All Saints'

Kathleen Bengston : Hello, my name is Kathleen Bengston and I am one of the governors of St. Joseph’s School. I have lots of experience in school governorship, having been governor of several schools for over 20 years. I have always been interested in education, the way children learn and teachers teach, and I believe as educators, we (parents, teachers and governors) need to work together to help the children in our school achieve their fullest potential. We all learn in different ways and teachers teach in different ways. My vision as a governor is greatly influenced by this and so I work to promote a broad balanced curriculum which is accessible to all, allowing children and staff to achieve success in a happy, caring environment. I strongly believe in Catholic education and the way it develops not only the faith and spiritual aspect of our nature, but also the caring, nurturing side. It develops how we see our role in the world through practical application of the gospel values by caring for our world and each other. I find education fascinating, so I am delighted to be part of St Joseph’s School and look forward to being part of its future development.

Anne Twine : I was invited to become a temporary Governor of St. Joseph’s during a difficult time for the school. As an existing Governor of St. John Boste Primary School, I was reluctant to take on more responsibility, however, I thoroughly enjoyed that first year, meeting the pupils and staff and getting to know the school which I had never been in before. It was such a pleasure to witness at first hand the progress and sense of achievement, so I volunteered to return. I am a retired teacher of English and Drama, now a published author of local novels, written mainly for teenagers. Encouraging teenagers to read, particularly boys, is a passion of mine. My hope is that all pupils find pleasure, contentment and safety in school as they plan their futures and confidence and the support they need. I have two cheerful, happy and successful sons, three grandsons and twin granddaughters who will move to St. Robert’s soon. I am happiest and at my best walking through the woods or along the riverside with my beloved dog. Peace, fresh air and exercise – bliss!

Ross Topping: Hi, my name is Ross Topping and I am the Parent Governor St Joseph’s School. I have worked in the education sector for the past fifteen year, starting as a Sports Coach before transitioning into a Classroom Teacher and now Assistant Headteacher. I believe in making a positive and lasting impression on children and do this through an enthusiastic, passionate and dedicated approach. Helping others is rooted in my character and it gives me great satisfaction to watch children and schools succeed. I have a strong belief that every child has their own identity and as educators or governors we should strive to deliver bespoke settings and curriculums which are accessible to all. My purpose and hope as a governor is to have as much influence as possible on the education and nurture of every child at St Josephs. I am delighted to be in a position to do this and hopefully help drive the school forward.

Kelly Gray: I was asked to become a foundation Governor by Deacon Frank O’Neil from my parish church, Our Lady Immaculate. Myself and both my children attended St Joseph’s school. I was previously a Governor for 4 years at St Joseph’s when my children attended. I am very privileged to be asked to undertake the role again. I play an active role within the church and am very interested to see how the Catholic ethos is taught within primary schools and the values it instills in the children. I work at Sunderland City Council as a Social Care, Financial Assessment Officer , primarily dealing with elderly clients.  I have 2 children, a son aged 20 who is currently studying at Leeds University and a daughter aged 16 who is studying A-levels at St Roberts 6th form.  Both my children enjoyed their time at St Joseph’s and I am very much looking forward to taking an active role within the school in my Governing role.