Cllr Palmer is Chair of the Community Engagement and Wellbeing Committee.

About me

I have lived in Charlton Kings since 2004. I am now retired and put my considerable experience in education to use as a Governor of a local primary school. Previously, I have been a Governor of Balcarras and a number of other primary schools. I have also worked on a voluntary basis with the Gloucestershire Governors' Association. I currently volunteer at the Sue Ryder Hospice charity shops for two days a week. I have been a keen allotment holder for over ten years.

I have a degree in Geography from the University of Leicester and a Diploma in Education. I worked as a primary school teacher in Hertfordshire for twenty years. When the National Curriculum was introduced, I took up a position as a primary education adviser at Hertfordshire County Council which involved a range of roles including supporting failing schools, moderating SATs results and providing professional development training for teachers. Subsequently, I became OFSTED qualified and worked as a schools' inspector.

Why I became a Councillor

For a number of years, I have had a deep understanding of the work of the Parish Council, as my late husband was Chair. I am aware of the importance of local people from all backgrounds putting themselves forward as Parish Councillors to support their community. The skills that I have gained in my working life, in particular "challenge and support", are directly relevant to the role of Councillor. I find the role extremely rewarding and it has deepened my appreciation of the area where I live and has allowed me to use my time constructively to benefit my community now that I am retired.