Governors

Governor Profiles

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Jane Cregan-Bird – Chair of Governors

Jane has been a Foundation Governor, appointed through St. Michael’s Church, at St. Michael’s Junior School for over eleven years. She has also been Chair of Governors at the school since 2008. Jane became a Governor after responding to a vacancy advertised in the “Viewpoint” (the Church magazine). She felt she wanted to be a Governor because she had both an interest in and a working background in education, and felt that she could bring relevant skills to the role. Apart from an interest in education Jane is also interested in fashion, shopping, personal fitness. Jane belongs to a local gym, and enjoys musical theatre especially the large London productions!

Duncan McKenzie – Vice Chair of Governors

Duncan is married to Liz and they have three grown up sons. Living in Great Baddow he is a member of Meadgate Church and is keen to support the school and maintain its Christian ethos. Duncan’s career has been as a business economist, recently as economics consultant to the Essex Economic Commission during its two year lifespan. Duncan also works for City of Chelmsford Mencap as volunteer coordinator and support worker. Duncan chairs the Business Management and Resources Committee and is lead governor for special educational needs.

Reverend David Cattle – Ex-officio

I have been a Governor of St Michael’s School since becoming the vicar of Galleywood in October 2018. I first became a vicar in 2011, and St Michael’s is the fourth school for which I have been a Governor. I have a passion to see every child reach their God-given potential, and I believe that Church schools, with their distinctive Christian ethos, provide the academic, emotional, and spiritual learning that really benefits children. I am originally from the Isle of Man, and I enjoy walking, running, cycling, eating out, watching films, playing the electric guitar, and listening to loud rock music. At the time of writing (2024), I am also a parent of a child at the school.

Francesca Watkinson

I was asked to be a Foundation Governor some years ago, when I was both a parent and a “Mum helper” in class and have served in various roles. Until my retirement, I worked in a local special school for over 20 years and am a committed member of St. Michael’s Church. My interests include walking my golden retriever, gardening and singing – especially gospel music.

Paul Smith – Foundation Governor

I am a School Business Manager at a two-form entry primary school in Thurrock. This follows on from 33 years’ working in the banking sector, largely spent supporting SME businesses in the Mid Essex area to grow and reach their full potential. I have a real desire to help children to achieve the very best from their schooling and do this by leading my school in all non-teaching related areas, allowing those who teach, to ‘teach’. I have always lived local to Galleywood. I am married to Lorainne, and we have 2 grown up children. I gave my life to Christ at age 21 and have held various leadership roles within the local church since then. I am a keen West Ham supporter! As a governor, I want to offer my extensive management and financial background to support the St Michael’s community to achieve its vision and values for every child.

Stephanie Drake – PCC Foundation Governor

I have been appointed as a Foundation Governor as I am a member of St Michaels Church. I’m passionate that every child is important and should have a voice. I’m married and have three children and four grandchildren. I’ve been a Foundation Governor at St. Michaels Junior School in the past and have an interest in education. I’ve worked at Thriftwood, St. Michaels and Beehive Lane as an LSA. I enjoy quality family time and yoga.

Steve Maddox – Parent Governor

I have two daughters who have already passed through St Michael’s and a son Isaac is who currently a student.  By day I am an Engineering Manager and am responsible for the design and development of new space systems. This means I have experience managing a whole range of people, working in diverse teams, solving complex problems, and working to time and budget constraints.   I have put myself forward as a parent governor as I’m keen to contribute in whatever way I can to making the school even better than it already is and I’m also sure that I will learn a lot in the process!

Jack Dougherty – Parent Governor

I joined the governing body in the Autumn Term 2023. I live in Galleywood with my wife and have two daughters. I currently work in the education sector as Director of Marketing for a co-educational boarding and day school in North Essex. I am passionate about creating opportunities for children to have the best possible start in life, as well helping schools achieve their strategic objectives.

I am looking forward to learning more about life at St Michael’s and helping the school to develop and grow.

Tom Emmett – Associate Governor

I joined the governing body of the school as an Associate Governor in 2020. I live in Chelmsford with my partner and young daughter. I have previously worked as a tutor in a community colleague, teaching legal and business qualifications. I am now a solicitor at Birkett Long solicitors, where I specialise in commercial and corporate finance matters and I am also the Head of Education at the firm. I have a particular interest in special educational needs and believe that every child with SEND should have the provision they require to meet their needs. As part of my job, I advise parents on the law relating to SEND, including in respect of EHCPs. I am lead governor for special educational needs at the school. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with my family, reading and participating in sport.