Schools' Funding Forum Election

Academy and Free Schools candidates

Academy and Free Schools candidate

Candidate Details:

Joe Sutton
Head of School
Cornwallis Academy - Future Schools Trust

Election Statement:

My name is Joe Sutton, I have held a leadership position at Cornwallis Academy for nearly a decade, and more recently the interim responsibility as Head of School. The importance of budget planning and forecasting in schools is crucial and has become more so in the light of financial constraints and staffing shortages. I would like to be part of a strategic group working alongside KCC, to help provide ‘on the ground’ advice to inform KCC policy, which ultimately supports schools in navigating an increasingly difficult financial landscape.

Academy and Free Schools candidate

Candidate Details:

Thomas Waterman
Headteacher
Meopham Community Academy - Golden Thread Alliance Trust

Election Statement:

I am a passionate Headteacher with a strong background in both primary and secondary education, spanning more than a decade in both the private and state sectors. My leadership has encompassed effective funding and budget management, ensuring financial sustainability while maintaining high educational standards.
Beyond my role as a Headteacher, I have successfully directed multi-school projects in areas of significant economic deprivation. In doing so, I have leveraged capital investment through philanthropic funding, bringing resources into the third sector to support school improvement and development of the transitional phase between primary and secondary schools. This has involved the effective management of large budgets and financial accountability, including reporting to key stakeholders and investors.
As the Headteacher of a two-form primary school in North Kent, I understand the challenges schools face in balancing funding constraints with the need to deliver excellent education. My motivation in joining the School’s Funding Forum is to contribute my expertise and insight to support Kent County Council in making well-informed decisions on school funding. I am committed to ensuring that funding allocations are both equitable and effective, driving positive outcomes for schools, staff, and pupils across the county.

Academy and Free Schools candidate

Candidate Details:

Natalie Hill
Co – Head 
Manor Community Primary School - Cygnus Academy Trust

Election Statement:

I am eager to contribute to the Kent County Council Primary School Forum, bringing my strong advocacy for children and valuable financial expertise. As an advocate for children, I am deeply committed to ensuring their voices are heard, and that decisions are made with their best interests at the forefront. I believe that every child deserves an inclusive and supportive learning environment where they can flourish academically, emotionally, and socially.

In addition to my passion for education, I bring significant financial experience gained both within schools and in the private sector. I have worked extensively on budget management, financial planning, and resource allocation, ensuring that funds are used efficiently to maximise educational outcomes. My experience in the private sector has further strengthened my ability to approach financial challenges strategically, balancing fiscal responsibility with the need to prioritise student development.

This combination of skills and experiences allows me to make informed, effective decisions that support both the financial health and educational excellence of our schools. I am committed to working collaboratively with fellow forum members to ensure the continued success of Kent’s primary schools and to advocate for policies that prioritise the wellbeing and success of all children in our community.