Beaumont Leys



Pen Portraits

Liz Warren – Local Authority Governor – Vice Chair of Governors

I relocated from Kent in 2012 to become Strategic Lead for the Primary Headteachers in Leicester. This involves, amongst other roles, working with schools and partner organisations in Children’s Services. I often work alongside my counterpart in the Secondary sector.

I have been in Primary Education for most of my career, as class teacher, SEN specialist and then Headteacher at three schools. As a Local Leader of Education I supported schools in their improvement journey and was deployed by the Local Authority in Kent as an Additional Governor to support weaker Governing Bodies. I was a Vice-Chair of a group of primary and secondary schools that worked together in an Excellence Partnership.

My own interests are currently finding my way around Leicestershire with my husband, by way of walks and pubs, and enjoying being able to access facilities and family that come from being based on the middle of the country. Our two children are grown up after their very different paths through their education.

I enjoy being a Governor at a secondary school, with a taste of the challenges and joys involved, and feel that my own background allows me to bring a range of skills to support the Leadership team and Governors at Beaumont Leys as the school becomes outstanding.

Phil Wood - Chair of the Governing Body - Co-Opted

I am currently the vice-chair of the Governing Body having joined the Governing Body in 2011. I am currently a Senior Lecturer in Education at the School of Education, University of Leicester, with an interest in how we learn. This allows me the privilege to visit and work with many schools and colleges in the region.

Before coming to the university I spent 10 years teaching Geography, Geology and Philosophy in secondary schools in Lincolnshire. I now work with international students at both masters and doctorate level, developing new insights into classroom practice, teaching and learning. My other great passion is Leicester Tigers rugby club which I’ve followed since I was 5 years old.

Hitesh Pandit – Co-Opted

I am a former pupil of the school, local to the area and married with two children, aged 12 and 8. My son started at the school in 2014.

I’m a career auditor, having previously worked in the local government sector and currently work in the financial services sector. I hold professional accountancy and auditing qualifications. Education has always been important to me and I think it’s important the school provides a safe and secure platform for young people to maximise and achieve their educational and career potential.

My work has enabled me to develop knowledge and experience covering a broad range of topics such as board and executive governance; risk management; project management; financial planning and budgetary control. I believe that I contribute to the school governing body by utilising my experience to provide both support and effective challenge.

James Prestwich - Parent Governor

I am a parent governor at the school. Our eldest son and daughter have both attended Beaumont Leys School and our youngest son is currently in Year 11.

I have previously worked in a sales environment before moving into recruitment, I am currently a pastor at a great local church in the city I have many years experience and the privilege of working with people from all different walks of life.

I am passionate about people reaching their full potential. I very much enjoy family life, time with friends and getting plenty of fresh air by either walking, cycling or playing golf.

I have enjoyed being part of the governors team to date, both supporting and providing accountability to the schools current excellent senior leadership team.