Our School Governors play a vital role in your child's Education. They are strategic leaders who support us in all aspects of our work.

Emneth Nursery School Governors-Who are they?

Claire Hooker-Head teacher

I have been a qualified teacher for 17 years now and have taught a range of year groups from nursery to year 6, but my real passion is for early years. I completed a degree in Early Childhood studies at Northampton University and then went on to do a PGCE at Norwich University in order to get my teaching qualification. I have worked at Emneth School for 6 years now and I love it! I have lived in Norfolk all of my life and I have two very active boys aged 13 and 10, as well as a crazy dog. I enjoy listening to music, watching theatre shows and going for walks along the coast. 

Sarah Fairbrother- Chair

I joined as a governor in February 2019 and am now Chair of Governors. I attended Emneth Nursery School when I was a child and my daughter previously attended the nursery school. I am a director and solicitor specialising in family law at Ward Gethin Archer solicitors. I have previously been a trustee of both Relate Derbyshire and Relate Norfolk and Suffolk. I have a keen interest in fundraising and hope to be able to support the nursery in raising extra funds to be able to give the children the best experiences at nursery possible

Karen Archibald - Vice Chair

My name is Karen Archibald, I’m Vice Chair and I currently have a little boy who attends the Nursery. My little girl attended from the age of 7 months and left in July to attend school. I work full time as a teaching Deputy Head at an infant school and have worked in Education for 12 years. I have a keen interest and knowledge of early years provision and aim to give back to our local community as much as possible. I feel that by being a Governor, and member of the Friends of Emneth Nursery Group, I can support the Nursery in providing the best possible care alongside wonderful enrichment activities as possible for our fantastic little ones currently attending Emneth Nursery and in the future. 

Francine Finnis 

I have joined the governors board as my son is going to the nursery and I wanted to get more involved in making an impact on providing young children with a positive start in to their educational route. In my day-to-day job I oversee the management of commercial properties for a large investment company and feel that my skill set will benefit the governors board. 

Karen Reilly

I have recently taken early retirement following working in the childcare industry for over 30 years. During this time, I had various positions ranging from managing Preschools and Full day care to working in an advisory role supporting other childcare providers. 

I have a passion for early years and I understand the importance of providing the best possible outcomes for children and feel as a governor I can strategically support this. 

I enjoy walking my dogs, running and being outdoors, so I am looking forward to having time to do some gardening.  

Melissa Bancroft-Turner

I am grateful to have been appointed as a Local Authority Governor in July 2023 and I am looking forward to working alongside staff to provide excellent early years education at Emneth Nursery School. I am a qualified primary school teacher and teach Reception as well as co-ordinate SEN provision. I enjoy going on adventures and have volunteered abroad in Ghana and Cambodia. I also enjoy visiting beaches and having afternoon tea with my friends and family.

Stephanie Wilson

I have joined the governance board as my son currently attends Emneth Nursery. I’d like to support the team in continuing to achieve the highest standard and quality of care possible to the children who attend. I'm also keen to contribute to raising funds through friends of Emneth Nursery group. I currently work supporting individuals to live independently and ensuring they have the best opportunities and experience possible. Previously I worked a variety of general manager roles with experience I believe will support the board.

Hannah Welcher

Emneth Nursery School has been part of my family’s education for 3 generations with my daughter now enjoying her time there. I joined the governors board to be able to contribute to the continuous development of the organisation, ensuring it remains an outstanding place for children to thrive in their early years of education. I am a registered physiotherapist but now work for NHS England in a system co-ordination role which involves providing support, monitoring performance, planning and providing assurance for NHS trusts. I also play hockey for Wisbech Town Hockey Club and have been on the club’s committees for over 10 years helping with the day to day running of the club and organising fundraising events.