Find out about our governors
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.
Michelle Sheehan- 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), as well 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
Associate Member- Lisa Everard
I am the Head of School for St James' Primary School. I have taught at 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 doing sporting activities. It 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.
Associate Member- Lousie Amin
I am the Head of School and SENCo at Freezywater St. George's Primary School and SENCo at St. James'. She has taught in various school within Enfield and Tower Hamlets, and has a Masters in Education Psychology. She has a keen interest in supporting pupils with SEND to reach their full potential, and in working with them, their families and school staff to ensure they receive the best possible provision.
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.
Ex Officio - Fr. Taemin Oh
Father Taemin Oh the Vicar of the Parish of St. George's, Enfield in Freezywater. He went to St. Stephen's House, Oxford for his training for the prieshood, then served his curacy in Colchester before he became the parish priest at St. George's. He is interested in Church Growth and encouraging the Vocation to the Ordained Ministry. He is a Dean of BAME in the Edmonton Area and Commissary to the Archbishop of Korea
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.
PCC Governor -Veronica (Roni) Battley
Veronica (Roni) Battley has lived in Enfield since 1987. Her oldest children went to Capel Manor Primary School (1987-1996) where she was involved with the PTA and was also a Parent Governor. Her youngest child, Lucy, went to Freezywater St. George’s School (2006-2013) where Roni joined The Friends (PTA), and was the secretary. She was also involved with St. George’s Church and was secretary for The Young Families. Whilst with The Young Families, Roni set up The Parent and Toddler Group, which is still running today at St. George’s hall. In addition Roni worked at Fern House School (formally Aylands School) for 24 years. This is a special school for children with social, emotional and mental health.(SEMH) She has been at St. George’s Church for over 20 years and was the Churchwarden alongside Helen Parker until recently, due to starting a new role as the Parish Administrator. Her time is spent between her family and St George’s Church.
LDBS Governor - Jennifer Sabendran
studied a Bachelor of (Primary) Education degree in Edinburgh. In addition to primary teaching, Jennifer has a passion for dance. She continued her dance training whilst working as a primary teacher across a range of London boroughs over a number of years. A keen researcher, Jennifer gained her Master of Education Degree in 2012 before joining the ‘Research Informed Schools’ programme run by the University of Hertfordshire. She enjoyed conducting further small-scale action research projects in the school she was working in. Whilst on maternity leave with her first child, Jennifer joined the governing body of another Enfield school as a deanery governor and she enjoyed the challenge of this role very much. Now a mummy to two children, Jennifer has enjoyed the challenge of working as a supply teacher more recently. She has also provided support, as an Early Years teacher, to a local Montessori Pre-School setting. Jennifer continues to have a real passion for dance and the importance of physical literacy. She also has a keen interest in the Early Years Foundation Stage and in the teaching of phonics and early reading. Jennifer is delighted to continuing her journey on the governing body of the Cedar Federation.
Deanery synod Governor - Tony Zotti MBE
Tony Zotti MBE worked for over 30 years in the housing department of the City of London housing dept dealing with housing management. He is a member of Enfield Dearnery Synod. I have held the responsibilities of churchwarden and also reading interscession in my church. Tony is a member of Oasis Hub Council. Tony is a City of London Guide and conducts walking tours. Tony was awarded by the City of London a MBE for service to the City of London Community.
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.
Staff Governor - Karyn Goodison
My name is Karyn Goodison. I have been a primary teacher for 25 years and have worked in both Freezywater St Georges’ and St James’ schools. I have a wealth of experience in leadership and I particularly enjoy designing and implementing the curriculum. In my current role as Assistant Headteacher at St James’ Primary School, I am able to liaise and support middle leaders in developing their subjects.
I am looking forward to joining the governing body of the Cedar Federation as it is an exciting opportunity to shape and influence the direction of policies of the newly federated schools to establish a strong foundation for success. Being involved in this transition period will enable me to gain insights into the complexities of managing and integrating multiple schools and have a positive impact in the overall quality of education in the federation.
Awaiting Update
Parent Governor - (Vacancy)
Parent Governor - (Vacancy)
Deanery Synod Governor - (Vacancy)