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Carolyn Seymour

Students at Solihull Sixth Form College

Parent Governor

I worked as a teacher for 26 years - including 7 years serving as Headteacher of St John’s CE Primary School in Birmingham - and I am excited to be able to support Solihull Sixth Form College through my role as Parent Governor. I am deeply committed to the idea that effective, appropriate education changes lives.  

As a former Headteacher, I have worked closely with governing boards and understand how strong governance combines support with appropriate challenge. I recognise the importance of robust quality assurance processes – including observation, data scrutiny and professional dialogue – in maintaining high standards and ensuring that institutions remain reflective and forward-looking. At the same time, my leadership experience has taught me that organisational culture is just as important as formal systems. Open, honest relationships between leadership, staff and young people create the trust and shared purpose that allow educational communities to thrive.

My educational values are firmly rooted in the belief that every young person is unique and deserves the opportunity to flourish both academically and personally. Education should encourage curiosity, independence and confidence while also supporting social and emotional development. I believe strongly that students learn best in communities where respect, kindness and inclusion are actively modelled and where diversity is recognised as a strength.

Alongside my professional experience, my perspective has also been shaped by my role as a parent. I have two children who are autistic, and their battles with anxiety have given me first-hand insight into the challenges some young people face within traditional education systems and reinforced my belief in the importance of flexibility, empathy and strong communication between educational institutions and parents.

I am committed to ensuring that students’ wellbeing, personal development and life chances remain central to decision-making, alongside an unwavering focus on helping students reach their academic potential.

I welcome the opportunity to contribute my professional experience, strategic perspective and commitment to inclusive education to the governing board, supporting the college in continuing to provide high-quality opportunities and outcomes for all students.