Our Governors

  Mrs Sharratt

   Vice Chair of Governors

   Co-opted

I have been a Co-opted Governor at Birchfield for several years having fallen in love with the school as a parent when my two children were lucky enough to be pupils. Being part of the Governing Body has enabled me to contribute a little in making sure Birchfield continues to be a very special place, providing opportunities to be individually ambitious for all our children. Living in the same locality as many Birchfield families also allows me to see first-hand the impact our nursery school has in the community.

  Mrs Liku

   Headteacher

I’m Cathy Liku and I am the proud Headteacher of Birchfield Nursery School. I have been in education for almost 30 years in primary and early years settings but Birchfield is my home! 

  Mrs Magan

   Parent Governor

I’m Beth and I currently work at a local primary school as a year 4 teacher and key stage lead. I am very passionate about education and children receiving the best start to their academic journey. Following my daughter attending Birchfield Nursery and thriving I was very keen to become part of the governing body and support the staff to help children create great memories, long-lasting friendships and the best chance of success.

  Miss Stockton 

   Co-opted Governor 

My name is Kate Stockton and I am delighted to be a governor at Birchfield Nursery. I have been in post since Spring 2023 and am looking forward to continuing to support the nursery's children , families and staff in any way I can. I have been an EYFS teacher for 19 years. I currently work at The Grange Academy in Runcorn as Assistant Vice Principal. I am EYFS lead, KS1 lead and Phonics lead, I am also SENCo. I am passionate about EYFS being the absolute foundation for life and feel that children in this area of school deserve the absolute best opportunities. I have taught in Nursery, Reception and year 1 during my teaching career. I am the EYFS improvement lead across Wade Deacon Trust and support schools in their planning and implementation of their EYFS curriculum. The role allows me to support both at class-based level with provision, planning and curriculum and leadership level supporting strategic thinking of next steps for staff and the setting. I am an EYFS Expert for the DfE and working on the Covid Recovery Programme at the moment supporting leaders/owners of nurseries across the region as they overcome the issues that have been left by Covid. Outside work I love to keep fit, get out and about in the fresh air and spend time with the people who are important to me!

  Mrs Jones 

   Local Authority Governor 

Although originally from London, I have lived in Widnes since 1977 and enjoyed employment as a full time Youth & Community Worker in Halton for 27 years. Both my children (now parents themselves) attended schools in Widnes and my Grandson enjoyed a year at Birchfield nursery before starting school at Fairfield. I am now retired and care for my grandchildren 3 days a week. I enjoy trying to keep fit and am a member of a local Community Choir.

  Mrs Bancroft

   Co-opted 

I’m Louise Bancroft and I have been the Assistant Headteacher of Birchfield Nursery School since 2023.  

  Jennifer Harvey

   Co-opted 

My name is Jennifer Harvey, and I’m proud to join Birchfield Nursery as a newly appointed Co-opted Governor. Having lived in Widnes all my life—and as a former Birchfield pupil myself—I feel a deep connection to the school. Since my son began attending, I’ve seen firsthand the dedication of the staff and the joy it brings to the children. With a background in finance, I hope to support the school’s budgeting and planning, helping ensure resources are used wisely to benefit every child’s early development. Birchfield is a truly magical place, and I’m grateful to be part of its future.

  Helen Patrick 

   Staff Governor 

 I'm Helen Patrick and I have been part of Birchfield Nursery School as a Teaching Assistant for 12 years.

  Sarah Hazzard

   Parent Governor 

I'm Sarah Hazzard and i'm delighted to join Birchfield Nursery School as a newly appointed Parent Governor.  I have lived in Widnes all my life and even before I had my children, I knew I wanted them to attend here when the time came as I had always heard what a special and nurturing place it is. Having been lucky enough to have my daughter attend here this past year and see her growth and development is a testament to how true that statement is and how truly supportive, encouraging and devoted the staff are.  I am excited to join the Birchfield Governing team and have recently achieved a NCFE Level 3 Teaching Assistant Award.  I am hoping to soon move into this professional field as I have always had a passion and interest for early years education and how precious this time is with children.  I am looking forward to taking on this role and helping to continue to support the growth and development of Birchfield Nursery School.