Nick Turner - (Chair)  Local Authority Governor 

I am a dedicated  volunteer with 17 years of experience in school governance, spanning both local authority and church schools. My journey began in the realm of local authority schools, where I honed my skills in strategic planning, policy development, and stakeholder engagement. I was instrumental in driving initiatives that enhanced educational standards, promoted inclusivity, and fostered a nurturing environment for students and staff alike. Transitioning to church schools, I embraced the unique ethos and values inherent in faith-based education. I have worked tirelessly to ensure that these values are interwoven into every aspect of school life, while maintaining a strong focus on academic excellence and recognising the importance of developing well-rounded individuals. Throughout my career, I have remained committed to the principle that every child deserves a high-quality education. I believe in the power of collaborative leadership and the importance of community engagement in creating schools where students can thrive. I am excited to continue leveraging my experience and passion for education to make a positive impact on our schools and, most importantly, our students.

Executive Headteacher - Michelle Sheehan is the Executive Head

Teacher of Freezywater St. George’s Primary School & St. James' School.. Since starting her teaching career she has worked in different schools across Enfield and taken on various roles and training opportunities including: becoming an SLE (Specialist Leader in Education) supporting other schools, completing her Masters in Education and NPQSL (Senior Leadership Qualification), aswell as completing her NPQH (National Professional Qualification in Headship ) and  being a moderator for Enfield. Outside of school Mrs Sheehan has also taken on leadership roles within the church, such as becoming Church warden for Jesus Church in Enfield and has a passion for music, with a Degree and Postgraduate in this area

Lisa Everard - Head of school - Staff Governor 

I am the Head of School for St James' Primary School. I have taught across many schools in London, Essex and Hertfordshire throughout my career and teaching is certainly my passion, I love seeing the children grow in confidence, self belief and skills so that they are ready for the world around them.  I have completed my NPQH (National Qualification for Headship). I have also moderated writing at the end of Year 6 for Enfield over many years. I love being healthy and sporting activities is something I really enjoy doing and in my role at school, I ensure that there are many opportunities for children to develop sporting skills, teamwork alongside learning how being fit and healthy will help them have a successful life.

Melissa Hanks- (Vice) Parent Governor

I have two children attending St James School; I feel it’s really important that all children get a good start in life when it comes to education, giving them a good platform to take any path that they may wish to take.  A child should be in an environment where he or she enjoys going which is safe, loving and caring.  I am very willing to learn and help by developing my knowledge and education so I can help in any way that I can.  I am the sort of person who does not mind being out of my comfort zone, learning from other people or developing my knowledge in other fields.  Currently I am working in Asset management within the highway industry but I have a few strings to my bow.  I also have a level 5 diploma in Sport therapy and Reflexology; I enjoy cake decorating and have done a number of exercise courses.  I am always looking for my next challenge whether it’s another course or a learning experience.

Revd Ian Gallagher- Ex-Officio

God brought me to this part of the world just before Easter of 2014 from Germany to be the vicar at St James’s Parish Church. Founded at the same time, the church and the school are the oldest institutions here, and I love the shared sense of history. While I already spend quite a lot of time with the school, being a governor is great because I also get to be part of a shared vision of the school—like the church—being so anchored in the local community.

Lesley Kinghorn - Deanery Synod Governor 

 Lesley Kinghorn has had much experience as a governor at Freezywater St Georges' for a number of years.  She attended St George's Church Freezywater for over 25 years and both of her children attended the school. She has served on the PCC, and is a member of the Mother's Union. Before having a family, Lesley worked in the buying offices of a well known department store. After her youngest child started school she had a second career in Early Years; spending over 15 years working at St George's Pre-school.  Lesley gave up work in 2016 and was delighted to be given the opportunity to become a PCC representative on the Board of Governors. She is very excited to bring her knowledge and experience to St James' primary School, now serving on both governor bodies. 

Chanelle Montoya-Francis- Parent Governor 

I am an Enfield resident of over 20 years and a parent of a child attending St James. I enjoy living and being part of a community that works together and is made for everyone; no matter their race, gender, age or religion.

I live by the belief “it takes a village to raise a child” mentality and this further proven by my profession, working with young people in the Education/Charity sector. This allows me to have ample understanding of St James’ as a school and the young lives it serves.

Passionate about seeing young people thrive, I am excited to represent the parents and careers of St James’ school. As a parent governor, I pledge to be your voice whilst always being fair and professional.

Louise Whitaker - LDBS Governor 

I have been an Enfield resident for over forty years. I started my teaching career in a Church of England Primary School in the borough in 1982.  During my long career I have worked in 5 different schools mostly in Enfield and in church schools. The last eighteen years of my career I was a headteacher in three different schools.  I thoroughly enjoyed my career and I retired after 40 years in the summer of 2022.  I am now enjoying an active retirement walking, swimming, park running and frequent visits to the theatre.  I have also started some art appreciation courses.  I feel it is important to give back to the local community and I feel I have the relevant experience to contribute to the governing body. I am looking forward to sharing my knowledge and experience to support all the children and staff at St James’ CE Primary School St James CE Primary School.

Ella Tona - PCC Governor  

I have been part of our St James’ school community for 15 years, first as a parent and then as a member of staff for the last 11 years. I started my journey by volunteering at St James in Reception class while studying. I then joined the staff team at lunchtimes and in the school office. Previously I worked for a bank for 20 years, first as a Secretary and then as part of a large team in International Banking. I have the privilege of engaging with the wonderful children at St James daily and, as a Governor, I am very much looking forward to my involvement in supporting the vision of the school.

Sarah Field - PCC Governor 

I have lived in Enfield all my life and I have been attending St James' Church for 7 years. I’m an active member of the Church, volunteering in various groups. I have worked in a local school for 16 years as a teaching assistant/learning support. I work at the same school I attended as a child, so my love and passion has always been for the Enfield Community. I have 2 daughters who are both in the teaching profession and I believe that education is the key to success, giving everyone an equal opportunity to achieve.

Sandra Johnson - Foundation Governor 

I am currently an Assistant Headteacher at Latymer All Saints Primary School, responsible for leading KS2 and the whole school implementation of a new phonics scheme.  As with most senior leaders in schools, my responsibilities reach beyond these. Throughout my career as a teacher and in leadership roles, my focus has always been the achievement of pupils, the learning experiences they have and ways schools can give children the opportunity to grow as individuals.  I believe all children deserve inspiring, dedicated educators, who ensure that they are at the centre of the planning and delivery of the curriculum.  As a governor, working together in partnership with the Headteacher and leaders in the school, I would like to be a dynamic force, aiming to improve learning outcomes and life chances for all our pupils to flourish and develop, enabling them to reach their highest potential.