Tim Smith (Chair of Governors)

I became a  governor at Shakespeare in early 2022.  I am a lawyer and worked in the Court Service for 40 years until I retired in 2018.  Leaving work allowed me time to explore other interests, in particular involvement in the community as a school governor - albeit that, with two children well into their 20s, my knowledge of primary education was rather dated.  My introduction to the role came at Knowle in 2019 and during my time there I have worked closely with Mr Lancaster and seen much positive progress.  It was a great privilege to then be invited to join the governor team at Shakespeare.  From my first visit, I was impressed by the super facilities, and felt the infectious enthusiasm of all the staff.  It was lovely to hear the excited buzz of children clearly enjoying everything that the school has to offer.  In turbulent times, it's a pleasure to be connected with such a vibrant and positive place and, with our strong team of governors, I look forward to playing a part in the school's progress in the years ahead.

Linda Ludlow (Vice Chair of Governors)

I joined the Shakespeare team in the spring of 2022 with the hope of bringing new energy to the Governing team and to support the leadership team pending the imminent Ofsted inspection. I retired from the Royal Navy after 22 years as an Aviation & Maritime Forecaster (or weather forecaster!) and am focussing on being a Mummy whilst volunteering at Knowle and Shakespeare, being a Reservist, invigilating and busy as the Chair of my children’s school PTFA. I have 2 children Abigail (12) and Marcus (9) and love event management and raising money for our schools. I’m sporty and love getting involved with encouraging the children on the field with Athletics and Cross Country. I’m hoping to bring my leadership, team skills and motivation to support Shakespeare’s staff and students and look forward to attending school events.

Courtney Lobban (Headteacher)

I am delighted to be appointed as Headteacher at Shakespeare Primary School starting in September 2025. My previous roles include being a Head of School, Assistant Headteacher, Executive Improvement Lead and I will remain a Plymouth Lead in Education (PLE) specialising in Early Years. I have taught in Plymouth and in London in a range of schools including specialist provision. I am passionate about all children receiving an outstanding education offer and I am excited to build on the amazing work taking place at Shakespeare - where all achieve greatness. Outside of school I have a 15 year old son (Tyler) and a small dog (Alice). Together, we love exploring the outside and enjoying the beautiful coasts that Devon and Cornwall have to offer.

James Lloyd (Co-opted Governor)

I qualified as a teacher in 2016 and have taught within primary schools in Devon as well as teaching music at a secondary school in Cornwall. I now work within nuclear training at Babcock, and am keen to continue my involvement in primary education and the local community by becoming a governor.

I feel passionate about learning journeys, Pupil Premium and happy learners. I look forward to bringing both my experience from teaching and from my current role, particularly around attention to detail, governance and my links to the STEM curriculum to support the school community.

In my spare time I am a musician, and enjoy exploring the Southwest countryside with my wife and dog Bertie.

Meryl Orkney (Staff Governor)

Having been the Office Manager at Shakespeare since 2010 my responsibilities involves administration, finance, HR, estates management and supporting staff, parents and pupils. Prior to joining Shakespeare,  I have had many positions including Quantity Surveyor, Accountancy and Business Management. The knowledge and experience I have gained in these roles have supported my position here at Shakespeare.

I enjoy working with the excellent staff at Shakespeare Primary School and admire their dedication and professionalism. I look forward to working alongside the other governors to help support the school’s progress.

On a personal note I have two children who are currently away at university and In my spare time I love walking my dog and travelling.

David Bowles (Co-opted Governor)

David has worked in education for over 30 years and has acquired considerable leadership and management experience within the areas of school improvement and performance. He taught in several schools for over 20 years and has been the Head of Education for a Local Authority as well as working with Ofsted as a school inspector. At present David Inspects and supports several schools in the Middle and Far East.

David is a keen football supporter as enjoys keeping fit through walking. He is a volunteer for the National Trust and spends much of his time on grandparent duties.

Jodie Moon

I am the children and families support worker at Shakespeare Primary School, and I have been passionate about School governance since joining my daughters school as a parent Governor 8 years ago. I believe the only way to make change and understand is to be part of the process. Having children ranging from 25 to 9 I have been involved in school life for 23 years, I truly believe that education is the key to success and giving children the best start in there education is instrumental in giving them the tools for their future, school governors are an integral part of school life.

Outside of school I run a local Rainbows troop and the Sunday school at St. Francis of Asisi Honicknowle. I also have a passion for baking and love to spend Saturday afternoons making cakes with my twins.