Markyate Village School And Nursery

Governors Who's Who

Dr Victoria Horsnall - Chair of Governors

I have been the Chair of Governors since September 2021. My involvement with Markyate Village School was as a parent when my children attended up until July 2020.

My responsibilities within the Governing Body include working on the Finance Committee that has an overview of the school's budget, the plans for the school premises and for personnel. I also have a particular focus on Early Years, so I work with the Nursery and Reception team to help develop the Early Years provision in the school.

Andrew Gilbert - Vice Chair of Governors

I have two children in the school who have very much enjoyed their time so far at MVS. I have lived in the local area all my life and moved to Markyate in 2016, just before my eldest began Reception. I qualified as a financial advisor in 2002 and have worked in financial services for the past 20 years on both a personal and corporate level. My responsibilities within the governing body are primarily within the finance committee and health and safety. In my spare time, I enjoy playing golf and the occasional game of cricket.

Mrs Rosie Hudson - School Governor

I have been working at Markyate Village School as an HLTA for three years and have spent the majority of this time working with the Year 6 children, and providing cover for teachers across the school. I am currently training to be a qualified teacher, due to complete my training in 2025. My previous work was as a dancer and dance teacher and I have always loved working with children; so once I had had my own two children, I decided to complete my teacher training. I feel very passionately about the well-being of children and therefore very much look forward to continuing to support the ethos of Markyate Village School by being a part of the governing body.

Jacqualyn Rumsey - Parent Governor I have one child at Markyate School and have worked in education for over 20 years. I have taught from Nursery to Year Six, worked as a deputy head, safeguarding lead and as a qualified SENDCo. I have recently qualified as a Level 5 SPLD (Specific Learning Difficulties) teacher. I have a passion for inclusion and ensuring that children have the best possible experience at school. I currently work for the Speech Language Communication and Autism Team for County. You may also have seen me at FOMS fundraising events. When I have any spare time, I love walking, running (or rather trotting along!) and reading.

Rebecca Wells - Co-opted Governor

My name is Rebecca Wells (Becky). I moved to Markyate in 2014 and my daughter attended the school from September 2015 until July 2022, we both loved our experience of the school. I was also part of the Parent Council before my daughter left.

Professionally, I work for Hertfordshire County Council in the department of Adult Care Services, where I have been for the last 25 years. My expertise is working with and supporting adults with disabilities including learning disabilities, autism, and people with a mental health diagnosis. I am passionate about positive behaviour support and bringing out the best in people, enabling them to achieve their goals, aspirations, improving self-esteem and overall wellbeing.

When I get some free time, I like to travel to the South Coast, take walks by the sea and have quality time with family.

I joined the Governing Board in February of 2023 as a co-opted Governor.

Mr Allan Maher - Associate Governor

I have two children at Markyate; one in Key Stage 1 and one in Key Stage 2. Both have had excellent experiences during their time at school and are happy and secure here. I became involved with the governing body in 2024 as I wanted to help the school in its journey, continuing to develop and grow so that all of the children get the best possible deal.

Professionally, I am the Headteacher of another primary school in Hertfordshire and, as such, feel that I am well placed to provide knowledge, experience and support to the school's leadership team. I am also the leader of a local Scout Group and so understand how the school can work with the community.

In my spare time, I enjoy travelling and exploring new places with my family, walks with the dog around the local area and an occasional spot of sailing!

Miss Jo Bifolco - Parent Governor

I started my career in education 16 years ago, teaching a vocational subject at a Pupil Referral Unit in Watford. I am now in my fourth year at a local secondary school, as a Student & Family Support Worker and Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead. I have firsthand experience in secondary transition, pastoral support and safeguarding.

I now only have one child at Markyate Village School, in Year 2, as my eldest has just moved into secondary.

Markyate Village School has given so much to both my children and now I’d like to give something back.

Mrs Julie Raybould Clerk to the Governors