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!

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 have a 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.

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.

Richard Hyland – PCC Foundation Governor

I have been appointed as a Foundation Governor as a member and treasurer of St Michaels Church. I am a 2nd term City Councillor, serving Chelmsford since elected, as first ever Independent Councillor, for Galleywood in 2019, re-elected in 2023. I have previously given 15yrs to Parish Council, serving as Chair for a number of years. Also, I am currently serving as a trustee and Chair of the Galleywood Heritage Centre

I worked in Shipping for 35yrs for Maersk, the largest shipping company in world, last 8yrs, my role in IT was as a Data Engineer providing senior decision makers with Strategy insight and solution options based on data. Since retiring, I was most recently elected as a director of Chelmsford Star Co-operative.

I am married to Marie, I am a dad of 2 educators, who have blessed us with 5 grandchildren, Marie and I have lived in Galleywood for over 15yrs.

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 Felsted School, 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.