Meet the members of our Local School Committee

Sarah Merrigan (Chair)

Karen Cayford (Headteacher)

I joined Springmead in September 2018 and have overseen a fundamental change in the school since then.  I was born and have lived in Hertfordshire for most of my life and still have children who go to school within the county.  I am privileged to lead such as diverse and interesting school and can see our vision and aims in action every day.

I love the variety that the children and families bring to Springmead and the importance that we place on developing the whole child whilst not taking our focus away from continually striving to raise standards. It is a happy environment to be in for everyone who learns and works here and every day presents a new and exciting challenge.  

I am also Executive Headteacher - Compliance and Operations for the Spiral Partnership Trust.

Nichola Porter (Staff Governor)

I have lived in Hertfordshire all of  my life and have been a member of the teaching team for seven years and the leadership team for the past four years.  I have worked across EYFS and KS1 and am the EYFS and KS1 lead. I am hugely committed to the school, the children and the staff and thoroughly enjoy being part of the Springmead community.  Outside of work I enjoy playing tennis and have recently learnt surf. 

Dirk Werling (Parent)

I am Professor of Molecular Immunology at the Royal Veterinary College and a Fellow of the Higher Education Academy.  Thus, whereas I may not have a deep insight into Primary School Teaching, I have a good understanding of what contributes to a successful learning environment.  I have experience in curriculum setting and delivery, and in managing large projects in groups with a diverse background. 

I have two daughters who currently attend Springmead.  I was elected as a parent governor at Springmead in autumn 2016, taking up office in early 2017.  I am a qualified Vet, and enjoy spending my time with animals and in the outdoors with activities such as rock climbing, skiing and cycling.

Laura Downer (Co-opted)

I am married with two children and have lived in Welwyn Garden City all of my life.  My daughter currently attends Springmead and my young son will follow her into the school in a few years’ time.  My husband attended Springmead as a child so the school has been in our lives one way or another for some years!

I became a school Governor in January 2019.  I have worked within Human Resources within both the public and private sector for the past 18 years and currently for the NHS.  I am excited for having the opportunity to support the school in its continual improvement plans and to maintain its high standard of teaching and learning.  In my spare time, I enjoy going to the gym, walking and spending time with my young family.

Our Clerk is Patrick Aikman.

Current Governors

Previous Governors

Dates of meetings for 2024-25 are:

25th September 2024

29th January 2025

19th March 2025

25th June 2025

All meetings begin at 6:00pm and are attended by governors and invited guests only.

To contact any of our governors please email admin@springmead.herts.sch.uk and your enquiry will be passed on.