Governor - Pen Portraits

Mark Robinson (Chair of Governors)

Occupation: Barrister

Mark Robinson Hello and a very warm welcome to the Governor’s page of the Lythe School website. I became a parent Governor here in July 2021 and now serve as a co-opted Governor. I became the Chair of Governors in September 2021, and I feel very fortunate to have two children in school who are benefitting from the excellent education, experiences and wonderful teaching and support staff that Lythe School has on offer. Outside of my role as school governor I am a Barrister – except on a Friday when I very much enjoy indulging my first passion, which is farming!

I consider it a privilege to have been able to steer the school throughout my time as Chair and am constantly grateful for the support and dedication of my fellow governors. We are all very excited to be looking to the future with Mr Wood as our Headteacher and on the firm foundations of our recent successful Ofsted inspection. Our whole school community is very lucky in a number of ways. We are very proud of our extensive offer of outdoor education that takes in our beautiful surroundings of the beach and countryside and this is facilitated by the children being able to jump in our own minibus in order to take full advantage (do give us a wave when you see us out and about). All of our staff in all parts of the school are dedicated to engaging our children in our tailored curriculum and we are proud of the close links between the school and our families, whose support we are always grateful for. Nowhere is this better demonstrated than through our Friends of Lythe School (FOLS) group, who arrange a number of fundraising events and who financially support lots of things for the children, from the summer fair to leavers hoodies – do please contact FOLS through the school office if you would like to be involved.

All of our governors are invested in their roles and are regularly in school for Local Authority Advisor visits, to support the children with their learning, to go out and help on trips and just to be a presence in and around the school. It is not often that you find a governing body that know the children so well and who are so well known to the children. My fellow governors and I will always make ourselves available should there be anything that any of our families or prospective families need, so please do contact me by email or through the school office if there is anything you wish to discuss. If you would like to visit the school, please contact the school office and see how your child could let their light shine here at Lythe!

Sue Metcalfe (Vice Chair and Safeguarding Governor)

Occupation: Retired Teacher

I first became a Governor in 1994 while teaching in a Primary School in Loftus. I taught across the age range for 37 years retiring in 2012. It was a great honour working with many amazing children, parents and colleagues during my career.

I became a Governor at Lythe after my retirement. This role has changed considerably during my time in education. I felt able and keen to contribute as a Governor because of my many years working in the school environment. I passionately believe all children whatever their needs deserve the best education!

Lythe is a very special school where all children are nurtured and offered an exciting and challenging curriculum. Being a Governor gives me the opportunity to be part of their special journey, this is an honour.

Sheila Sloan (Co-opted Governor)

Occupation: Retired Teacher

I became a Co-opted governor at Lythe School in July 2021. I live in the catchment and have had an association with the school since 1988 when my elder daughter joined, followed in 1991 by my younger daughter.

I taught in Caedmon School from 1989 until my retirement in 2009 and I have continued my interest in education since. I have grandchildren in school and want to work together with staff, governors and parents to ensure that all children in school have a safe and happy environment in which to learn and to reach their full potential. I am supportive of the curriculum and especially of the excellent outdoor learning and enrichment that takes place at Lythe.

I love reading and theatre and enjoy travelling and am active in community events. I feel privileged be part of Lythe Governing Body and to do what I can to help the school grow and excel.

Beth Dobson (Staff Governor)

Occupation: Teacher

I became staff governor in April 2025, after joining Lythe Primary school in April 2024 as class teacher. After spending a year at the school, the opportunity of staff governor arose, and I felt this was a great way to get to know the school even more and experience being part of the governing body.

I became staff governor as I wanted to develop my understanding of the running of a primary school. I also feel passionate about all pupils flourishing in a nurturing and enabling environment. The opportunity of staff governor also appealed to myself as it allows me to experience a different role in school and develop professionally.

Away from school, I love being outside and on the go; on a nice summer evening you will often find me cycling or out walking. Living on our family dairy farm also means you can often find me amongst the animals or at young farmer’s meetings. I also enjoy spending time with friends or family.

Sarah Prudom

Occupation: Teacher (in another local authority)

I became a Parent Governor in June 2023 because I enjoy working with the school to support their outcomes. I am enthusiastic about providing pupils with an enriching and inspiring curriculum so that all pupils have the opportunity to thrive. I enjoy being part of the Lythe community and feel passionate about the local area and utilising it to the maximum.

I have two children who attend the school and I enjoy spending my spare time with them and making memories. I also enjoy walking my dog and reading (when I get chance).