A GOVERNOR at two Hartlepool primary schools has become the first in the town to win national recognition for her inspiring leadership.

Jackie Murray, chairwoman of Governors at both St Peter’s Elwick Church of England School and Hart Primary School – which operate as a federation with a single head teacher, has been appointed as a National Leader of Governance (NLG).

Awarded by the National College of Teaching and Leadership, the accolade means she is able to coach and mentor other Chairs of Governors to help them lead improvement within their own schools.

“I am so passionate about education and driven by the prospect of helping to ensure that our young people fulfil their potential. I am really pleased to be given the opportunity to pass on my knowledge and experience to other Chairs of Governors striving for excellence within their own schools,” she said.

Jo Heaton, executive headteacher of the schools, said: “This appointment is really well deserved and we are all so proud of Jackie.

“She has such a strategic approach and is fantastic to work with. She has only been Chair of Governors since February, but I believe that our rapid recent improvement has been achievable due to her involvement, and partnership working with us as a federation.”

NLG candidates must be able to demonstrate that they have excellent leadership skills and a proven track record of contributing to school improvement through the effective leadership of a governing body.

Mark Patton, Hartlepool Council’s assistant director for education, learning and skills, said: “It is great to have an experienced governor of Jackie’s calibre working in the town as we strive to ensure that by 2016 every school in Hartlepool will be providing a good or excellent standard of education."