--- title: "Governance" url: "https://www.stbarnabasdarwen.co.uk/key-information/governance" school: "St Barnabas Primary School, A Church of England Academy" --- We are holding a number of open days for children due to start primary school in September 2027. Please see our admissions page for further details. Everyone welcome! # Governance - Governance - Local Governing Committee Members - Cidari MAT Members and Trustees - Documents ### Governance #### Welcome to St Barnabas As governors we are committed to supporting the head, senior leadership team and all staff to provide the best possible education and experiences for all of our children to enable them to fulfil their potential and grow in our “love filled Christian family”. We hope you find the website informative and helpful. It is important to us as governors that parents feel welcome. A good relationship between school and home helps to build a child’s confidence and assists their development in school. We work with school to ensure all of our children enjoy a rich and varied curriculum that meets their needs and reflects our Christian distinctiveness as a school. All governors have a lead role linking to different parts of our curriculum, and other important areas of school life such as safeguarding and pupil premium. We also have a group of governors that are responsible for the vision and ethos, and the strands of the Statutory Inspection for Anglican and Methodists Schools (SIAMS) evaluation schedule which includes the headteacher and RE subject leader. Our incumbent, Rev Ben, has worked very closely with our school and is the lead governor for RE and Church links. The children at our school have a happy, safe and caring environment in which to learn. We not only strive to enable our children to reach their full potential academically but also to be confident, sensitive to others, interested in the world and to grow up to be outstanding British citizens. At St. Barnabas, our team of Governors are hard-working and passionate about our school. We provide support to school in many ways, using our experience from a variety of backgrounds – please see ‘meet the governors’ for more information on who we are and what skills and experience we bring to the role. We are here to make sure that our performance is evaluated and continuously improves, to provide the strategic direction for the school, to provide financial oversight and support the senior leadership team and staff team to ensure our provision is the best it can be for all of our children. Most of all we are here because we care about our school and want the whole school and all of our children to succeed. Best wishes, ***Mrs Laura Watson Chair of Governors*** ***laura.watson@cidari.co.uk*** All of the academies in the Cidari Trust are accountable to their individual Local Governing Committees, which in turn is accountable to the Board of Directors of the Trust. In all our Academies the Local Governing Committee can appoint its own community Governors, and it is traditionally these posts which the Committee uses to cover skills gaps, hence these posts often being offered to Governors from the local business community. Parent and Staff representatives are are also elected on to the Committee and play a vital role in Governance. Finally, the For faith Academies, the church, via Cidari, appoint a number of foundation Governors to each Local Governing Committee. Local Governing Committees make decisions which are in the best interests of the children and young people. Keeping the decision making as close as possible to those that are affected by the decisions makes for sound and efficient leadership and governance. Fulfilling the role of an academy Governor is, therefore, both a serious undertaking and an enormously rewarding one. Not only do Governors bring their own knowledge and skills to the role, but, in learning how academies are run, they often develop their understanding of leadership. In addition, contributing to the growth and development of an academy and seeing tangible improvements in the attainment and wellbeing of the children is a satisfying and important contribution to the local community. For further information about our Multi-academy trust, Trustees, Members and LGC, please click on the following link: ### Introducing our Local Governing Committee Members As per DfE guidance, the purpose of governance is “to provide confident, strategic leadership and to create robust accountability, oversight and assurance for educational and financial performance”. There are three core functions of the governing board: - Ensuring clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction - Holding executive leaders to account for the educational performance of the organisation and its pupils, and the performance management of staff - Overseeing the financial performance of the organisation and making sure its money is well spent The LGC shall consist of: - 1 Headteacher - 1 Staff Governor - 2 Parent Governors - 6 Foundation Governors ### Meet the Governors ![Mrs Laura Watson](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/150x200c/people/IMG_7937_Reduced.jpg) #### Mrs Laura Watson ##### (Chair ) Foundation Governor ###### 1/05/23- 30/04/27 I am the Director of Spirituality at Hutton Church of England Grammar School and Sixth Form. This means I sit on the senior leadership team and am responsible for the Christian ethos and culture of our community as well as the Head of the Religious Studies and Philosophy department. I have been teaching for 14 years. I have two children, both of which attended St Barnabas. I am also a former St Barnabas student many, many years ago and a precious winner of the Sharon Kay kindness cup in Year 4! I am a member of St Barnabas Parish Church so I am thrilled to be able to serve both the Church and the school in the capacity of a Governor. I hope that my experience of teaching and, in particularly Christian education, will be of benefit to helping all members of the academy community to flourish and grow. ![Mrs Becky Ham](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/150x200c/people/PHOTO-2026-10-09-19-04-25.jpg) #### Mrs Becky Ham ##### Ex-Officio Staff Governor ###### Headteacher- 01/01/2020 I have had the privilege of being the Headteacher at St Barnabas since January 2020, after being the Deputy Headteacher for nearly six years. I previously worked at a large outstanding academy in Blackburn as the Early Years and Phonics Leader for three years and at another large primary school in Blackburn for eight years, where I was the English, PE and KS1 leader. I was a staff Governor at both of my previous schools. I am a Specialist Leader of Education for both Phonics and Early Years and regularly support other schools in the Trust and local authority, to develop their Phonics and Early Years provision, teaching and learning. I am also the lead for our School Improvement Group (SIG) and also sit on the SACRE board. I have two teenage children who used to attend St Barnabas, so this school has a special place in my heart. I have thoroughly enjoyed being on an amazing journey of school improvement at St Barnabas, which has now seen our school gaining strong goods in the last two Ofsted inspections and we have been oversubscribed for several years. I am very proud of the wonderful, hardworking staff team that we have and I take pride in getting to know each of our fantastic children and their families. ![Mrs Emma Wilkinson](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/150x200c/people/5f8e24f9-f93d-4529-84d8-cc389491eef7(2).jpeg) #### Mrs Emma Wilkinson ##### Staff Governor ###### 01/09/20-31/08/2028 I have worked at St Barnabas since September 2020. I am the Deputy Headteacher, Reception teacher, SENDCo and deputy designated safeguarding lead. I previously worked at a large outstanding academy in Blackburn as the Early Years, Phonics and Music Leader for 9 years. I am a Specialist Leader of Education for Phonics and have supported other schools in Blackburn with Darwen. I am passionate about providing an inclusive education and love to see all children thrive and achieve their potential. I love taking learning outside and love the Early Years as this is their starting point in their school education. I really enjoy getting to know our school family and hope to continue to make a difference. I am excited about the future of St Barnabas and want to continue to ensure that we all achieve great things and live life in all its fullness. ![Mrs Rachel Lewis](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/150x200c/people/Rachel-2-200x211.png) #### Mrs Rachel Lewis ##### Foundation Governor ###### 30/11/2022- 29/11/2026 I am the Assistant Principal at a local high school where I am responsible for Pupil Premium, Inclusion and Transition. I previously was a SENCO and specialised in teaching English Language and Literature. I have experience in strategic leadership, all aspects of inclusive education and the transition from Primary to Secondary. I have been a governor since 2019, and I am also a parent of two children who attend St Barnabas. ![Mr Ben Marston](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/150x200c/people/IMG_9833.jpg) #### Mr Ben Marston ##### Ex-officio Governor ###### 16/03/23- 15/03/27 I am married to Sarah and we have two young daughters, who attend St Barnabas. I grew up in a village in Lancashire and started attending church regularly aged seven, partly thanks to an invitation from the local vicar. After university, I spent ten years working for a Christian charity working with university students, both in the UK and in New Zealand. Since ordination, I have been a curate (assistant vicar) in North Nottinghamshire. I am excited to be back in Lancashire and I am loving getting to know Darwen, Hoddlesden and especially its wonderful schools. In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family, walking, cycling and reading. ![Mr Sean Dunn](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/150x200c/people/IMG_1292_(002).jpg) #### Mr Sean Dunn ##### Parent Governor ###### 13/12/ 2023 - 12/12/ 2027 As an experienced Account Manager at the Schools and Academies Show, I am dedicated to building strong relationships with education professionals and industry partners. My focus is on understanding the needs of schools, academies, and multi-academy trusts to ensure they have access to the best resources, insights, and networking opportunities through our events. I am passionate about helping educational institutions stay informed on the latest policies, innovations, and strategies to enhance student outcomes and operational efficiency. By facilitating meaningful connections between exhibitors, sponsors, and attendees, I contribute to making the Schools and Academies Show a valuable platform for education sector growth and collaboration. I’m a father of three girls , two of which attend St Barnabas, my brother and I were also pupils here along with my Mother too. ![Mr Andy Grayston](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/150x200c/people/202410096160666089690550246.jpg) #### Mr Andy Grayston ##### Parent Governor ###### 1/11/2024 - 31/10/2028 I work in the private healthcare sector supporting clients living with acquired brain injuries. I have 10+ years of experience working with individuals with complex needs, neurodiversity and acquired brain injuries. I have always been passionate in helping others and hope I can be of great service to the school for pupils, teachers and parents. I have a son who attends St. Barnabas. ![Mrs Caterina Berry](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/150x200c/people/1000082863.jpg) #### Mrs Caterina Berry ##### Foundation Governor ###### 1 Dec 2025 - 30 Nov 2029 I have a daughter at St Barnabas, and have recently joined as a foundation governor. I am looking forward to learning more about the school through the role. I am a Lecturer in dance currently at FE and HE level where I have worked for the last 12 years. Prior to this I delivered dance as enrichment across a wide variety of pre-school, primary and secondary school settings. I am passionate about creative arts and sport within education, and the positive impact this can have on children, their creativity, confidence, and overall mental and physical wellbeing. ![Mrs Natalie Eccles](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/150x200c/people/natalie.png) #### Mrs Natalie Eccles ##### Foundation Governor I am pleased to be joining the governing body and look forward to supporting the school and its wider community. My older son previously attended the school, my daughter currently attends, and I live locally, so I have a strong personal connection to the school and parish. With a background in education and safeguarding, I am passionate about supporting children and families and promoting positive outcomes for all children. I look forward to using my skills and experience to make a positive contribution to the school. ![Mrs Becky Feldwicke](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/150x200c/people/Becky_Feldwicke-Evans_(1).png) #### Mrs Becky Feldwicke ##### Foundation Governor I have been a teacher for the past 10 years, and currently teach Year 3 at a school in Bolton. I have recently joined the governing body as a foundation governor and I am looking forward to learning more about the school through this role. I am originally from Darwen and have lived in the local area for many years. I also worship at St Barnabas Church. I am passionate about education and hope to use my experience and enthusiasm make a positive contribution to the school, supporting its pupils, teachers, staff and wider community. All Governors have completed a declaration of interest form on Governor Hub and no business or personal declarations have been made. For further information on governance and the organisational structure of our Cidari Multi Academy Trust. Please click on the following link: ### Contact Details Email: **laura.watson@cidari.co.uk** ![](https://www.stbarnabasdarwen.co.uk/images/Spring_Governor_Newsletter.jpg) **16th December 2025** Dear Parents and Carers, We are delighted to introduce our new Chair of Governors, Laura Watson. Laura is a familiar face in our community; she is a former pupil of St Barnabas (even winning the Sharon Kay Kindness Cup!), a member of our parish church, and a parent to two former students. Professionally, she brings a wealth of experience as the Director of Spirituality and Head of RE & Philosophy at Hutton C of E Grammar School. We are thrilled to have her leading our Governing Body. We will be officially welcoming Laura at a special church service on Sunday 18th January at 11:00 am. All are welcome to join us. We would also like to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to Jen Frankish for her unwavering support and dedication to our Governors over the last 10 years. We are incredibly grateful for her service to our school family. Additionally, please join us in giving a warm welcome to Caterina Berry, who has joined us as a new Foundation Governor. You can read the attached welcome message from our new Chair and find more information about our Governors on our website here: ![](https://www.stbarnabasdarwen.co.uk/images/df52af655f05.jpg) ### Linked governors ![](https://www.stbarnabasdarwen.co.uk/images/89d6c2464a216c43b0f05b89d3a139a2.png) ![](https://www.stbarnabasdarwen.co.uk/images/cidari_badge.jpg) ![](https://www.stbarnabasdarwen.co.uk/images/cidari_faith.PNG) Cidari has a highly skilled Board of Trustees, approved by the Department for Education. The Board of Trustees delegate decision making for certain functions to a Local Governing Committee for each Academy. In Cidari each Academy has a Local Governing Committee (LGC). The LGC will continue to ensure that the needs of the Academy are monitored closely. The structure of Cidari allows for more formalised, collaborative working whilst allowing the individual characteristics, distinctiveness and ethos of each academy to continue. Cidari has a very small group of Members who are named for legal purposes. Members hold the trust board to account for the effective governance of the trust, the members themselves have a minimal role in the actual running of the trust. It is the trust board, not the members, who are the organisation’s key strategic decision makers. The MAT Board of Trustees has overall responsibility and accountability in law for the performance, site and overall running of the Trust and each of the Academies. ### What do the Members do? The standard company structure for Multi Academy Trusts is five members who are similar to shareholders in a company (but in this volunteers without any financial benefit rather than investors), there is then also a Board of Trustees who are responsible for the strategic running of the trust. The Members sign the company documents for the company (which set out its core purpose, i.e. provision of education etc.), they also have the power to appoint the Trustees and amend the company documents. The Members attend one annual general meeting each year. ### ![](https://www.stbarnabasdarwen.co.uk/images/trustees(1).png) ### Role and Basis for Appointment to the Board of Trustees The core governance functions of the Multi Academy Trust, (i.e. setting the direction of the Trust, holding the CEO and Headteachers to account and ensuring sound use of finances) are carried out by the multi academy trust Board of Trustees. Within Cidari, Trustees have been appointed on the basis of the skills they can bring to the trust board. It is essential that this is made up of skilled individuals to ensure the success, both academically and financially, of the trust and the best outcomes for the learners within our Academies. Some of the Trustees are representatives of the Diocese of Blackburn Board of Education and Board of Finance. ### ### ![](https://www.stbarnabasdarwen.co.uk/images/trust_board.png) ### Local Governing Committee The local governing committees, set up for each of the Academies within the MAT, maintain their existing representation (unless serious Governance concerns have been evidenced) and are tasked with protecting the individual ethos of the Academy. Parents are elected to these local governing committees and so maintain an input into the governance of their Academy. However, as mentioned above it is also responsibility of the MAT Board of Trustees to ensure it protects the individual ethos of each Academy within the MAT (whether church or community) in accordance with the company documents. More information regarding local Governing Committees and how to become a Governor in one of our Academies can be found by [clicking here](https://www.cidarieducation.co.uk/governance/AcademyLGCs). ### Meet the Governors ![Mrs Laura Watson](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/360x480c/people/IMG_7937_Reduced.jpg) #### Mrs Laura Watson ##### (Chair ) Foundation Governor ###### 1/05/23- 30/04/27 ![Mrs Becky Ham](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/360x480c/people/PHOTO-2026-10-09-19-04-25.jpg) #### Mrs Becky Ham ##### Ex-Officio Staff Governor ###### Headteacher- 01/01/2020 ![Mrs Emma Wilkinson](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/360x480c/people/5f8e24f9-f93d-4529-84d8-cc389491eef7(2).jpeg) #### Mrs Emma Wilkinson ##### Staff Governor ###### 01/09/20-31/08/2028 ![Mrs Rachel Lewis](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/360x480c/people/Rachel-2-200x211.png) #### Mrs Rachel Lewis ##### Foundation Governor ###### 30/11/2022- 29/11/2026 ![Mr Ben Marston](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/360x480c/people/IMG_9833.jpg) #### Mr Ben Marston ##### Ex-officio Governor ###### 16/03/23- 15/03/27 ![Mr Sean Dunn](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/360x480c/people/IMG_1292_(002).jpg) #### Mr Sean Dunn ##### Parent Governor ###### 13/12/ 2023 - 12/12/ 2027 ![Mr Andy Grayston](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/360x480c/people/202410096160666089690550246.jpg) #### Mr Andy Grayston ##### Parent Governor ###### 1/11/2024 - 31/10/2028 ![Mrs Caterina Berry](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/360x480c/people/1000082863.jpg) #### Mrs Caterina Berry ##### Foundation Governor ###### 1 Dec 2025 - 30 Nov 2029 ![Mrs Natalie Eccles](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/360x480c/people/natalie.png) #### Mrs Natalie Eccles ##### Foundation Governor ![Mrs Becky Feldwicke](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/imagecache/360x480c/people/Becky_Feldwicke-Evans_(1).png) #### Mrs Becky Feldwicke ##### Foundation Governor All Governors have completed a declaration of interest form on Governor Hub and no business or personal declarations have been made. ### Governor Documents Local Governing Committee Information 2025-26 201 KB [Open for printing](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/files/documents/St_Barnabas_2526.pdf) St Barnabas Register of Interests 2025 26.docx (1) 287 KB [Open for printing](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/files/documents/St_Barnabas_Register_of_Interests_2025_26.docx_(1).pdf) Governor Newsletter December 2025 5.44 MB [Open for printing](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/files/documents/Governor_Newsletter_December_2025.pdf) Governance Information 2024/25 389 KB [Open for printing](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/files/documents/St_Barnabas_2425.docx) Cidari Scheme of Delegation 922 KB [Open for printing](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/files/documents/Cidari_Scheme_of_Delegation.pdf) Governance Handbook 1.71 MB [Open for printing](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/files/documents/Governance_Handbook_FINAL.pdf) LGC Terms of Reference 530 KB [Open for printing](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/files/documents/Local_Governing_Committee_Terms_of_Reference.pdf) Competency Framework for Governance 676 KB [Open for printing](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/files/documents/Competency_framework_for_governance__(1).pdf) Cidari Governor Code of Conduct 410 KB [Open for printing](https://files.schudio.com/st-barnabas-primary-school/files/documents/Cidari_Governor_Code_of_Conduct.pdf) ### Key Information - 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