Meet our Governors

Becky Buckley Chair of Governors	I have been a governor at CHI for seven years, as Chair of the Children, Community and Safeguarding committee, and now as Chair of Governors. I am a court stenographer, and used to do subtitling for film and TV. More recently I spent some years as a governance professional for a local secondary school. My children have all loved it here, one of them still being at the junior school. Being a governor is my way of giving back; I really appreciate having the opportunity to offer practical support to this incredible, nurturing school.
Tim Sandford Vice Chair of Governors	I began my journey as a parent governor in 2021 when my eldest son started at the school. Having watched both of my children flourish here, I have gained a deep appreciation for the school's commitment to providing a supportive and enriching educational experience. In 2025, my term as a parent governor concluded, and I was pleased to become a Co-opted Governor. With a background as a secondary music teacher, facilitator, and now a leader in music education, I have spent my career championing high-quality education. My experience has shown me the profound impact that a child's early education has on their development. I am passionate about using my skills to support our dedicated school staff and ensure every student has the opportunity to succeed. I am committed to working with our community to maintain and improve our school's high standards.
Catherine Amulen Vice Chair of Governors	With a background in the Criminal Justice System, I bring expertise in leadership, public protection, risk assessment and team management to my role as a school governor. I am passionate about safeguarding and committed to building strong partnerships with families, staff, and local organisations. I joined the governing board to contribute to a safe, inclusive environment where every child can thrive. My experience supporting diverse teams and navigating policy ensures I can positively influence school culture, prioritise wellbeing, and help drive continuous improvement for children and the wider school community.
Claire Cook Headteacher	I joined Coombe Hill Infant School as Headteacher in September 2025 bringing three years’ experience of leading an infant school and a strong background in SEND. I am passionate about setting high expectations for every child and believe all pupils deserve to thrive in an inclusive, supportive environment. I am committed to working collaboratively with staff, governors, families, and the wider community to ensure Coombe Hill Infant School continues to flourish. I have a proven track record of school improvement and expertise in SEND, I am dedicated to nurturing both academic excellence and personal development for all pupils. I look forward to building on the school’s successes and driving continuous improvement.
Chiara Marcelline Co -opted Governor	As a former Coombe Hill pupil and now a parent of children at the Junior school, being a Governor is a meaningful way to give back to a place that holds deep personal significance. I’m continually inspired by the passion, kindness and professionalism of the school team. Professionally, I work in corporate communications; leading teams, managing issues and stakeholders, making strategic decisions and simplifying complexity. I believe passionately that children should have the best possible start in life, and I try to bring my skills and energy to my role as Governor, supporting the school’s continued success and helping ensure every child thrives in a nurturing environment.
Tina Jacob Co-opted Governor	I was voted as a Co-Opted Governor in April 2025. As a parent, I was interested in the way the school is governed and wanted to contribute to this process. My skills as a practicing Barrister enable me to scrutinise the way in which government policies are being applied at the school; monitor and evaluate the school’s strategic direction and be able to discuss wide-ranging issues openly with a diverse group of people. As a Mediator, my skills enable me to listen, ask questions but also be mindful to use conciliatory language and tone to resolve issues for the benefit of all. My role as a Governor at CHI has been a highly rewarding experience.
Stephanie Carran Parent Governor	I was elected by parents as a Parent Governor in April 2025.
Mark Bennett Associate Member	I was recently elected to support CHI’s fantastic governing board in 2023 as an Associate Member. Professionally, I have over 15 years of experience in the UK’s energy market, working on Net Zero propositions. Knowing how much the school will invest in my family over the coming years, it seems only fair that I try to contribute back to the school and the community where I can. For me, getting governance right is important because of its significant impact on the quality of educational provision and the opportunity and life chances of CHI's children.
Simone Bryan Associate Member	I joined as an Associate Member in 2025 because the school is at the heart of the community in which I live, and I wanted to undertake volunteer work that will benefit my local community. I am a governance professional with many years of experience working in large organisations within the public sector. Through my work I have been afforded the opportunity to gain skills in the development of organisational strategy, corporate governance and in delivering projects that increase inclusivity in the workplace. I’m very grateful for the opportunity to utilise these skills in my role as associate governor.
Michaela Nicolas Associate Member	I became an Associate Member at Coombe Hill Infants in July 2025 as I want to contribute to the community and help the next generation. As a reception class parent I am excited to support the school in its continuing journey. I have a background in law, having worked as a solicitor in both Australia and the City. Before that, I had 10 years’ experience in retail and hospitality, involving numerous people facing roles. I am also interested in health and wellbeing. I hope to provide a considered and balanced perspective to my role on the governing body.
Mehdi Kadhim Associate Member	I became an Associate Member in July 2025. I am rejoining the Governing Body, having previously served as Chair of the Resources and Health & Safety Committee at Coombe Hill Infants until 2021. Professionally, I have over 20 years’ experience in financial services. Most recently, as a Group Transformation Officer responsible for change, procurement, and workplace functions. Prior to that, I held a number of senior leadership roles, including Chief Executive Officer of a UK asset management business, as well as senior positions across retail banking, wholesale banking and wealth management.
Lisa Matheson Staff governor	I am currently on the teaching team at Coombe Hill Infant School and am excited to begin my new role after being elected as a Staff Governor. I have over ten years of experience teaching across schools in inner London and love being part of the Coombe Hill community. I lead on the teaching of phonics and early reading and have a strong passion for early childhood development. I am looking forward to learning more about the governance and strategic side of the school in this new role.
Sue Jakob Associate Member