Katja Purvis – Chair of Governors

I have had the pleasure of being a Governor at St Michael’s for over 10 years now starting once my youngest child was in Nursery here. All three of my children attended St Michael’s from 3-11 years old and now go to DCHS with the youngest in year 8 and oldest year 12.

We live in a rural area on the farm that I have worked for for the past 30 years. I deal with all the farm accounts as well as bookkeeping for other local businesses.

Living in such a beautiful area I am happiest away from the computer and out on the hills with our dog. I am passionate that children at St Michael’s experience all the extra curricular activities that we can offer them – be that a variety of sport, music, art or volunteering.

Alison Burden – Governor

As an executive head teacher of a federation of schools in South Tyneside I have been fortunate enough to work with primary children throughout my career spanning 34 years. I also work alongside other schools and colleagues as a school improvement adviser. This is a wonderful opportunity to share and support good practice. 

I am extremely lucky to live in a beautiful village in Northumberland which is a perfect setting for my 2 dogs and boisterous grandson!

It is a privilege to be a governor at St Michael’s Primary School at such an exciting time in their journey.

Rev Christian Mitchison – Governor

I was appointed Vicar of St Michael’s Church, Alnwick, in May 2023 having moved up from Heathfield in East Sussex where I was the Vicar for six years. I previously served my Curacyin the East Sussex market town of Uckfield. I was an ex-officio governor of a federation of two church schools for six years, and oversaw the transition from single school to federation. As well as taking a keen interest in ensuring that the distinctive Christian
character and ethos of the school is developed and enhanced, I am also able to draw on my extensive background in strategic leadership from my previous career in the horseracing and construction industries.

I enjoy walking in the beautiful Northumberland hills, running
(not very far or very well!), reading and I’m an avid Formula 1 fan!

Jackie Chevaughan – Vice Chair

Danielle Harvey – Parent Governor

Gavin Johnston – Headteacher

Victoria Molnar-Brown – Parent Governor

Sue Lockey – Staff Governor

John Cooke – Governor

Mike Samuels – Governor