Southfield School is proud and delighted to welcome Lynn Chesterman OBE to our Governing Board.

The appointment of a governor is always significant, but it is particularly exciting when someone of Lynn's experience, dedication and commitment to public service chooses to support our school community. We are deeply grateful that she has accepted this role and look forward to the insight, challenge and encouragement she will bring as we continue striving to provide the very best outcomes for our pupils.

Lynn has spent much of her professional life championing vulnerable children, families and communities. Her career began within social services before she went on to spend more than 30 years in chief executive roles across the voluntary sector, including leading organisations supporting older people and vulnerable children and families. Her outstanding contribution to this work was recognised through the award of an OBE.

Alongside her extensive leadership experience, Lynn has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to public service within the local community. She has served as a councillor for Lynn Chesterman OBE's local authority and was appointed Mayor of Welwyn Hatfield in 2025, continuing a long record of advocating for local residents, supporting families and championing initiatives that make a positive difference in people's lives.

What makes Lynn's appointment particularly valuable to Southfield is how closely her experience aligns with our vision and values. At Southfield, our vision is to support all children to thrive during their time at school and to be fully prepared socially, emotionally and academically for their next steps in education. This is achieved through recognising every child as an individual, creating a strong safeguarding culture, delivering a curriculum that meets pupils' needs, working collaboratively with families and external partners, and ensuring pupils have the confidence and skills to participate fully in society.

Lynn's professional background reflects many of these same priorities. Her years of work with vulnerable children and families demonstrate a deep understanding of the importance of early help, safeguarding and partnership working. Her leadership across the voluntary sector has focused on broadening opportunities, reducing inequalities and ensuring that individuals are valued and supported to achieve their potential. These principles sit at the heart of Southfield's mission and will undoubtedly strengthen the strategic guidance and challenge provided by our governing body.

As a school, we place great importance on ensuring that every learner has a voice, develops confidence and resilience, and is equipped with the skills to navigate their future with independence and self-belief. We know that Lynn's experience of working alongside children, families, community organisations and public services will bring a valuable perspective as we continue to develop opportunities and outcomes for all our pupils.

On behalf of our pupils, families, staff and governors, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to Lynn Chesterman OBE for taking on this important role. We are honoured that she has chosen to share her expertise with Southfield School and are excited about the positive contribution she will make in the years ahead.

Welcome to Southfield, Lynn. We are delighted to have you as part of our journey and look forward to working together to ensure every child is supported to thrive, succeed and realise their potential.