The Governing Body is currently made up of the following:

• 2 Parent Governor (elected by parents)
• 6 Appointed Governors
• 2 Co-opted Governors
• 1 Headteacher

Mr Brock, Chair of Governors, can be contacted at cog@beths.bexley.sch.uk  

Mr Webdale, Clerk to Governors, can be contacted at mrwebdale@beths.bexley.sch.uk  

Trust Members 

Chris Hares 

Trust Member 
Term of Office: 1 January 2019 

Since leaving Beths as a student in 2007, I went on to study BA British Politics and Legislative Studies at the University of Hull, MA International Political Economy at King’s College London and MSc Strategic Communications Leadership at the University of Huddersfield. I have built a career focused on communications and politics, but always with a focus on helping people. In my roles I have been an advocate on national broadcast news, helped shape Government policy, working with MPs and supported many young people starting out in their careers. I am now a Head of Communications and Engagement at a health regulator. I owe much of this career to the foundation that Beths gave me.

As a former student at Beths, this school has always been somewhere that I care about greatly. Beths has a fantastic culture of being supported by former students and the community it has makes me very proud. Once you have been here, it becomes a part of you. After many years of coming back to the school as a volunteer after leaving, and with a range of skills that I felt the school could use, I decided it was time to give something back more formally. I was a governor for 6 years, and chair of governors for 3 of those. I have now taken on a different role as a trust member, helping to oversee our trust arrangements.

I think the best way to make an impact as a trust member is to use the skills and expertise you have – whether that is working with young people, or policy, or a legal background, or finance and business – and find a way to use it to help oversee the trust effectively and deliver outcomes for our students.

 

Stephen Mulvaney

​Trust Member 
Term of Office: 23 December 2013 

I became a parent Governor when my son was a student and Beths as I wanted to help support the school. 

I retired in 2019, having spent thirty-six years working in the NHS. I qualified as a Nurse in 1983 and spent fifteen years working in a range of clinical positions in number of acute general hospitals. I then moved into a training/education management role and have over twenty years’ experience in the field of education and development within the NHS, working both in a direct training role and as a facilitator in the process of change management. I became a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development in 2005. 

 

Julie Bowen

Trust Member​
Term of Office: 1 January 2018

Chair of Human Resources Committee; Link Governor for Social Sciences

I have been involved in education all my life. I have a teaching degree and taught until I became an Anglican priest in 2012 with a second degree in Theology and Ordained Ministry. I became a Parent Governor of Beths in 2013 and then an Appointed Governor in early 2017. I am also a Governor at a local primary school as well as being a School Chaplain with teaching responsibilities at another Grammar School. Alongside this I am also a Parish Priest in Bromley. I have two sons, one in his final college year and the other in his final year at Beths. Being a Governor offers opportunity to change lives, to help nurture students and staff, to create an environment of safety, pride, learning and growth where young people can find their path, develop their skills and begin to achieve their potential. Herein lie the young people who will influence the future and it is both exciting and a huge privilege to be part of their story.

 

Andrew Love

Trust Member

Term of Office: 5 September 2022

Graduating from Beths Grammar School in 2007 I then studied Mathematics at the University of Nottingham and followed it up with an MSc in Sustainable Energy Systems at LSBU. I have since founded the Sustainability Consultancy, Love Design Studio, and the non-profit organisation, Shade the UK .

'Love Design Studio' helps design teams, local authorities and developers create sustainable spaces and buildings, including Net-Zero Carbon schools; whereas, 'Shade the UK' is a non-profit aiming to raise awareness of issues related to climate change and the vulnerable, influencing change in the built environment and public spaces, including schools.

My work focuses primarily on consulting to achieve low energy buildings and optimising occupant comfort, albeit; a home, an office or a new classroom. I am also responsible for delivering energy-auditing services for existing buildings and provide strategic advice to reduce energy consumption and carbon emissions.

Given my work is in forward thinking industries I hope to be able to provide a fresh approach to Beths’ development. I also hope my general links with sustainability can help promote environmental ideals within the wider reach of student-growth and school decision making.

Jonathan Brock 

Trust Member and Chair of Trustee
Trustee Term of Office: 21 September 2022

Human Resources Committee

I am a newly appointed Governor and a previous student of Beths, having attended between 2002 and 2009. Following my time at the school, I studied for a bachelor’s degree in Business Management at the University of Brighton. Following my graduation, I then worked as a Human Resources graduate in the utilities industry. I completed the graduate scheme and have held a variety of management roles since. I am currently the Programme Manager for a London-based charity, where I am responsible for delivering the largest Water Efficiency programme in the UK.

Beths holds a special place for me.  It has provided me with a solid foundation for my career and has given me friends for life. I am eager to spend time shaping Beths’ strategy for the future, given my personal experience from when I was a student, as well as the skills I have gained since leaving.

I am really looking forward to getting involved in the Governing Body, to play my part in ensuring Beths remains a strong proposition for prospective students as well as continuing to achieve high academic standards.

Trustee Board Members

Jonathan Brock 

Trust Member and Chair of Trustee
Trustee Term of Office: 5 September 2022 - 31 December 2026

 

 

Catherine Guest

Appointed Governor
Term of Office: 27 February 2021 to 31 December 2024

Joint Vice Chair of Governors; Students Committee; Responsible Officer

After many years in different roles in the educational publishing industry, then gaining a PGCE in primary teaching, I spent six years at the National Literacy Trust, a charity working to give disadvantaged children and young people the literacy skills they need. My role was leading the teacher development programme working with schools in many areas of the country.

I currently work as a senior policy adviser at the Royal Society, focussing on mathematics and computing education.

I have 3 children, each with very different interests and aptitudes, the middle of whom was in Y8 at Beths when I became a parent governor. One of the reasons I wanted to become a governor was to help ensure every student at Beths continues to have a range of high quality opportunities, both academic and extra-curricular, so all can find their strengths, and flourish in a supportive environment.

I hope to contribute some insights from other dimensions of education plus an enthusiasm for learning and willingness to make a difference.

 

Bamidele Ojomo

Parent Governor

Term of Office: 21 May 2021 to 20 May 2025

I studied Applied Geophysics and have worked for about 20years in various industries, including Corporate & Investment Banking, Insurance, Energy and recently in Facilities Management.

My desire for volunteer services in communities began when I used to arrange tutorials for undergrads in my university days and I built on that to become the PRO of the Faculty of Sciences Students' Associatoon, Secretary of the Student Union. My post-university includes service in different capacities in my immediate community and church, especially with the youth.

When my son joined Beths, my desire to contribute to the Beths Community started with serving as the Secretary of the Association just as I joined. I served with a group of indefatigable team members that resuscitated the PA from being a subject of proscription to steadying the ship, and setting it up into a better-structured association. This daunting feat wasn't made easier with the COVID-19 restrictions, as we achieved the turnaround while meeting remotely and under strict restriction from even visiting the school or conducting fundraising activities physically. I served on the PA for two years.

My desire to be a Governor was inspired by the need to  enhance the relationship between the school and the parent community and to mobilise the parent community, to actively contribute their quota towards the short to long-term projects envisioned by the school.

So help me God!

 

Maria Pack

Co-opted Governor​
Term of Office: 25 September 2022 to 24 September 2026 

Careers/Sixth Form; Students Committee; Link Governor for Mathematics; Health & Safety

My earliest memories of Beths were when I was around 4 years old when I watched the Beths Big Band play at the annual school fete where my father was conducting! Over 40 years later, my association with Beths still remains strong.

I studied Chemistry at the University of Southampton and subsequently gained a PhD specialising in Superconducting materials. After a short time working as an editor for a publisher, I gained a PGCE and became a chemistry teacher at Beths. A sabbatical allowed me the opportunity to work for the Royal Society of Chemistry in their Education team which then lead to 15 years working on a variety of projects, including setting up a national CPD programme to train non-specialist science teachers that are teaching chemistry.

Following a family of 3 children who are at schools in Bexley, I am currently an Education Consultant working for various organisations and schools including CLEAPSS, an organisation that supports practical work in science, DT and art.

I have been a governor at Beths for 16 years and have served on various committees. I am currently a co-opted governor serving on the Students committee and am regularly in school supporting the Primary school liaison scheme.

Mike Pack

Co-opted Governor
Term of Office: 10 March 2014 to 9 March 2026

Finance & Assets Committee; Travel Plan; Link Governor for Science

I joined Beths in 1968 as a teacher of physics and chemistry when the school was 3 forms of entry with a role of 480 students. In the 70s with an interest in applied science I became part of the engineering team teaching electronic aspects of engineering. I have had many roles across the school culminating in that of a Deputy Head until my full-time retirement in 2006.  During my entire teaching career at Beths I have seen the school grow from strength to strength and am very proud to have been part of its development and feel privileged to have worked with so many fantastic students and dedicated staff.

As a keen musician I have been pleased to nurture musical development of Beths students running bands and orchestras in numerous concerts for over 30 years.

I am a co-opted governor, sitting on the Finance and Asset Management sub-committee with an extensive knowledge of the school from curriculum to buildings. As a holder of a PCV licence, I am also the Beths coach driver (!) and am regularly in school.

Malcolm Appleby

Trustee
Term of Office:  1 January 2013 - 31st December 2025

Chair of Finance & Assets Committee

 

 

 

Richard Blyghton

Ex Officio
Term Commenced: 1 May 2017 - 30 April 2025

Headteacher; Member of all Committees


 

Raymond Ramsay

Appointed Governor
Term of Office: 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2026

Finance Committee

I am a Certified Charted accountant with experience in providing audit and advisory services to academy trust’s and schools. Before moving into education finance, I worked for a top 10 London accountancy firm specialising in charities, housing associations and the NHS.  As a current CFO to an academy trust, I am committed to improving opportunities for the students.  I shall be using my expertise to assist the Governors in the trust in order to meet their compliance requirements in my role as responsible officer.

Outside of work I am a keen runner and I feel all students should be giving the opportunity to receive an all round education insuring students can focus on all physical and mental activities.

 

Cathy Palmer

Appointed Governor
Term of Office: 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2026

Students Committee

I am a newly appointed Governor and am passionate about education, having spent the vast majority of my working life as a teacher and then Inclusion Manager.  I currently work for Bexley Local Authority as Strategic Lead for SEN Support.  This involves me supporting all of Bexley’s primary and secondary schools to ensure that vulnerable children and those with special educational needs and disabilities are able to thrive and make good academic progress.

On a personal level, I have a son who is currently in Year 10 at Beths. I see how Beths has helped shaped my son into a lovely young man, who enjoys education and is excited and prepared for the challenges the next few years will bring him.

Adam Robins

Appointed Governor

Term of Office: 1st September 2022  to 31 August 2026 

I am a previous student of Beths, attending the school between 2002-2009, following which I studied Politics and Modern History at the University of Manchester. Following graduation, I converted to law via the GDL and LPC and trained as a solicitor with Clifford Chance. I subsequently worked at Clifford Chance for five years, before moving to my current firm, Simpson Thacher and Bartlett. I specialise in regulatory matters, with a focus on private equity, asset management, financial technology and high-profile mergers & acquisitions/reorganisations for leading clients in the UK, Europe and major global jurisdictions.

My time at Beths was instrumental in creating the foundation for my further education and career, as well as providing me with lifelong friends. I am keen to be able to give back and contribute to the future of the school, and ensure that Beths remains in a strong position academically and financially, as well as offering a community which values students, parents and teachers, and in which those stakeholders actively participate.

As a new governor, I am excited to join the Governing Body and play a role in shaping the future of Beths, as well as maintaining and enhancing the quality of experience that I was able to enjoy as a student.

Justin Zarb

Parent Governor

Term of Office: 13 February 2023 to 12 February 2027

 

Kim Sangster

Staff Governor
Term of Office: 21 September 2012 to 20 September 2027

Human Resources Committee

I have been a full-time member of staff since 2002 and am currently the Learning Resource Centre, IAG and Cover Manager, having previously been the Examinations Officer. I am a staff governor, currently serving on the Human Resources committee, but have previously served on both Finance and Students committees. Prior to joining Beths as a member of staff, I was a parent of a student at the school and served as Vice-Chair of the Parents Association and also as a Parent Governor.

 

Dan Nimmons

Term of Office: 8 June 2023 - 7 June 2027 

I was a student at Beths between 2002-2009 and thoroughly enjoyed my time at the school. After leaving Beths, I studied Business Management with Marketing at Brighton University. Beths provided me with the foundations and personal qualities to support my further education and benefit starting a career.  I am currently a police sergeant working for the Metropolitan Police, where I have now served for nine years. During my policing career to date, I have worked in multiple roles, including frontline response work, neighbourhood policing and intelligence. I believe my experience of community work will greatly benefit the school, helping to shape the future of the school and to make the school a safe place for all students.

 As a previous student, I have many fond memories of my time at the school and was fortunate enough to form many friendships that I still hold close. I feel it is my duty to now give back to the school, ensuring that current students are given the same level of education that I was lucky to receive from Beths. I am looking forward to getting started as a trustee, making sure that Beths holds strong values and maintains high standards for many more years to come. 

 

Ben Hamilton 

Term of Office: 8 June 2023 - 7 June 2027

 

 

 

 

Chris Brauer

Term of Office: 8 June 2023 - 7 June 2027

 

Geoff Webdale

Clerk to the Governors

 

 

 

 

Past Trustee Board Members

 

Monika Pempyte

Parent Governor

Term of Office: 22 November 2021 to 31 December 2022

 

Theresa Tolhurst

Staff Governor​
Term of Office: 8 October 2018 to 17 August 2022 

I have been recently appointed as Staff Governor.  I joined Beths in September 2012 having worked as a Business Lecturer in West Kent College for 3 years.  Since arriving at Beths, I have experienced roles in a pastoral capacity as both a Form Tutor and Assistant Head of Year, and in a teaching capacity as the GCSE Economics Co-ordinator and now as The Head of Department of the Business Education Department.  I teach a range of subjects within the department, both Key stage 4 and 5, including Accounting, Economics and Business Studies.  My role also includes the Enterprise Co-ordinator which involves planning and managing enterprise facilities for all year groups throughout the year.

I applied to be considered as the Staff Governor as I believe I have many attributes and skills which could help develop the strategic direction of our community at Beths.  I would like the opportunity to make a difference and aim to ensure that our main objective is to develop our students and provide them with the opportunity to receive the best education possible.  I look forward to representing the staff within the governing body and echo the school’s ethos and culture, taking these into consideration when making strategic change and implementing decisions for our school.

Tessie Espindola

Appointed Governor
Term Commenced: 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2021

Joint Vice Chair of Governors; Finance Committee

A newly appointed Joint Vice Chair of the Governing Board and at present I serve as a member of the Finance Committee. I attended a Grammar School outside of the Borough of Bexley, experiences that led me strongly to believe that in order to enable every child to reach their full potential, the School must apply its resources effectively and efficiently.

I studied Law at King’s College London and qualified as a Barrister in 1999. After working at PricewaterhouseCoopers, Royal Bank of Scotland, Citibank, and FCE Bank plc (Ford Credit Europe), where I specialised in consumer credit, insurance and data protection, I now work for a Fin Tech start up in London where supporting and developing ideas and processes in a smaller organisation has given me an insight and experience which I can bring to Governor discussions and better support the SLT.

I have two children, the eldest in his second year at Beths. Outside work, I am involved with the Lewisham and Greenwich Woodcraft Folk, as well as playing tennis (not very well) at Bexley Tennis Club.

 

Olu Obafaiye

Parent Governor

Term of Office: 22 November 2017 to 21 November 2021

Students Committee

I have been residing in Bexley Council for almost fifteen years, since November 2003.  I holds a B.Sc. (Hons) Mechanical Engineering, and Masters in Business Administration (MBA). I have been in a managerial role for almost ten years in the public sector, and during this period I have gained a vast knowledge and experience in all areas of business administration and management. Presently I work as a manager with London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham in Environmental Services Department.

I have also gained some skills over the years from carrying out volunteering roles as a Secretary to the Board of Trustees of a charitable organisation, and as a Church Administrator. In addition, I am one of the Neighbourhood Co-ordinators in Erith Park, a Committee Member of Bexley Borough Neighbourhood Watch Association; and also the Vice Treasurer of Beths Parents’ Association.

I am currently sponsoring the education of a boy in East Africa through partnership with a charitable organisation called World Vision UK; and also I am of one of their Ambassadors in UK to promote their good works and image. 

I strongly believe a good and effective governing body is very vital to a school’s success and performance. I became a parent governor because it is a wonderful way to support my local community and it is an opportunity to make a real and positive difference to the life chances of children by giving up your time and skills for a worthy cause. Our children are our future, by investing time and efforts on them will offer a variety of positive outcomes – not just to the community but to the nation as a whole. I want to make a real difference to the life chances of students and the school’s success by making myself available, and to use my time, skills and experience for this great and wonderful cause. I like to relax and chill by reading, watching detective movies and playing chess.

Attendance 2024-25

Trustee Meetings

Chair is in bold italics.

	FGB	FGB	FGB	FGB
Mr M. Appleby
Mr R.J. Blyghton
Mr J. Brock
Mrs C. Guest
Mr B Hamilton
Mr D Nimmons
Mr B. Ojomo
Dr M. Pack
Mr M. Pack
Ms C. Palmer
Ms M Pemptye
Mr R. Ramsay
Mr Robins
Ms K Sangster
Mr J Zarb

Student Meetings

Chair is in bold italics.

	Students 16/10/24	Students	Students
Mr R.J. Blyghton	Absent
Mr C Brauer	Absent
Mr J Brock	Present
Mrs C. Guest	Absent
Mr D Nimmons	Present
Mr D Ojomo	Present
Dr M. Pack	Present
Ms C. Palmer	Present

 

Finance Meetings

Chair is in bold italics.

	Finance	Finance	Finance
Mr M. Appleby
Mr R.J. Blyghton
Mr J. Brock
Mr B Hamilton
Mr M. Pack
Mr R. Ramsay
Mr A Robins

HR Meetings

Chair is in bold italics.

	HR	HR	HR
Mr R.J. Blyghton
Mr J. Brock
Mrs C. Guest
Mr D Ojomo
Ms C Palmer
Ms M Pemptye
Mr R Ramsay
Mrs K. Sangster
Mr J Zarb

 

Trust AGM Meetings

Chair is in bold italics.

	Trust AGM	Trust AGM	Trust AGM
Mr R.J. Blyghton
Rev J. Bowen
Mr J. Brock
Ms C. Guest
Mr A. Love
Mr C. Hares
Mr S. Mulvaney

Register of Interests for Trustees 2024-2025

Register of Interests for SLT Members 2024-2025

Register of Interests for Beths Finance Team 
2024-2025