Governance

Michelle Battersby

Chair of Governors - Term of Office - 08.05.25 - 07.05.29

I am a Primary School Teacher, having taught for over 30 years in central Blackburn. I retired in 2025, having been Headteacher at St Silas CE Primary School, for nine very enjoyable years. I have had the privilege of serving as a Foundation Governor at St Luke and St Philip’s CE Primary Academy since 2025, and I am also a governor at St James CE Primary School, Blackburn. Over the years I have been a governor at other local schools and a trustee of a local multi academy trust. I care deeply about education for all, giving everyone opportunities to learn and to enjoy their learning.

Alec Johnston

Foundation Governor - Term of Office - 14.07.26 - 13.07.30

I am married to Sibylle. Together we have 3 adult daughters. I am a dual national being born to British parents in London and also became a German citizen in 2021 as a consequence of Brexit. I worked for 5 years as department head in Derbyshire for a 1300 strong secondary school. I have worked in England, Germany and Japan with my German wife in church ministry and am presently pastor of Blackburn Baptist Church in Galligreaves. I have been directly involved for over 20 years in Germany on parent councils, including for many years as chairman of the city parents association for all schools in Furtwangen in the Black Forest. I love mountain walking, languages, impressionist painting and playing the piano.

Jason Gardner

Foundation Governor - Term of Office - 27.01.26 - 26.01.30

I joined St Luke’s and St Philip’s as a governor in 2022 and have been the leader at the parish of St Luke’s, St Philip’s and St Mark’s since the Summer of 2021. I’m originally from the Lancaster area but have lived in London for over 2o years, moving back to the Northwest to be part of an exciting Church revitalisation project in Preston before making the move to East Lancs. I’ve been ordained since 2016 and before that worked as a youth worker, a lecturer for a Christian thinktank, an events organiser and within education as a Schools conference presenter. My wife Rachel helps lead St Luke’s church with me and we have two fantastic children, Daisy age 11 and Thomas 5. I love fell walking, film watching, attempting to master Chess and I’m a singer songwriter.

Fran Brown

Clerk to the LGC/Trust Governance Officer

Ruth Campbell

Observer

Ellie McGarry

Staff Governor - Term of Office - 17.09.26 - 16.09.30

I have worked at St Luke and St Philip’s CE Primary Academy since qualifying as a primary school teacher, giving me a deep understanding of our school community, curriculum, and values. Teaching here has allowed me to build strong relationships with our pupils, families, and staff team over the years. I am passionate about creating a supportive, inspiring environment where every child can flourish academically and personally.