Meet the staff at our school
Mrs Lisa Hobby
Head Teacher
DSL
I have been a teacher since 1990 and I have had the privilege of being the Head of Ashurst Wood since January 2011. I started teaching in Oxfordshire and I have taught in a variety of schools in Kent and East Sussex. I am passionate about ensuring that children experience a rich curriculum including the arts, sport and forest schools while preparing them for successful futures. I believe that every child has a talent or strength in which they can excel and that they will all forge their own path to success. This looks different for every child and I am proud to work with a dedicated team who understand that every child is an individual. When I get time away from school I enjoy crafts and I have been known to spend my free time making props and costumes for the school show. I visit the cinema regularly and I love gardening. I have most success with roses but I did manage to grow some beetroot this year! I have one daughter who some children may know from when she ran the after school Karate club. Although she is away at University we still enjoy traveling, embracing new experiences and creating lasting memories together.
Mrs Gemma Blake Hatton
Deputy Head Teacher, SENCO & Reception Teacher
Deputy DSL
Hi everybody, my name is Mrs Gemma Blake-Hatton. I have been at Ashurst Wood for 8 years and I have been teaching for 19 years. I am the school Special Educational Needs Coordinator and also Reception/Year 1 teacher and more recently Deputy Head.
Before becoming a teacher, I trained to be an archaeologist and I have excavated old things in Cyprus and Chester.
I have a husband and three children who are 16, 11 and 6, and in my spare time I enjoy running, gardening and doing up old houses! I also love a good dance and when I was younger I used to dance in pantomimes!
I love working at Ashurst Wood, as I love getting to know all the families and children. I enjoy helping them to find the things that make them smile and encouraging their special talents - everybody has one and they are all different!
Mrs Meena Purba
Reception Teacher
My name is Meena Purba and I have been working at Ashurst Wood Primary for 8 years, first as a supply teacher then was lucky enough to be given a permanent role.
I am Mum to 9yr old twin boys called Yuvaan and Dhiren and have a husband called Raj.
I enjoy cooking and feeding people (and eating), watching stand up comedy, socialising with friends and spending time with my boys. At school you will often see me asking for help with Eco related matters. I am also in charge of English and Phonics, R.E and my new role as Mental Health lead.
I love being a Reception Teacher and seeing how much the children progress in the year I have them, as well as the funny stories they tell me!
Mr Ed Gowers
KS2 Teacher
Hey, I’m Ed Gowers. I’ve been teaching Year 6 at Ashurst Wood for three years, where I also serve as deputy safeguarding lead and lead Computing and E4S.
Before my teaching career, I completed a foundation degree in Art & Design. After that, I travelled to places like China, New Zealand, and the USA, gaining invaluable cultural and life experiences. I then worked my way up to a management position in the hospitality industry. Eventually, I returned to university to complete a three-year degree to become a teacher.
My fiancée, Catherine, attended Ashurst Wood, as did her two sisters. Last year, I bought my first house, a fixer-upper, which has kept me busy with DIY projects and sparked a love for gardening. I enjoy various hobbies, with street photography being a current favourite. My brother is also engaged and set to marry next year.
I love teaching at Ashurst Wood because we celebrate uniqueness, and the staff are incredibly inclusive. I enjoy getting to know the children, interacting with them, and building strong relationships. No two days are the same. Year 6 can be tough since I have to say goodbye at the end of the year, but I love hearing about their successes as many come back to share their experiences from secondary school.
Mrs Hayley Davis
KS1 Teacher
my name is Mrs Hayley Davis. I have been at Ashurst Wood for 5 years and I have been teaching for 12 years. I am Key Stage One lead, as well as leading Maths and Science across the school. Many of you would have been used to seeing me in Key Stage 2, but after returning from maternity leave and having my daughter, I have come back into Hawks class and am loving every minute of it!
After completing my degree and before working as a teacher, I was cabin crew with British Airways. I had an amazing time travelling the world and seeing some fantastic sights. This allowed me to experience a broad range of cultures and gain valuable life experience.
I have a husband and three children who are 8, 6, and 15 months. They all keep me very busy when I am not at work! In my spare time I enjoy spending quality time with my family; going on walks, spending time in my garden, and dancing around the kitchen with my children (this is a really good giggle)!
I love teaching at Ashurst Wood as we really are a small school with a big heart. I enjoy my daily interactions with the children, getting to know them on an individual basis and building strong relationships; to me, this is fundamental to teaching. I love hearing the children share their successes, and on occasion being a part of those achievements. Seeing and sharing in these really special moments in teaching is great. For me, teaching is not just a job but my passion; I wish to inspire all children to reach their full potential ready for the next stage in their life, whatever that may be.
Mrs Ilona Sutherland
KS2 Teacher
Mr Joe Haffenden
KS2 Teacher
Mrs Amber Pitcaithly
KS2 Teacher
Ms Caroline Smethurst
Forest School Leader
Miss Sally Edwards
Teaching assistant, Learning Mentor
My name is Sally Edwards. I have worked at school for nearly 10 years now. I started my time here as the Learning Mentor and then went on to be a TA as well. I have recently studied and achieved my Higher Level Teaching Assistant qualification and really enjoy covering classes throughout the school. I love working with all the children in all my different roles.
Before working at the school I worked in Day Nurseries and recruitment. A memorable time in my working life was working in the French Alps as a Crèche Manager where I found my love of skiing and made lifelong friends.
When I'm not at work I love reading, swimming, spending time with my family and holidays! I have 2 children, Edith and Samuel, who are both part of Ashurst Wood School too.
Mrs Tracey Mumford
Teaching assistant
I'm Tracey Mumford
I have been a Teaching Assistant in the reception class at the school since 2008, having worked at the preschool previously for over 10 years. I enjoy working in early years seeing the children learning through play. I have also been lead first aider for several years.
My husband (who works at the local butchers) attended the school, as well as both my son and daughter.
I enjoy spending my spare time with my three grandchildren. I am also a keen amateur artist, drawing colour pencil pet portraits, painting watercolour pictures and cards.
Mrs Shaida Ali-Hazel
Teaching assistant
Hello, my name is Shaida Ali-Hazell. I have worked as a TA at our lovely village school for nearly 7 years. I currently provide additional support to small groups or individual pupils in specific areas of the curriculum (such as reading, phonics or maths), usually in the form of structured interventions. I also provide support in other areas of the school as and when required, and I enjoy working with and getting to know all of the children. Before becoming a TA, I worked in Information Technology.
I am mum to two teenage children, Liam and Sophie, and my husband Simon and I cherish our family time together.
Having grown up in the Caribbean, I absolutely love bright, sunny, and warm days but find cold and grey days less appealing. Hence, some of your children frequently ask why I am always wearing a coat on the playground when no one else is!
Being a somewhat adventurous spirit (when I am feeling brave), I love the thrill of rollercoasters and ziplines. In my spare time, I enjoy making and decorating cakes, cooking, and I'm still trying to find some form of hidden talents in acrylic and watercolour painting! My passion for learning and seeing children's progress and achievements fuels my commitment to education and I enjoy nurturing young minds.
Mrs Lorna Tjong
Teaching Assistant
I am Lorna Tjong and I have worked at Ashurst Wood Primary since 2015. I left briefly for one year, but missed the school so much I came back.
I have worked in KS1 and KS2 and enjoy working with all different age groups. I have worked in education for over 20 years, previously working as an Exhibition Coordinator for City & Guilds and BTEC. I have lived in two other countries – when I was a teenager, I lived in Israel and later on in life I lived in Hong Kong. I have twin boys who are 26 and a gorgeous dog (my boys are gorgeous too ☺). I love spending time with my family, going on dog walks and watching football.
Mrs Katie Stuart
Individual Needs Assistant
Hello everyone, my name is Katie Stuart and I am an Individual Needs Assistant in Hawks class three days a week and currently doing Maths Interventions two afternoons a week in KS2.
I have worked at Ashurstwood School for 4 years now and absolutely love watching the children grow in confidence as they progress through the school. My daughter also attends the school and is now in year 4.
Before joining Ashurstwood I had my own cleaning business for nearly 10 years when my boys were young ( they are now 25 and nearly 21 years old! ) I spent 9 years working as an LSA at the National Centre for Young People with Epilepsy which I loved but left after having my daughter in 2016. I was also a Maternity Care Assistant at the Princess Royal Hospital for a short time.
In my spare time I enjoy walking my dogs Luca and Buster, spending time with my family, reading ( when I get a chance too! ) and watching a good series on Netflix. On a Thursday I have my grandson Cassius who is 18 months and I feel so lucky that I get to have quality Nana time with him.
Miss Ellie Bizios
Teaching Assistant
Mrs Sallyann Card
Teaching assistant
Mrs Katie Bober
Teaching Assistant
Miss Alice Down
Individual Needs Assistant
My name is Alice Down and I am an Individual Needs Assistant in Owls class (am) and Kestrels class (pm). I'm lucky to have worked at school for nearly a full school year now and I've loved every second! Both my children attend the school and so did my Fiancé!
I've had lots of interesting jobs before working here including being a cake maker, an eyelash artist and an apprentice mechanic at Audi. I often get questioned by the children about these jobs!
In my spare time I love to make sweet treats with my children and sit in the garden relaxing with my pet Rabbit - Nardo!
Mrs Helen Leppard
Breakfast Club Supervisor
Mrs Joanne Funnell
After School Club Leader
Ms Debbie Hawe
School Business Manager
Mrs Emma Fish
Office Manager
Hi everyone, my name is Emma Fish and many of you already know me in the school. I have been associated with Ashurst Wood Primary School since September 1998, first as a parent when my eldest daughter started here in Reception and then becoming Chair of the PTFA in 2003. I started working in the school office in January 2008 (much to the dismay of my youngest daughter who was in Year 4 at the time!).
I am married to Nick and have two grown up daughters Charlotte and Daisy. I enjoy reading, socialising and for those who know me well, I do like to shop!
My children very much enjoyed their time at Ashurst Wood and often talk about the wonderful opportunities and the fond memories they shared during their time here. It certainly put them in good stead for the careers they have now.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to pop into the office or send me an email.
Mrs Rhona Doherty
Clerical assistant
My name is Rhona Doherty and I have been working at Ashurst Wood Primary for nearly 6 years. You will see me in the school office on Fridays where I manage the School Fund, do DBS checks and maintain the school website amongst many other things.
I worked in my first school (over 20 years ago) for 7 years before changing career when I gained my BA degree in business. But I realised that working in education was where I was happiest and have since worked in two other schools before finally joining Ashurst Wood Primary.
I am married to Tony and have two grown up children (Chloe and Nick) and four grandchildren (Jenson, Seb, Marina and baby Leo). When I am not helping with my grandchildren I like taking aqua and pilates classes, spending time doing all sorts of crafts – sewing, crochet, art etc. and enjoy going for long walks with my friends.
I love the school environment and the feeling of being part of a team helping to shape young peoples’ lives.
Mrs Clare Jussen
Clerk to the Governors
Hi everyone, my name is Clare Jussen and I am the new Clerk to the Governors at Ashurst Wood Primary School.
As some of you will know I have 2 children at the school and am, like you, passionate that they receive the best education possible, so was delighted when an opportunity arose that allowed me to support the Governors and the school.
I moved to the area during lockdown and have enjoyed exploring West Sussex and becoming familiar with Ashurst Wood and the surrounding areas. In my spare time I enjoy reading, baking, sewing and annoying my husband.
We are always looking for more parent governors so please do not hesitate to talk to me about it if you are interested.
Mrs Teresa Edwards
Cleaner and Midday Supervisor
Hi everyone, my name is Teresa Edwards and many of you already know me in the school. I have been associated with Ashurst Wood Primary School since September 2001, first as a parent when my eldest son Will started here in Reception
I started working as a Midday Meal Supervisor in school when my youngest son Liam started here in 2007 and many years later, I am still here! I have seen a number of children come through the school over the years.
I love spending time walking my dog Maisie and I am also looking forward to welcoming my first granddaughter in July.
Mrs Sue Sargent
Premises Officer
I have lived in the village for 47 years and have been associated with the school since 1991 when my eldest daughter started here. I began working in the kitchen in 1998 and then as a midday meals supervisor. I left in 2000 to look after my niece, returning in 2004 as temp lunch cover when she started school here. I became a permanent midday meals supervisor in 2005, which I continued to do until taking the job of Premises Officer.
I enjoy reading, spending time with my family, especially my 19 month old granddaughter and going out walking with my dog.
Mr Michael Box
Caretaker
Governors
Clare Jussen
Hi everyone, my name is Clare Jussen and I am the new Clerk to the Governors at Ashurst Wood Primary School.
As some of you will know I have 2 children at the school and am, like you, passionate that they receive the best education possible, so was delighted when an opportunity arose that allowed me to support the Governors and the school.
I moved to the area during lockdown and have enjoyed exploring West Sussex and becoming familiar with Ashurst Wood and the surrounding areas. In my spare time I enjoy reading, baking, sewing and annoying my husband.
We are always looking for more parent governors so please do not hesitate to talk to me about it if you are interested.
Nick Hollamby
Hello, my name is Nick Hollamby and I am a parent Governor at the school. I was first appointed in June 2020 and have recently been elected as Vice-Chair. I also Chair the Resources Committee which governs the financial and premises side of the school. I am married to Rachel, have three children who have all attended (or attend) the school and we have lived in Ashurst Wood for almost nine years. I believe that the school is an important part of the village community and became a governor to ensure that it remains so. I am a Chartered Accountant and am the Bursar at Brambletye School. Other than running around after three children, I am a keen sportsman with a particular interest in football, tennis and golf.
Sally Alexander
Hello! My name is Sally Alexander and I have recently been appointed to the governing board at the school. I am a ‘retired’ secondary school English Teacher having worked at Woldingham, Caterham, Berkhamsted Collegiate School and at Hazelwood Prep School, where I was Head of English and one of the Educational Governors.
I am particularly passionate about ensuring every pupil has access to the highest standard of education in an environment that is supportive, inclusive and inspiring, to allow them to flourish. Having lived in the East Grinstead area for the past 20 years, I know how integral Ashurst Wood Primary School is to the community and I feel honoured to be part of the Governing Board helping to take the school successfully into the future, so that it will continue to serve generations of primary-age children to come.
I am married to Scott, and we have two daughters (Charlotte and Harriet) who are currently at university. However, we are not alone, as we share our house with our two rescue cats, Pip and Tess, and of course, all my books!
When I am not tutoring or governing, you are very likely to see me out running in the local area, attending a spin class at Chartham Park or even throwing clay in Crowborough!
I am very much looking forward to meeting as many of you as possible over the next few months.
Claire Shuttleworth
Hi everyone, my name's Claire Shuttleworth and I am the LA Governor for Ashurst Wood Primary School. Previously I was a Parent Governor; I am also the Lead governor for SEND and have enjoyed chatting to the children and also meeting some of the families in the coffee mornings. I have been linked with the Primary School since my nieces started in 2009 and took a more active involvement when my eldest, now 15 and in secondary school, started by joining in with the PTFA. I also have a 12 year old daughter and a 9 year old son.
Many of you will have crossed paths with me through your children having attended Ashurst Wood Community Pre-school where I am part time in the office dealing with various administration tasks. I also voluntarily stand on the gate at the end of the school day.
When I am not either in the school or the pre-school you can find me enjoying family time with the children, husband, family and friends walking our dog Bertie. Our favourite places are along the Bexhill coast where my parents relocated to 3 years ago from Cheshire where I grew up, Hever castle and supporting the children at football matches or netball matches or enjoying a good book!
John Belsey
Hi everyone, my name is John Belsey and I am the new Chair of Governors at Ashurst Wood Primary School. As governors we are determined to achieve the best outcomes we can for the school in terms of its ethos, results and of course its physical buildings and infrastructure so it remains a vibrant heart of our village community for many years to come. Outside of the school you might know me as the local Mid Sussex District and East Grinstead Town Councillor for Ashurst Wood and East Grinstead South, I am also heavily involved with Ashurst Wood Bonfire Society, East Grinstead Tennis Club and Age UK. I am passionate about Ashurst Wood and its school and am looking forward to meeting more school parents and to hear your views on our school.
Rosemary Buckler
Newly co-opted to the board of governors, and the Policy Committee within it, I am currently getting up to speed with how things work and the use of many educational acronyms! I moved to the village nearly 3 years ago with my husband and have 3 grandchildren at the school. Becoming a governor brings a more cerebral challenge for me to counter-balance my physical exercise activities. i.e. I can do it sitting down! Before retirement I was a software developer for large insurance and publishing companies, so a corporate rather than education background. I am very familiar with the processes of setting and achieving objectives within time and budget. Nowadays I most enjoy walking around our beautiful local countryside, gardening, home improvements and puzzles.
Lisa Hobby
I have been a teacher since 1990 and I have had the privilege of being the Head of Ashurst Wood since January 2011.
I started teaching in Oxfordshire and I have taught in a variety of schools in Kent and East Sussex. I am passionate about ensuring that children experience a rich curriculum including the arts, sport and forest schools while preparing them for successful futures. I believe that every child has a talent or strength in which they can excel and that they will all forge their own path to success. This looks different for every child and I am proud to work with a dedicated team who understand that every child is an individual.
When I get time away from school I enjoy crafts and I have been known to spend my free time making props and costumes for the school show. I visit the cinema regularly and I love gardening. I have most success with roses but I did manage to grow some beetroot this year!
I have one daughter who some children may know from when she ran the after school Karate club. Although she is away at University we still enjoy traveling, embracing new experiences and creating lasting memories together.
Debs Hawe
I have been working at Ashurst Wood for 8 years as the School Business Manager. My role includes financial management, human resources, premises and assisting with health and safety compliance. I have been associated with the school since 2007 as both of my boys attended up until 2015. I was a member of the committee involved in the Pre-school build, before joining the school team in 2015, and have been a staff governor since 2020.
The Governors are volunteers who have an interest in education and schools. All schools must have a Governing Body, the size of which is usually determined by the size of the school. Our Governing Body members are from a variety of backgrounds and experiences.
Our Governors can by contacted by emailing the Clerk clerk@ashurstwoodprimary.co.uk
The Chair of Governors can be contacted via the above email or
Mr Belsey
Ashurst Wood Primary School
School Lane
Ashurst Wood
East Grinstead
West Sussex
RH19 3QW
Who are our Governors?
| Name | Type of Governor |
| Mr John Belsey - Chair of Governors | Co-opted |
| Mrs Rosemary Buckler | Co-opted |
| Mrs Claire Shuttleworth | LA |
| Mrs Jacquie Russell | Co-opted |
| Mrs Sally Alexander | Co-opted |
| Mrs Lisa Hobby | Head Teacher |
| Mr Nicholas Hollamby - Vice Chair | Parent |
| Mr David Kennedy | Parent |
| Mrs Debs Hawe | Staff |
| Mr Mark Elwell | Parent |
| Mrs Clare Jussen | Clerk to the Governors |
We currently have no Associate governors.