Governance
At Linby cum Papplewick C of E Primary School, our Governing Body plays a vital role in supporting and challenging the school to ensure the highest standards of education and wellbeing for all our pupils. Governors work closely with the Headteacher and staff to set the strategic direction of the school, monitor performance and ensure resources are used effectively.
Who are we?
Our Governing Body is made up of dedicated volunteers from the local community, parents, and staff. Together, we bring a wide range of skills and experience to help the school thrive.
Our Responsibilities
Governors are responsible for:
- Setting the school’s vision, ethos, and strategic priorities.
- Monitoring educational performance and pupil progress.
- Overseeing financial management and ensuring value for money.
- Supporting and challenging the leadership team to maintain high standards.
Meet Our Governors

Elliott Mizen (Foundation Governor) – Chair of Governors
I’ve been a governor since my children started at Linby cum Papplewick Primary School in 2014, serving as vice chair and now chair of governors. My responsibilities include setting the school’s strategic vision, holding the leadership team to account, and ensuring strong financial oversight. I also act as the link governor for Health & Safety and GDPR, helping to maintain a safe and compliant environment for pupils and staff.
I bring extensive experience in governance, strategic leadership, and stakeholder engagement, alongside strong analytical skills developed through managing complex budgets and projects in my professional career.
Linby cum Papplewick Primary School is a wonderful school with a clear vision to provide a safe, inclusive, and inspiring environment where every child is nurtured, challenged, and encouraged to achieve their full potential. It is a privilege to work with such a dedicated team to make that vision a reality.

Natasha Murray – Co-Headteacher
When I joined the school in 2022, I became part of the governing body, and together we have been on an exciting journey of growth and development. Our governors play a vital role in the life of the school, acting as a ‘critical friend’ – providing supportive challenge and helping us to keep moving forward. Education is a continuous journey, and we are fortunate to be guided and strengthened by the experience and commitment of our governing body.

Helen Cannon (Foundation Governor) – Admissions Link Governor
My background is in Recruitment, HR and Events Management. The bulk of my career has been in executive level recruitment both for permanent and interim positions into the public sector. In addition I was a graduate recruiter in a national law firm, a HR manager in a hotel group and have had many years experience of event management. I was asked to join the governing body in 2021 as a foundation governor via St Michael’s church where I play an active role in leading the pre school play group little lambs.
I have two children at the school now both in KS2 and I am invested in supporting (and challenging) the school at a strategic level to help it continually improve. I take the Governor lead on recruitment, training and admissions.

Rev. Trevor Raaff (Foundation Ex Officio)- Christian Distinctiveness Link Governor and well-being Link Governor
I am Trevor and the priest from the local church (St Michael’s and St James’ Church) attached to the school. I started off working-life as an accountant and retrained as a priest. Over the years (before retraining to serve in the Church of England), I helped out with children’s and youth ministry. My heart is to see children, families and staff thrive in body, mind and spirit.






