A PRIMARY school clerk has been shortlisted for a national award recognising the work of school governors.
Natalie Whetsone, clerk to the governors at St Lawrence School in Effingham, is among the finalists for the Outstanding Clerk Award by the National Governors' Association (NGA).
Ms Whetstone will attend an awards ceremony on Tuesday at the House of Commons, and will be accompanied by the school's head teacher David Gibbs and chair of governors Louisa Winter.
Speaking to the Advertiser following her nomination, Ms Whetstone said: "I am delighted to have been shortlisted as a finalist for such a prestigious national award.
"Everyone at St Lawrence strives to be the best that they can, and I am extremely pleased that my work has been recognised in this way."
The judging process featured visits from national experts in school governance to St Lawrence, including interviews with the school's head teacher and chair of governors.
Mr Gibbs added: "The school is supported by one team of teachers, governors and parents, all united in their focus of inspiring and supporting our pupils.
"In her role of clerk to the governors, Natalie plays a vital role in uniting that team.
"Everyone involved with the school is extremely proud of Natalie's achievement."
Louisa Winter, chair of governors, added: "Natalie is an exceptional individual who goes above and beyond to deliver stellar work for the school and local community.
"This is much deserved recognition for both Natalie and the school."
The awards ceremony will be hosted by the president of the NGA, Baroness Howe.
A spokesman for the award scheme said: "The clerks award is a prestigious NGA award that has been offered bi-annually since 2003 and has done much to raise the profile of governing body clerks.
"In making the Award the NGA is looking to celebrate good practice in governing body clerking in maintained schools in England and Wales."
