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Ysgol Gynradd Pontsenni
Sennybridge C. P. School
Governors
The Sennybridge Community Primary School Governing Body consists of representatives from: the Local Authority, Staff, Community, Minor Authority and Parents.
The current Governing Body structure for 2023-2024 is as follows:
Governor | Governor Category |
Mrs Claire Moore | Chair of Governors - Local Authority |
Mrs Julie Lewis | Vice Chair of Governors - Parent Governor |
Mrs Keri Harry | Headteacher |
Mrs Heulwen Stevens | Teaching Representative Governor |
Mrs Jayne Evans | Non-teaching Representative Governor |
Mr. Phillip Parfitt | Parent Governor |
| Mr. Stephen Powell | Parent Governor |
Miss Sinead Griffiths | Parent Governor |
Mrs Joanne Marney | Community Governor |
Mr. David Price | Community Governor |
Mrs Maria James | Community Governor |
| Mr. Marc Williams | Local Authority |
Mr. Edwin Roderick | Local Authority |
| Mr. Wynn Price | Minor Authority |
Governors Report to Parents 2023 - 2024
ALL members of the Governing Body are obliged to act in accordance with the Code of Conduct for Governing Bodies. All Governing Bodies are also duty bound to work within the legal parameters set within The Government of Maintained Schools (Wales) 2005 Act.
Parent Governor Elections November 2024
Governing Body Pen Portraits
Chair of Governors (Local Authority Representative) - Mrs Claire Moore
" My name is Claire Moore and I am a Local Authority Governor (appointed in November 2024) and previously a parent governor from 2020. I am currently the Chair of the Board of Governors.
I grew up on the family farm in the local area before moving away to study politics at Aberystwyth University. I spent the majority of my career in Oxford where I worked primarily in the public sector specialising in strategy development, expanding and leading multi-agency partnerships and commissioning services for large organisations. My husband Darren and I moved back to the family farm in 2014 and we have a daughter who is in now in the year 4. I am very proud of the schools dual stream status and we have encouraged our daughter to participate in the local Eisteddfod which she has very much enjoyed. Darren and I have taken the opportunity to sign up to Welsh classes which take place at school and we are both thoroughly enjoying this and the opportunity to meet other parents. The children regularly test my progress when they see me at school!
I am an Independent Member on Powys County Council’s Standards Committee and have also been appointed to the same role on Brecon Beacons National Parks Standards Committee. I am also on the Board of Trustees of our local Brecon & District Mind which is incredibly rewarding.
I joined the board of governors to make a real difference to the school and it has been one of the most rewarding roles I have carried out. I am the AOLE appointed Governor for Humanities and I love visiting the school to meet with the lead teacher, look at children's books, learning walks and of course talk to our wonderful children about the different areas of work they have been learning about. I take every opportunity to support the school whether that be attending assemblies, meeting with Keri, helping out with community clean ups or attending community events. Being a part of school life is incredibly important and our school is a happy, thriving school which is at the heart of our community.
I am passionate about being part of the team that continues to take Sennybridge School forward in its development. I am often at school picking up my daughter so please do say hello and let me know if you would like to have a chat about anything.
Being a governor at Sennybridge has given me an insight into the opportunities and challenges faced by the school, it has also given me a new understanding and appreciation of the hard work and dedication of all the staff at the school. It is an incredibly rewarding role being able to contribute towards shaping the future of our children’s lives, so they have the best educational opportunities possible. "
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Vice Chair of Governors - Mrs Julie Lewis
" I am currently vice chair of governors at Ysgol Pontsenni and have been a parent governor since May 2019. My current key area of responsibility is the school’s Additional Learning Needs provision as we implement the new Additional Learning Needs Code for Wales introduced in 2021. I am also the AOLE Lead for Language, Literacy and Communication, and really enjoy the time I spend in school finding out how the learners in our school are progressing.
I have lived in the Sennybridge area for most of my life, and I have many happy memories of when I attended Sennybridge School many years ago in the 1980’s! I have two daughters aged 15 and 8. My youngest is in Blwyddyn 4 at Ysgol Pontsenni, and my eldest is in secondary school at Ysgol Gymraeg Ystalyfera.
I decided to stand as parent governor because I felt it was important that the views of parents are reflected and represented on the governing body. I also wanted to play an active role in the school community as we collectively try to ensure that Ysgol Pontsenni provides our children with high quality educational opportunities and a wide range of extra-curricular activities to support their academic, social and emotional development.
I strongly believe that all parents have an important role to play in the long-term success of our school. I would encourage everyone to consider putting themselves forward as school governors of the future or get involved in supporting our active Parent Teachers Association to help with the great work they also do in supporting and fundraising for our school. "
Parent Representative - Miss Sinead Griffiths
"My name is Sinead Griffiths and I have recently been appointed as a Parent Governor at Ysgol Pontsenni. My governor key area of responsibility is for health and wellbeing within the new curriculum.
I have been a Sennybridge C.P. School parent since my Daughter (currently in Year 2) joined the school in Reception, after also having attended the Pre School Setting. I have been extremely grateful for the care and education that she has received, along with the progress she has been helped to make, within the space of time she has attended the school. Therefore, I was eager to give something back to the school, who have given so much to my child, hence my application to be Parent Governor.
In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family and friends, drinking coffee, baking with my Daughter, walking our dog ‘Honey’ or reading together and attending the local gym.
I am currently Deputy Headteacher at Clyro Primary School and am lead for Languages, Literacy and Communication, Deputy Safeguarding Officer, Health and Safety Officer, Teacher Governor and Reception and Year 1 Teacher. I am Forest Schools trained and am also currently leading on the New Curriculum for Wales at Clyro School and am impressed with what Sennybridge School is currently doing towards this. Just a few years ago, I was lucky enough to be involved with the new school build for Clyro School and the moving of schools, which I know is also currently in the process for Sennybridge School.
Having been a teacher and worked in a school for almost 9 years, I have a variety of skills and knowledge, to bring as a contribution to the school.
Being a teacher myself, I am aware of the dedication of teaching and non-teaching staff and feel it is important that there is a work life balance of all staff members, whilst still ensuring parents are happy with the education that their children are being provided with.
I am dedicated to giving my time, to finding out more about the school, whilst offering my skills and experience, to support the school further.
Being both a teacher and a Parent, I have both the knowledge and experience to be a critical friend to the school, supporting and challenging appropriately.
The children’s future is extremely important to me, I have a passion for making a difference and therefore I am delighted to be given the opportunity in making a difference to the education of the children and to the school as whole, helping the children to reach their full potential, whilst supporting the headteacher and staff who work so hard at Sennybridge C.P. School to keeping it a happy and friendly place, ensuring learners thrive and reach their full potential. "
Parent Representative - Mr. Phillip Parfitt
Parent Governor - Mr. Stephen Powell
First and foremost, I want to express my deep connection to Ysgol Gynradd Pontsenni/Sennybridge C.P. School. It holds a special place in my heart as I was a student here during the 1980s. It was here that I had my first encounter with a computer, specifically the BBC Micro. This early exposure ignited a lifelong fascination with technology and computing, which has not only become a rewarding hobby but also shaped my professional path. Currently, I fix PCs and teach automated software testing tools to adults, imparting my knowledge and expertise in this field. I owe much to this school and are keen to give back whenever and wherever possible.
In line with this desire and my passion for technology, I have actively participated in nurturing the digital literacy of our students. I am proud to say that I initiated an after-school computing club at our school, where I hope to inspire them – much as I was – to explore the wonders of technology and foster their problem-solving skills. It brings me great joy to witness their growth, confidence, and creativity as they navigate the digital world. As a Parent Governor, I envision expanding these efforts, working closely with the school staff and fellow governors to further enhance the computing curriculum, ensuring its relevance and progressiveness.
In addition to my technological expertise I am also a proud parent of two children who attend the school. Both are taught through the medium of Welsh, with my youngest currently in year 2. Whilst my partner is a Welsh first-language speaker, I am not – although I am currently learning. Rydw i'n dysgu Cymraeg ers 2016 gyda Duolingo a mewn dosbarth ar-lein gyda thiwtor ers mis Medi 2020. The perspective this has given me into the challenges and needs of students and parents alike is of particular relevance to our school as a dual Welsh/English institution. I am deeply committed to preserving and promoting the Welsh language and culture. I believe that by actively engaging with the language, I can help bridge any linguistic gaps and facilitate effective communication between the school, parents, and the wider community.
I genuinely believe that my experiences as a former student, a technology enthusiast, a language learner, and a parent equip me with a unique perspective that contribute effectively to the governance and strategic direction of Sennybridge C.P. School.
Local Authority Representative - Mr. Marc Williams
My name is Marc Williams and I am the Community Governor at Ysgol Pontsenni, elected in November 2020. As a Governor, I am the representative on the School Council and the Eco Council at the School.
I am a former pupil of Sennybridge School back in the 1990’s and was brought up in the farming community, being part of Sennybridge YFC, and only moving away to attend university and work for a year. I am passionate about the environment and the natural world, which I am keen to pass on to the children at the school. This passion has led me to travel and explore many parts of the world including the Amazon Rainforest, America and Europe. I attended Aberystwyth University to study Environmental Science followed by a Masters degree in Environmental Monitoring and Analysis. I now work for Natural Resources Wales as an agricultural policy advisor, working closely with Welsh Government.
With my passion for the environment, I would like to support the school on outdoor activities, to help with development of the school and encourage the use of outdoor learning which is a fantastic part of the Welsh curriculum.
I believe the community is a key part of the school. I would like to be that voice for the community, to encourage them to take part in activities, and support the long-term success of the school. Sennybridge school are extremely lucky to have the outdoor space right on its doorstep, which provides so many opportunities for learning and developing skills. What I can remember from my primary school years was being outside either at the pond, down in the woods or planting trees across the road opposite the entrance! Memories that last. I hope being a Community Governor, I can play my part in supporting the children of Sennybridge school to learn about the natural world, assist the development of vital future skills and helping to shape those memories that last for a lifetime.
Community Representative - Mrs Maria James
I’m Maria, I’m 48 and recently appointed community governor. I currently live in Sennybridge and am married with 3 children, all educated in Ysgol Pontsenni.
I was born and grew up in the city of Swansea to Northern Irish parents. I completed my degree in English and Mediaeval Studies in Swansea University and then my PGCE in English and Drama.
I taught English to 11-18 year olds for 13 years in various schools, also being appointed to various roles during that time including mentor, assistant head of year 10 and 11, literacy coordinator, assistant Head of English and Head of English, so am familiar with the inner workings and challenges that schools and teachers face.
Around 16 years ago we moved to the area and have since made many great friends and connections here. I am a member of a local art group, work in Sennybridge Camp and am responsible for admin in Verve Kickboxing Brecon, where I am currently training for my brown belt. I also run a holiday let and keep chickens, both of which have helped me to make links with people in the area. Other areas of interest are reading, cooking, learning languages and gardening.
Having lived in various places in Wales and taught in different areas of the country, I have an excellent understanding and knowledge of how the community and school can work together to support the learning experiences of all pupils to help them to thrive in their local area and beyond.
I have one child left in Ysgol Pontsenni and am excited to support the school as it continues to evolve.
Community Representative - Mr. David Price
"My name is David Price and I am a Community Governor at Sennybridge School.
I’m a former pupil of Sennybridge CP School, Llandovery College and a graduate of Harper Adams University. I hail from a local farming family and am married to Bethan. We live in Defynnog and have two young daughters who attend Ysgol Pontsenni and Meithrin Pontsenni. We are a Welsh-speaking family.
I’m a director of a regional firm of Chartered Surveyors, Land and Estate Agents and Auctioneers and am a surveyor myself with expertise in property and agricultural law and taxation, estate management and valuation. I act on behalf of a range of private clients and public bodies.
I am very much rooted in the Sennybridge and district community being involved with Defynnog Parish Church, Sennybridge Young Farmers’ Club, village halls, Sennybridge Show, and many other local charities and initiatives. Ysgol Pontsenni is a vital part of our community and likewise, the community is an important aspect of school life in such a rural, farming area.
I have a particular interest in music and performing arts and am the AOLE appointed Governor for Creative and Expressive Arts. I very much enjoy visiting the school to help with developing music in particular. I also play the piano and organ for school events to help offer experiences of live music and performance. I was fortunate as a pupil to have had opportunities to perform locally in school and village concerts and Eisteddfodau and feel strongly about ensuring the learners at Ysgol Pontsenni have access to similar experiences. The Arts and performance help people develop a variety of skills including creativity, communication, confidence, empathy and collaboration.
I also place great importance on nurturing an interest in the Welsh culture and language. I am a passionate advocate of the Eisteddfod and Bethan and I are always at hand to assist and support anyone wishing to compete in the Urdd Eisteddfod as well as other local Eisteddfodau. I’m proud of the Welsh language skills that pupils in Ysgol Pontsenni develop; around 35% of people in the Maescar ward are Welsh-speaking, so it is important that the pupils of Ysgol Pontsenni develop language skills to reflect their community and to enable them to live and work locally should they choose to stay in the area.
For me, the school is a warm, welcoming place where local children develop skills and interests which enable them to flourish and to feel a part of a wider community. Ysgol Pontsenni gives its pupils a solid foundation for secondary education, but also helps pupils build confidence and social relationships for when they join the Young Farmer’s Club, or later in life sit on the village hall committee, or the Community Council. Schools do not exist in isolation, and Ysgol Pontsenni in particular is at the heart of our community."
Minor Authority Representative - Mr. Wynn Price
Awaiting response from Governor
Community Representative - Mrs Joanne Marney
Awaiting response from Governor
Local Authority Representative - Mr. Edwin Roderick
"I've always lived in the area with children and grandchildren attending the school. The school has always been the hub of the community and I am proud to have been instrumental in the successful application for the new build school going forward.
I represent Powys County Council as the LEA member, and I represent Powys on the “Welsh Books Council” and their Welsh champion also learning and skills committee, and board member of the “Brecon Beacons National Park” of which I am Vice Chair of planning.
Teaching Staff Representative - Mrs Heulwen Stevens
" Fy enw i yw Heulwen Stevens ac rwy'n dysgu Dosbarth Afonydd yn Ysgol Gynradd Gymunedol Pontsenni. Hefyd, rwy'n gweithio fel Cydlynydd Anghenion Dysgu Ychwanegol (CADY) ac yn aelod o'r Uwch DÎm Rheoli. Mae gen i brofiad o weithio'n agos iawn gyda staff, rhieni ac asiantaethau allanol. Rwyf wedi gweithio fel athrawes ddosbarth yn yr ysgol ers 2011 ac rwyf wedi bod yn ddigon lwcus i ddysgu pob oedran.
Tu allan i'r ysgol, rwy'n byw yn Abercraf ac yn fam i dair merch o 8 oed i 14eg oed. Fy niddordebau yw darllen, gwersi celf a rygbi cyffwrdd menywod.
Rwyf o hyd wedi bod yn angerddol yn fy rôl fel athrawes a ches i'r cyfle i fod yn Bennaeth Dros Dro dros dymor Y Gwanwyn 2024 ac roedd y profiad yr un mwyaf gwobrwyol o fy ngyrfa broffesiynol. Rydym yn deulu clos yn Ysgol Gynradd Gymunedol Pontsenni ac rwy'n hynod o ddiolchgar i ddysgu yn yr ysgol a bod yn aelod o'r tÎm y Corff Llywodraethwyr.
My name is Heulwen Stevens and I teach Dosbarth Afonydd at Ysgol Gynradd Gymunedol Pontsenni. I am also the ALNCo and a member of the Senior Leadership Team. I have experience of working closely with staff, parents and outside agencies. I have worked as a class teacher at the school since 2011 and I have been lucky enough to teach all ages.
Outside of school, I live in Abercraf and I am a mum to three girls from age 8 to 14. My hobbies include reading, art class and ladies touch rugby.
I have always been passionate in my role as a teacher and I had the privilege of becoming the Acting Headteacher for the spring term of 2024 and I found the experience to be the most rewarding of my professional career. At Ysgol Gynradd Gymunedol Pontsenni we are a family and I am very grateful to be able to teach here and be a member of the Governing Body."
Teaching Staff Representative - Mrs Jayne Evans
"My name is Jayne Evans and I have worked at Sennybridge School for the past 14 years. I live in Lower Chapel with my husband and we have 2 grown up children who both went to Ysgol Y Bannau and then Brecon High School.
Since joining Sennybridge School I have gained my BA Social Inclusion (Inclusive Education) and 2 years later my Graduate Certificate in Additional Needs. In 2022 I also gained my qualification as a HLTA. As well as my TA role I am also a Midday Supervisor.
I feel it is important to have a representative for the Teaching Assistants as I believe we all play an important role in ensuring the children have the best experience possible at Ysgol Pontsenni.
Outside of school my hobbies include baking and craft work and I enjoy swimming and walking at weekends. I am also heavily involved in my local church in Merthyr Cynog.
I have worked across all the English stream classes but currently enjoying my role in Cogau."