Paul Harris - Chief Executive Officer and Executive Head Teacher 

 Paul is currently the Executive Head Teacher of four schools, of which he led to outstanding with Ofsted, as well as one nursery and children’s centre, all within the London Borough of Newham. Paul is passionate about ensuring that all children are given the very best life chances and has a proven track record of tackling key contextual issues to lead schools rapidly and sustainably to being outstanding in all categories. Named Head Teacher of the Year in 2015, Paul is also a National Leader in Education (NLE) and school improvement advisor working with schools in challenging circumstances. Paul is a regular speaker at educational events, particularly after his involvement as a member of the DfE’s Rochford Review.

Leigh Welburn- Head of School 

Leigh has worked in Newham since 2000.  She has been a Creative Curriculum Lead ; an Every Child a Writer Lead ; a KS1 moderator and KS2 writing moderator  for the Local Authority and supported schools in Newham and Hackney to develop excellent teaching and learning . She absolutely believes that all children, no matter their need,  can make a positive contribution to society and that the role of a school is to make children see the many avenues they have to impact their world positively, both locally and globally.  She champions the Arts and sees these as  integral in engaging all children in learning and allowing children's knowledge and understanding to be deepened through exposure and access to these different forms of drama, dance, music and art.  

 Amardeep Panesar - Chair of Governors 

 The past few years of my teaching career have provided me with a high level of professional experience gained through a variety of practical and developmental roles, mainly achieved through education and sport.  I believe in a mature, well-paced and constructive teaching approach where relationships between staff, students and parents are crucial in order to achieve the right level of response from the student.  I am looking to make a continued significant contribution to children's lives, as a Headteacher and have developed a vast amount through my career, which began in 2000 in the London Borough of Newham.  As an ex-pupil of Kensington Primary school I am very passionate to give back to the community and school that gave me the right foundation and allowed me to achieve so many great things through education and sport

Rashmi Makwana - Co-opted Governor

Hannah Rizki - Co-opted Governor

With a MSc in stochastics modelling and a BSc in maths and statistics Hannah is currently head of coffee research at a commodities trade house – ED&F Man, head quartered in London, as well as being a mentor for young women in the workplace.

Noting the widespread impact the pandemic has had on children and their families I was inspired by the work that Kensington primary school staff were undertaking to support their students which included providing basic essentials including food parcels as well as extra academic support to vulnerable children and their families. Subsequently, I helped raise money for a vulnerable family fund to help continue the work longer term.

“I’m delighted to be a part of Kensington Primary School and look forward to taking on my responsibilities.”

Hina Hussain - School Governor

With a background in law and education, I bring a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to supporting learning. After earning my law degree and PGCE, I have been teaching since 2001, working across Early Years, Key Stage 1, and Key Stage 2. This broad experience has given me valuable insight into children’s educational development at different stages.

My passion for advocacy and community support began during my law degree when I volunteered with the Community Advice Programme (CAP) in Ealing. CAP provided free legal advice to the community while offering practical experience to law students. This experience reinforced my dedication to ensuring that people from all backgrounds can access the support and opportunities they need.

As a former history and geography lead, I was proud to contribute to my school earning a Silver Award for the Primary Geography Quality Mark (PGQM), which led to me being invited to write for Primary Geography. My passion for education extends beyond the classroom—I am also an active voice for staff as a workplace representative for the NEU. I am excited to serve as a governor at Kensington Primary School and look forward to supporting its continued success.

Valentina Pettanati - Parent Governor

Valentina has a degree in marketing communication studies, and has worked in advertising and media for over 20 years currently holding the position of VP of B2B Strategy in Essencemediacom, a media agency. With a passion for helping everyone fulfil their potential, Valentina also trained as an NLP Coach.

“We chose Kensington for our daughter because the ethos of the school stood out to us and we believe it in, so I am excited to be in a position to help Kensington succeed”

Shikha Dixit- Co-opted Governor

Coming from a finance background, I chose to become a school governor because I am committed to using my professional skills to give back to the community. In my role, I provide financial oversight and contribute to strategic planning, working collaboratively with staff and fellow governors to support a safe, inclusive and aspirational environment for every child. I am also actively involved with the OPAL team, helping to transform the playground into a more engaging and stimulating space. This initiative aims to provide children with opportunities to climb, build, explore and develop their creativity through active play.

Andrew Morris- Parent Governor - Vice Chair

Andy has worked in construction and engineering for over 20 years. Educated to master's degree level he has worked on projects including The Olympic Park in Stratford and major high-rise buildings in The City of London. He brings relevant skills and experience in areas such as risk management, policy review, planning, leadership, compliance, and best practice. 

 Andy says "As a parent with a child attending the school, nothing is more rewarding than seeing happy children succeeding in a school that fosters strong values, ambition, and opportunities. I look forward to contributing to the Local Advisory Board to support the school community." 

Denzel Dodoo - Trust appointed Governor

‘Denzel is a Claims Adjuster in the Insurance industry. He attended the University of Warwick, studying Politics and International Studies and graduating in July 2023. Denzel is a Newham local, and joined the Board of Governors in 2025. He is a keen football fan who supports Manchester United.’