Mr Matt Kerry
Chair of Governors and Co-opted Governor
Chair of Governors
Although a number of you will have seen me at the school gate, I wanted to introduce myself formally and outline the experience and skills that I bring as the Chair of Governors. We are based as a family in Barns Green and chose William Penn ahead of our nearest school for the Quaker ethos, high-quality teaching, and the school’s vision of ‘Living, Laughing and Learning Together’. I am delighted to now have the chance to work closely with the exceptional staff at William Penn and help guide the strategic direction of the school.
I am a Deputy Headteacher at a secondary school in Cranleigh. My leadership responsibilities focus on constantly improving the intent and content of the curriculum, improving the quality of lesson delivery from our teachers, leading staff training across the school, ensuring high quality outcomes for students, and leading on external reviews of the school. I have also sat on various school Governing Bodies for over 10 years. I aim to use my skills and experience to lead the Governing Body of William Penn in both supporting and challenging the leadership team of the school.
Term of Office: February 2024 to February 2028
Previous Terms: None
Current Roles: Chair of Governors
Previous Roles: None
Mr Howard Hoare
Vice Chair of Governors and Co-opted Governor
Having recently retired after a 40 year career split between I.T. and education, I welcomed the opportunity to bring my knowledge and experience to the William Penn governing body. In my 20 years' of teaching I worked in both Primary and Secondary schools and have a particular passion for mathematics. My most recent experience was a Head of Mathematics and latterly an Assistant Headteacher at a secondary school in Cranleigh.
I have had previous experience of being on governing bodies having been Teacher Governor at both Millais School in Horsham and Glebelands School in Cranleigh. I hope I am able to bring expertise gain through those to William Penn.
Term of Office: May 2023 - May 2025
Previous Terms: None
Current Roles: Vice Chair of Governors
Previous Roles: None
Mr Matt Wakeling
Co-opted Governor
As a parent at William Penn and the Founding Director of a national children’s home and education service, I bring over 23 years of experience in safeguarding, therapeutic care, and strategic leadership to the Governing Body. I am the Responsible Individual for three care organisations and the Proprietor of our associated schools, specialising in creating "Outstanding" environments for children with complex needs.
My approach to governance is rooted in my "Champion" philosophy: the belief that every child deserves an adult who will never give up on them and who insists they become the best they can possibly be. I believe the role of a Governor is to provide both robust challenge and consistent support to school leadership.
Term of Office: February 2026 - February 2029
Previous Terms: None
Current Roles: Co-opted Governor
Previous Roles: None