John joined the LGB in January 2023. John worked in IT consulting for 35 years before retiring in 2015, since then he has enjoyed the freedom to pursue his own interests in technology, and to cycle, windsurf and practise taiji. He started working with primary schools running Code Clubs in 2017, and was introduced to New Town Primary School as part of that endeavour. With an ex-teacher partner and a daughter who teaches, John well appreciates the challenges facing all educators, in respect of both curriculum and pastorally, and is keen to support the school’s diverse and inclusive intake, especially in STEM.

If you would like to contact the Chair, please telephone or email the school office, or write to him C/O the below address.

01189 375509 or admin@newtown.reading.sch.uk

New Town Primary School, School Terrace, Reading, RG1 3LS

Polly Cornish joined New Town Primary School firstly as a Deputy Headteacher in 2014, and has brought the school successfully out of special measures since that time, initially in the role of Head of School, then as Headteacher since 2018. Polly is immensely proud to lead New Town, and to be part of the amazing school family here which has over doubled in size in the last few years as the school has improved. She champions the most vulnerable pupils and groups, values the rich diversity of the East Reading community, and roots her leadership in the school values of love and kindness.

Angie is a highly experienced LGB member, trustee and governance consultant. She first came to New Town in 2015, when Reading Borough Council asked her to be part of the strategic team working to turn things around after the school went into Special Measures. When it came out of Special Measures and joined Berkshire Schools Trust (BST) in March 2016, she became its chair of governors, leaving in 2020 to chair BST’s trustee board. She was delighted to be asked to return in December 2022 and over the last year has focused on building the LGB and broadening its diversity and skills base. As well as LGB recruitment and development, her responsibilities at New Town include safeguarding, attendance, children we care for and staff and pupil wellbeing.

Chris joined the LGB in February 2023, having previously been a member of the Berkshire Schools Trust board. His experience in education comes mainly from a career in Further Education working at Reading College, where he started as a science and engineering teacher and went on to manage curriculum development more widely with a particular interest in developing the core skills of Maths and English. He also served on the Management Committee of Cranbury College, the local authority pupil referral unit, acting as Chair for two years. He has been connected with youth work and voluntary action in Newtown since his days as a university student and is presently editor of the local community magazine, NEWT.

Rachelle joined New Town Primary School’s LGB in May 2023. She is currently Director of Communications at Peel Hunt, a specialist investment bank focusing on UK mid cap and growth companies. She has over 16 years’ experience in marketing and events roles working both in house and agency. She is a member of the management committee and the Chair of the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion forum at Peel Hunt. Rachelle is passionate about DE&I and ensuring all children are given the opportunity to thrive.

Kate joined New Town in October 2018 originally as the Assistant Headteacher, having previously worked in two other Reading primary schools, specialising in teaching Early Years pupils. She loves the diverse cultural make up of the pupils and their families at New Town, who are enthusiastic and bring a wealth of experiences. Kate enjoys working as part of a team to continually improve the school and the fact that no day is the same. She has a passion for phonics and its part in teaching reading and writing. She has been the school's Deputy Headteacher since 2022.

Joined the LGB in October 2023. Lyuba has over 18yrs of experience working in different fields of mental health care. They currently works as a Mental Health Practitioner in primary healthcare, as well as a specialist mental health mentor for university students. They also serve as a Lay member for the college of optometry and part-time Care Quality Commission Inspector for mental health. Lyuba has a passion and long-standing commitment for promoting and supporting mental health and wellbeing for young people.

Hamood joined the LGB in February 2025. He is currently working as an Audit Senior Manager in Deloitte LLP. He has a comprehensive understanding of audit engagements, leading and overseeing all stages for a diverse range of clients. He's adept at ensuring compliance with auditing standards and regulatory requirements and prioritises building and maintaining strong client relationships. He believes in fostering a supportive environment that promotes growth.

Dave joined the LGB in January 2026. He joined the Berkshire schools Trust in 2017 and was with New Town from 2019 until 2025 as their Finance Manager. He has extensive experience in Finance, having qualified as an ACMA, Associate Qualified Management Accountant in 2000. Dave lives locally and recently retired from ODST in August 2025. During his career he has worked for a variety of large-scale Oil and Engineering companies, like Chevron, Texaco and Jacobs. He also brings 12 years’ experience as a school LGB member at Geoffrey Field Juniors and Reading Girls. He enjoys sitting down with a good book and playing guitar in a Reading-based Rock Band and can often be found playing local venues in and around Berkshire/Hampshire.