Claire Randall

I studied International Management with German at the University of Manchester and the University of Innsbruck in Austria and I then chose to follow a career in marketing. I worked for many years as a Channel Marketing Manager for a software distribution company and I now own a homeware and gift shop. I live in Longwick and have two daughters who both attended Longwick School from Reception through to Year 6. It is a privilege to be playing a part in ensuring the children are receiving quality teaching and learning across a broad and balanced curriculum.

Clare Smith

I was born in Longwick and my family has lived in the village since the 1800’s. My Great Grandfather was a Manager of the school when it was based at the Old School House. I attended the school in the 1980’s, followed by Aylesbury High School. I qualified as a Chartered Management Accountant in 2007 and work as a Financial Controller for a contract catering company in Thame. I hope that I will be able to use my skills, including financial knowledge, to offer my support to the school in the hope that this will enable other children to obtain as good a start to their educational life as I received at the school.

James Spybey

Having qualified as a barrister, I have pursued a career in the Government Legal Department providing legal advice and support to government ministers and officials. My family moved to Longwick in 2020, and I have two children both attending the school. As a parent governor, I hope to be able to apply skills and experience gained both at work and as a parent to help support the school. I care particularly about justice, fairness and equality and believe that the school’s aim, to provide a caring, welcoming and inclusive environment, is absolutely integral to our children and staff thriving.

Ashley Knibbs-Cruickshank

I have lived in Princes Risborough for over 20 years and take great pride in being part of such a vibrant and close-knit community. My extended family has deep ancestral roots in Longwick, with multiple generations attending the local school and even historically delivering milk to the community by horse and cart.  Professionally, I work as a capital infrastructure delivery specialist with the Ministry of Defence. In this role, I lead complex projects that require strategic thinking, objectivity, and strong problem-solving skills - qualities that I believe are equally valuable in school governance. I am passionate about education and am committed to helping the school thrive, supporting its leadership team in delivering high standards and the best possible outcomes for all pupils.

Laura Armstrong

Having grown up in the Northwest, I moved south to pursue my education in Musical Theatre, an experience that shaped my appreciation for creativity, culture and the power of self-expression. My professional journey began in the education sector, where I worked for a large multi-academy trust as a Network Lead, supporting systems and structures that enable schools to thrive. I later joined a school in Beaconsfield, where my growing passion for culture, inclusion and positive behaviour inspired me to further develop as a leader. I completed an MA in Educational Leadership and achieved Chartered Manager status, experiences that have strengthened my commitment to fostering environments where both students and staff can succeed. I now lead on Character Education, with a focus on embedding high standards and creating opportunities that allow every student to reach their full potential. I am deeply committed to the belief that strong values, a positive culture and high expectations are central to successful schools. I hope to bring my passion for education and culture to my local community, contributing to an environment where all young people feel supported, inspired and empowered to thrive.

Joe Copson

I have lived in Longwick since 2021 and have worked in IT within the education sector since 2009. I am currently Head of Technology at Aldenham School in Elstree, where I lead the strategic use of technology to support teaching, learning and operations across the Foundation.  I am keen to use my experience and expertise to support the continued development of Longwick School and contribute positively to its community.

Rev Steve Benoy

I became Team Rector of the Church of England churches in the Risborough area in November 2025, in particular St Mary's Princes Risborough and St Peter's Ilmer.  Longwick school is the church school for our parish.  I moved here having been chaplain to the Bishop of Peterborough, previously serving in parish and diocesan roles in Northamptonshire and south London since 1996.  Before that I had a few years as teacher, where I especially enjoyed supporting school sport and music, which was my first degree. Developing strong and supportive connections with local schools has always mattered to me as a minister and I look forward to the same being so here.