Meet Our Governors

Alison Massey (Co-opted Governor)

Chair of Governors

I have been a school governor for over 25 years in both Primary and Secondary schools.

I have lived most of my life in Northwich attending Victoria Rd Primary then Northwich County Grammar School for Girls. My Grandaughter attended Charles Darwin School when her family returned to Northwich and thoroughly enjoyed her time here. I first visited the school with her for the show around and felt what a friendly, community feel the school had, and saw the expectations from the staff for the students to achieve, behave and take pride in their work.

I have since helped with reading with students and when the opportunity arose felt I’d like to join the school community as a Governor, a role I find very rewarding helping the school move forward.

I have only been connected to the school for a short time ,but will commit the time and dedication to the school while in office.

Jenny Foulkes (Parent Governor)

I was elected as a parent governor in 2021 and was thrilled to take up the role. I was a pupil at Darwin St Primary in the 80s/90’s and currently have a daughter and a niece in the school. I have always lived in the area and the school is very special to me. I work for Motherwell Cheshire supporting women and girls in the local community. I have worked within the education system including as a secondary Art teacher and as an Education Welfare Officer for Cheshire West Council. I am a creative person, love art and crafts, holidays and have a dog called Lottie who we adore!

Hannah Bowers (Staff Governor)

I joined Charles Darwin in 2020 as a class teacher. Being fairly new to teaching, I can't wait to offer a fresh perspective. I have had the priviledge of working with many children and have enjoyed seeing them grow in understanding and confidence as their time in school progresses. I am delighted to represent the staff as Staff Governor at Charles Darwin.

Adam Carter (Co-opted Governor)

I joined the governing body in May 2024. I have worked in education since graduating, starting out as a Science teacher in Cumbria; I am now a deputy head teacher in a local secondary school. I am looking forward to bringing my knowledge of curriculum, school improvement strategy and wider experience to make a positive impact on the school.

Amanda Edwards (Co-opted Governor)

I am a serving Head teacher in a Cheshire East Primary school, with 10 years’ experience in this role. I also work as an Ofsted Inspector.

I am a qualified teacher with 26 years’ experience overall, having started out my teaching career at Charles Darwin Community Primary School back in 1999!

I have extensive senior management experience, both as a headteacher and executive headteacher in and across the Primary sector. My responsibilities have included quality assurance and working closely with individual departments to raise achievement, supporting other headteachers in developing curriculum design and raising standards within schools. I also work as a coach and am trained as a Senior Mental Health Lead.

Chidi Ezegwu (Parent Governor)

I joined the governing body in January 2025, bringing over 20 years of multifaceted experience spanning academia and the non-profit sector. I have earned diverse awards, scholarships, and research grants throughout my career, which have fueled my commitment to driving impactful change. I have served as a coach, training facilitator, lecturer, and research & development specialist on international development projects of organisations such as the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO), UNICEF, UNDP, UNFPA, and the World Economic Forum. For over a decade, I led numerous research in education and youth development and my works have been published in various academic journals and shared by major international development agencies, including the British Council, FCDO, UNESCO, and the World Economic Forum. I combine my extensive research expertise with a deep understanding of global development to promote evidence-based teaching strategies, education policies, and sustainable youth development practices.

Sam Dutton (Parent Governor)

I’m a 28-year-old town councillor passionate about driving positive change in my community. Alongside my role in public service, I work as an IT security engineer for the Royal British Legion, helping to protect critical systems that support veterans and their families. I am proud to have the privilege of now serving as a parent governor, advocating for students and families at Charles Darwin Primary School. 

As a parent of two, I strive to set an example of resilience, ambition, and personal growth. I’m currently working towards degrees in Philosophy and Psychology with the Open University, enhancing my understanding of human thought and behaviour. I am passionate about art, music and wellbeing (both physically and mentally), and I believe the skills I have accumulated allow me to provide a balanced, reasoned perspective. 

Outside of work and studies, I stay active by playing golf and training in Muay Thai, both of which challenge me physically and mentally. Whether in governance, cybersecurity, or personal development; my goal is to inspire, protect, and empower those around me.