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 since becoming the vicar of Galleywood in October 2018. I have 11 years’ experience of Parish ministry, following 10 years being an accountant, and have been on the Governing Body of three primary schools, in Manchester and Welwyn Garden City. I have a passion to see every child reach their potential, and believe that Church schools, with their Christian ethos, provide the academic, emotional, and spiritual learning that really benefits children. I am originally from the Isle of Man. I am married to Kirsty, and have a 3-year old daughter called Sophia. I love to run, cycle, read, eat out, watch films, and listen to loud rock music. Sometimes (on special occasions) I perform magic tricks on stage. I can often be found on Galleywood Common walking the family’s Golden Retriever called Bracken.
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
Coming soon!
Stephanie Drake – PCC Foundation Governor
Coming soon!
Steve Maddox – Parent Governor
Coming Soon!
Andrea Wolahan – Staff Governor
See School Staff
Mark Northfield – Local Authority Governor
I have recently joined St. Michael’s Junior School Governing Body as an Associate Governor (Summer 2020). This has been after moving back to the area from London. I decided to take on the role to utilise my skills and knowledge and to help give back to the local community. My career has been spent in Financial Services heading up Analytics, a Credit Risk Team that goes across mainstream banks and other lenders. Outside of work I enjoy many sports and am a 5-time Glastonbury survivor!
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.