Springhead Primary has a Local Advisory Board (LAB), which serves as our local governing body.

Some responsibilities from the Children’s First Learning Partnership (CFLP) are delegated to the LAB, a selection of which are detailed below as the role of the local advisory board.

The Role of the Local Advisory Board

The LAB plays a vital part in ensuring that Springhead Primary provides the highest possible standard of education and care for all pupils. Its responsibilities include:

  • Promoting high standards of achievement, ensuring that all pupils attend a successful school that supports both their learning and their well‑being.
  • Being consulted and informed about the school’s vision, ethos and long‑term strategic direction.
  • Holding school leaders to account for the educational performance of the school and outcomes for pupils.
  • Contributing to clear priorities and targets that drive school improvement.
  • Ensuring all children, including those with special educational needs or who are disadvantaged, have access to a high‑quality, broad and balanced curriculum.
  • Ensuring the school operates within approved MAT and school‑based policies.
  • Understanding the school’s financial performance and ensuring public funds are spent effectively.
  • Receiving information about the school budget, including how the Pupil Premium and Sports Grant funding is allocated.
  • Representing the views of all stakeholders, ensuring consultation with parents, pupils, staff and the community at least annually.
  • Strengthening relationships with the local community, ensuring that the school remains outward‑facing and well‑connected.

LAB Membership, Roles and Link Responsibilities

Name Role Link Responsibility
Mr A. Jones Headteacher  
Mrs H. Nicholls Staff Representative  
Mr T. Barnes Co‑opted Governor and Chair Safeguarding
Mr C. Salt Parent Governor and Vice Chair Health and Safety
Mrs C. Neeson Parent Governor Inclusion
Mrs S. Honeysett Co‑opted Governor Curriculum
Mrs R. McIntyre Co-opted Governor  

 

LAB Pen Portraits

Mr A. Jones (Headteacher)

Mr Jones was appointed Headteacher at Springhead Primary School in September 2025. He began his teaching career in Ashbourne, Derbyshire, before moving to Milton Primary Academy in Stoke-on-Trent. He has since held a range of senior leadership roles, including Assistant Headteacher, Deputy Headteacher and, most recently, Head of School. He has a strong passion for curriculum design and has extensive experience supporting primary schools across Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire and the West Midlands, particularly in science, curriculum development and assessment. He was also previously designated as a Specialist Leader of Education (SLE) for science, mathematics and assessment.

Mr Jones holds an MA in Educational Leadership from the University of Chester in 2022, alongside a Postgraduate Certificate in Professional Development and Educational Leadership at the University of Derby in 2021. HE also serves as Co-Chair of Governors on a shared local advisory committee for two middle schools in Staffordshire and is committed to working closely with pupils, staff, parents, governors and colleagues across the Trust to provide the highest quality of education for every child.

 

Mrs H. Nicholls (Staff Representative)

Mrs Nicholls has worked at Springhead Primary School for over 20 years, gaining extensive experience across both Key Stage 1 and Key Stage 2, particularly in Years 2–4. She leads Key Stage 1 and is a Year 3 class teacher, supporting pupils and staff in achieving high standards of teaching and learning. She is part of the senior leadership team and contributes to shaping the school’s ethos and strategic direction. Alongside this role, she is the school’s Maths and Music Champion. She has a strong interest in developing pupils’ confidence and progress in mathematics, as well as fostering creativity through music.

As a staff governor, Mrs Nicholls brings a thorough understanding of the school community and curriculum and is committed to supporting the continued success and development of all pupils at Springhead.

 

Mr T. Barnes (Chair of Govenors and Safeguarding Link)

Awaiting publication

 

Mr C. Salt (Vice-Chair of Govenors and Health and Safety Link)

Mr Salt became a parent governor after expressing his interest when a vacancy arose, as he has two children currently attending the school. He has over 20 years’ experience working on critical construction projects in a design and technical capacity, primarily within highly regulated sectors such as pharmaceutical, life sciences and nuclear. In his leadership role, he prioritises safety, compliance and attention to detail, ensuring that teams follow correct procedures and feel confident to raise any concerns. Mr Salt is also trained as a mental health first aider and inclusivity ally, enabling him to support colleagues and promote a positive and supportive working environment. 

As a governor, he contributes to the school by supporting health and safety improvements, auditing policies and offering professional insight. He values the opportunity to be part of the school’s journey and to see the positive impact of ongoing developments. Outside of work, he enjoys hiking, visiting new places and spending quality time with his children.

 

Mrs C. Neeson (Parent Govenor and Inclusion Link)

Awaiting publication

 

Mrs S. Honeysett (Co-opted Governor and Curriculum Link)

Awaiting publication

 

Mrs R. McIntyre (Co-opted Governor)

Awaiting publication

 

Terms of office and more information about our local advisory board members can be found using the 'Get Information About School (GIAS)' page, linked below:

GIAS - Springhead
(LAB Membership)

 

How the LAB Carries Out Its Role

The LAB meets twice each term, usually in the evening. During these meetings, members:

  • Receive reports from the headteacher and staff
  • Reflect on the work of the school and the progress of all pupil groups
  • Discuss curriculum opportunities and provision
  • Agree school development priorities and plans
  • Review the school vision and evaluate progress towards achieving it

We value the experience that LAB members bring to school life, and their visits to school are always welcomed. Members are not expected to be experts in their link areas, but they are encouraged to take an active interest and stay informed.

Engaging with the School Community

In addition to their formal duties, the Local Advisory Board aims to build strong and positive relationships with:

  • Pupils and all staff
  • Parents and carers
  • The wider local community

Contact the Local Advisory Board

The Chair of the LAB, Mr T. Barnes, can be contacted at:
📧 governor-barnes@cflptrust.co.uk