Governance

My name is Hannah, and I have been vicar of St Peter's Church in Monkseaton since 2021. I live here in Monkseaton with my husband, little girl, and a spaniel. I have been a governor at Monkseaton Middle School since spring of 2022, and Chair of Governors since September 2022. I am also a governor at Appletree Gardens First School.

I grew up in the north-east, but have studied and worked variously in Oxfordshire, Durham, and most recently Cambridgeshire. Ever since I was ordained (now more than 15 years ago), I have been involved in schools and have previously been a governor both in Church of England maintained primary schools, and in the independent sector. Being a governor is a good way of really getting to know a school and serve it and through it the wider community, and is very rewarding. Some of it is very serious - for instance, I am the safeguarding link governor and there is nothing more important than keeping our children safe - but it can also be great fun. It is wonderful seeing our amazing young people thriving and achieving in so many different ways.

My ideal day off is a long walk, tea and cake, and then a good book.

I am Duncan Phin, a dedicated professional with over 15 years of experience in analytics, culture, and engagement. As a father to a teenage child, I understand the importance of balancing professional commitments with personal responsibilities, which has significantly shaped my empathetic and nurturing approach in all my endeavors.

My professional journey is marked by extensive work with the Northern Learning Trust, where I have volunteered for over a decade. In this role, I have been instrumental in fostering strong connections between the business sector and educational institutions. My efforts have not only bridged gaps but also created opportunities for mutual growth and development. Through my work, I have facilitated numerous partnerships that have enriched the educational landscape, providing students with real-world insights and experiences that enhance their learning journeys.

With a strong foundation in analytics, I excel at interpreting complex data to drive strategic decisions. My expertise in this area has been pivotal in implementing effective solutions that improve organizational culture and boost employee engagement. My analytical acumen, combined with my ability to foster a positive and inclusive work environment, has consistently led to enhanced performance and productivity within the teams I have led.

I am passionate about leveraging my extensive knowledge and experience to help schools grow and develop. I believe that by applying analytical rigor and fostering a culture of engagement, educational institutions can significantly improve their outcomes. My commitment to this cause is reflected in my proactive approach to mentoring and collaborating with educators and administrators, always striving to create a supportive and dynamic learning environment.

I have lived in Whitley Bay for 35 years. I am a retired high school Science teacher. I have three adult children who were educated in the Whitley Bay pyramid and two grandsons at a local primary school. I was a parent governor when my children were at high school and served for 10 years as a Local Authority governor in a high school in the borough until recently.

I identify strongly with the ethos of Monkseaton Middle school and the way in which they seek to serve the wider needs of children in their local community. I am dismayed by the inequality I see growing all around me and am keen to do what I can to ensure children get what they need to thrive and find their place in the world.

I am also interested in curriculum development and, through that, broadening the horizons of our young people and helping to raise their aspirations.

In my spare time I am happiest helping to look after my grandsons and walking the family dogs.