Governing Board
I am married with 2 children and 3 grandchildren. I taught Science for 13 years in Catholic Secondary Schools but was retired on health grounds due to my limited mobility, having suffered life-changing injuries in a road traffic collision. I was immediately offered a job as the senior executive of a National Governing Body for cycle racing which, I held until my retirement in 2010.
I now have the time to attend daily mass, brew my own wine and beer, ride my hand-cycle, go on frequent holidays in the sun and cruising around the world. I have also started to learn the clarinet, as there are only so many crime novels you can read and crosswords to do, and have recently acquired a tropical fish tank – thought it might be easier than a dog; how wrong can you be!
I am a committed Catholic and see St. Joseph’s School as an integral and important part of the parish. I therefore feel it is a great honour and privilege to be able to assist the pupils and staff in reaching their full potential.
My name is Trish Kiernan and I am proud to have been invited to be a Governor at St Joseph’s Primary School. Many years ago I was a pupil here when the boys and girls schools were separate. I am married with two adult children and live in the parish. I have recently retired after working in a number of Pastoral Roles in various schools. In my spare time I enjoy walking, cooking, baking and crafting. I am looking forward to using these skills in school.
I am the eldest of 4 with one little brother and two little sisters who all attend local schools. I have two dogs Pixie and Kylo, who I take on adventures at the weekend - we love to go exploring! I am extremely family orientated and love to help and offer support whenever needed. Being a governor is giving me the opportunity to understand more about St Joseph’s but also to support the staff and students. I am eager to see how I can help within the school and support the St Joseph’s Family.
Hi my name is Andy Heald. I have been a Governor at St Josephs for the past five years.
I decided to become a School Governor for two reasons - one to offer my support to ensure I was doing all I can to ensure my own children and all the children of St Joseph’s get the best possible education and start in life and two, I have a strong dedication and passion for education and love the challenge of being a school governor offering my expertise and guidance whilst still embracing the learning and development that the role provides.
I am a local businessman and operate currently as a national physical education consultant.
Outside of my professional roles I love to participate in sport and lead an active lifestyle, playing and coaching football for local teams and generally keeping fit and active.
My name is Susan Jones and I have been a governor at St Joseph’s for 2 years now. A new experience for me!
I enjoy most of the things being a governor involves mainly class activities, class masses, assemblies etc all involving the children. The technology not so much!
I love books and reading having worked in libraries prior to retirement . I have 9 grandchildren scattered all over the UK and love to spend time with them.
I attend mass at St Joseph’s church every Sunday and think it is important to foster the link between school and parish as much as possible .
My name is Sheila Ashcroft and I have been a Foundation Governor at St Joseph's for approximately two years. I have lived in Leigh all my life and have two adult children. I retired a few years ago but still do a few days a month in a care setting which I really enjoy. I attend St Joseph's Church regularly where I volunteer as a reader, I have also helped in the past preparing children for the sacrament of reconciliation. I have three grandchildren who have all attended St Joseph's School and the youngest has recently joined Year 2. I hope I can bring my caring and social skills to help the happy, confident development of all the pupils.
My name is Stuart Park and I became a Parent Governor at St. Joseph’s in November 2024. My son is currently in Reception and I am proud to say that I also attended St. Joseph’s as a child, which makes the school very special to me.
I am a Signalling and Telecoms Maintenance Engineer with 15 years of experience in the rail industry. Over the years, I have developed a passion for mentoring apprentices and degree students, as well as promoting STEM subjects as a STEM ambassador. I am enthusiastic about teaching and learning and look forward to using my skills to support the school’s development.
In my free time, I enjoy spending time with my family and playing sports. I am committed to giving back to the school and helping create a positive and inspiring learning environment for all children.