Our Governors

Tim Fairbairn (Chair of Governors) 

After working for more than 30 years in the City, I ran a micro goat dairy for 10 years. I am now retired and enjoy my time as a School Governor, Parish Councillor and a member of the Diocesan Board of Education. My hobbies include military history and metal detecting. My son has just started at the TGS Sixth Form.

 

Simon Knight (Vice Chair of Governors) 

We moved to Bures from Essex with my partner and her two daughters having visited regularly when walking the dogs. I recently took early retirement from my career in secondary education.

I had the pleasure and privilege of spending sixteen years as Head of a large secondary school in Essex. I currently work part-time as an educational consultant, working with schools in Essex and Suffolk. As a Head, I was always deeply grateful for the help and support I received from my Governing Body, so offered my assistance to the Governors, which they accepted.

 

Leighton Hammett

Rev Daniel Whiffin

Ross McCrory

I am a lecturer in the History Department at the University of Suffolk, although my research also traverses theatre, literature and theology. Indeed, my interest in theatre has led me to become Chair of the Bures Stage Society and to some other work in theatrical circles. Meanwhile, my theological explorations also find expression in my ordained ministry within a small, inclusive and progressive church. In all aspects of my work, including my current research, I am interested in what makes good teaching and in the broader purpose of education. As such, I am very glad to contribute to, and learn from, the Governing Body at Bures Primary School.

 

James Thompson

Heather Whittle

Sam Baker

My family & I moved to Great Cornard from Northamptonshire in 2020, and enrolled both of my daughters to attend Bures Primary School.  My youngest daughter is currently in Year 6 and has just completed her SATs mocks and my eldest daughter is now attending Thomas Gainsborough School.  I joined as a co-opted Governor at Bures Primary School in 2021 following my previous Parent Governor role at a similar-sized village school in Northamptonshire. 

I am a strategic customer engagement specialist with over 20 years of global experience spanning different specialisms. I have managed the execution of several high-profile customer engagement campaigns whilst working closely with Regulators such as the FCA.  I am a naturally curious professional, confident to challenge the status quo, and make strategic recommendations to improve communications, processes and deliver outcomes by interrogating data and insights.

As a Governor, I will contribute by driving the strategic direction of the school and assist with the management of Pupil Premium and Looked After Children.

Chris Gallier-Trigg

As a father of four, including a child with SEND, I bring a personal understanding of diverse needs. With over 17 years of experience in the Criminal Justice System and qualifications in teaching, I am dedicated to fostering positivity and consistency at Bures Primary School.

Trained in safeguarding, I prioritise the safety and wellbeing of staff and pupils. Beyond my professional life, I have actively contributed to community extracurricular activities, including junior rugby coaching and delivering first aid training.

My goal is to support and enhance the school environment, ensuring it remains a nurturing space for everyone. I am passionate about promoting wellbeing and resilience, striving to help Bures Primary School continue its tradition of excellence and inclusivity.

Michaela Harris (Headteacher) 

Rhian Dickeson (Staff Governor)

 

governors compliance autumn 2024.pdf

 

governors attendance 2023 24.pdf

 

 

bures annual governance statement 2023 24.pdf

 

terms of reference september 2024.pdf