Meet the Governors
Dr Seb Falk - Chair of Governors
I was born on Mill Road and have lived in the area for the last decade. I worked in the Civil Service before becoming a secondary school teacher, working in schools in Warwickshire and Canada. Now I work at Cambridge University, teaching and supporting students as well as researching and writing history. Besides being Chair of Governors, I am the link governor for History & Geography. In my spare time I am a keen runner, singer and (when I get the chance) sailor. I have two children in the school, but even before having kids I was inspired by the strong role that St Philip’s plays in the local community. I want to do whatever I can to help the staff and pupils maintain and build on its success.
Andrew Maclellan - Vice Chair of Governors & Chair of Finance and Resources Committee
I recently retired after over 40 years working in engineering business, starting in the motor industry but the last 25 years in renewable energy. In that time I have gained a great deal of experience in management, finance and contracts – plus dealing with government. I am married with 3 adult daughters, and 3 grandchildren. I have had long links with St Philip’s Church and St Philip’s School, having been a trustee of the church schools since soon after moving to Cambridge in 1979 and, many years ago, previously served as a governor here. The challenges and demands faced by schools have never been greater, but it is a privilege to be able to work with the other governors and the school staff and to serve the school community again.
Ben Hodson - Headteacher
Clare Hetherington - Deputy Headteacher
John Atkins - Foundation Governor
I am a former maths teacher and local authority officer and currently work advising schools and colleges on the management of resources. I have a particular interest in special educational needs and disability. I began my teaching career in Cambridge a number of years ago and am very much enjoying being back in the city. I am a Governor appointed by the Church Schools of Cambridge Trust and I look forward to supporting the School's continuing development in every way.
Ian Barker-Sherry – Foundation Governor
I moved to Cambridge in 2017, having previously lived in Liverpool, Worcester, London and the Southwest. Having spent my entire career in education, I'm currently Director of Student Learning for a school in the city, where my main role is focussed on school improvement and driving change through evidence-based practice. I lead on English as an Additional Language, Gifted & Talented and Assessment, as well as being the school SENDCo. My main Governor roles are as a member of the Teaching and Learning Committee, and as Link Governor for SEND, Pupil Premium, Attendance & Assessment. Having worked in boarding schools throughout my career, I fully understand the value of a holistic approach to education and wholeheartedly support the emphasis placed on developing the whole child, here at St. Philip's. In my spare time I enjoy walking my greyhound, Raffa, and spending time with family and friends, especially my two young nephews.
Ruth Barry – Foundation Governor
I have lived in Romsey Town for the past 22 years, with only a short time away in Cherry Hinton for my Ministerial Training. I have three children, all of whom journeyed through St Philip’s from Pre-school to Yr6. Before becoming Vicar of St Philip’s Church on Mill Road I was Children & Youth Coordinator for the church, and as such worked very closely with the school helping support children’s spiritual explorations. Both these perspectives, as parent and church minister, have enabled me to see the care, compassion and deep desire for flourishing which St Philip's School has for all pupils. I want to do all I can to support this desire and ensure pupils, staff and parents continue to thrive here.
Nat Day - Staff Governor
I have worked in the Office at St Philip's Primary School since 2018. All three of my children attended St Philip's from Pre-School - Year 6 and I have been an active part of the St Ps community since 2009.
I was appointed as Staff Governor in December 2023.
Will Harriss – Parent Governor and Chair of Teaching & Learning Committee
I’ve lived in Cambridge since 2010, and know this corner of the city well. I’ve got two children at the school. By day I’m a fundraiser, currently leading the fundraising for a music education charity, that seeks to make sure every child has access to an outstanding music and creative education, for all the benefits that it brings. That’s really why I stood to be a parent governor – I hope my experience of music and creative education, coupled with a real passion to ensure every child can unlock their own potential, can add something positive to the school as we all emerge out of the pandemic. St Philip’s Primary is a key part of our community, and I’m looking forward to playing a part in helping it to thrive into the future.
Alice Newton – Parent Governor
I am a Parent Governor, appointed in 2024. My eldest daughter, Victoria, is a pupil at St Philip’s and you’ll often see me at pick up time with baby Ophelia too. I have worked for over a decade in arts marketing, fundraising and training, and have chaired the board of Trustees of Cambridge Community Arts. I'm passionate about broadening and enriching the curriculum for all children and making St Philip’s a safe, fun and exciting place to learn.
Alan Syrop – Foundation Governor
I have retired from a 40 year career, fulfilling a wide variety of engineering roles, both technical and managerial, which spanned the design of food processing machinery to surgical devices and the development of manufacturing systems.
Now, I can be involved in the community as well as St Philip's Church, where I am also a Warden – it's good to be a School governor and support the long-term links between the two, using practical skills where I can and helping nurture the next generation of Romsey people.
Colin Hurst - Newly appointed Foundation Governor 2024
Chris Sweet - Newly appointed Local Authority Governor 2024
