is a PR and Events consultant and brings professional expertise along with a deep passion for children’s education. She joins the committee with a long-standing connection to the school, having been an actively involved parent for nearly two decades.

 

 

 

Rob Cuming

Governor

We're thrilled that Rob joined our Governing Committee last year. Biography coming soon.

 

 

 

 

Karen Powell

Governance Professional

Karen Powell has over 25 years’ experience supporting school governance, leadership and improvement. She runs her own consultancy, works with schools across the country and is an accredited Safer Recruitment and CEOP trainer.

Karen specialises in safeguarding and governance and is passionate about how governors, proprietors and trustees can positively impact the life chances of young people.