S​chool Governors

Mr Chris Inch

Vice Chair of Governors
S​tart Date of Office: 01/12/2025

I am originally from Liverpool but have lived in Runcorn for over 30 years now and I am currently serving as Vice Chair. I am a retired Chartered Accountant and worked worldwide in industry for a number of blue-chip companies, including Cadbury chocolate. I was a local councillor in Halton ten years ago and served as a parent Governor for a primary school in Moore. When I retired, I thought it would be an opportunity to, once again, serve my local area and hence I have been a Grange Governor for three years. I am also the treasurer for a local charity, Halton Community Transport, who provide subsidised bus services for Runcorn and Widnes disabled residents.

M​r Stuart Freeman

Co-Opted Governor
S​tart Date of Office: 02/06/2025

I have over 25 years of teaching experience spanning primary, secondary, and further education and bring a deep commitment to inclusive learning and student wellbeing. My career has been dedicated to supporting pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), including those with Profound and Multiple Learning Disabilities (PMLD) and dyslexia.

Throughout my journey in education, I’ve held a variety of leadership roles including assistant headteacher, safeguarding lead, developing teachers and learning in the classroom, assistive technology, inclusive learning and pastoral management. Each role has strengthened my belief in the power of inclusive, pupil centred education.

I’m proud to serve as a school governor, where I support the strategic vision of the school and contribute to its continued growth and success. It’s a privilege to help shape an environment where every child can thrive.

Mrs Leeann Bellfield

Governor
S​tart Date of Office: 01/12/2025

I owe the school a great deal having completed all of my Primary, Secondary & Sixth Form education here, before completing a Geography degree at The University of Manchester, followed by a PGCE.I also have a daughter in Year 10 at the school.

M​rs L Downey

Staff Governor
S​tart Date of Office: 01/12/2025

I believe education creates opportunities that give every child options for their future. Here at school, my role within the Secondary SEND Team involves working closely with staff, families and external agencies to create inclusive, nurturing environments.

I chose to become a staff governor because I am passionate about supporting all students. As a parent myself, I understand the importance of creating a school where every child feels safe, valued, understood and supported to reach their full potential. I want to help shape strategic decisions that make this possible for all students.

What I hope to bring to the governing body is my frontline experience, commitment to equity and inclusion and a determination to help take our school from strength to strength.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and going on walks, which helps me recharge

M​rs C Abani

Staff Governor
S​tart Date of Office: 01/12/2025

I have worked at The Grange Academy for seven years as a Teacher of Geography, having completed my teacher training at the school. Being from Runcorn, I understand the context of the school and the community it serves. As a classroom teacher and form tutor, I am passionate about creating an inclusive and supportive environment for all students and have completed Anti-Racism Ambassador training with the Anthony Walker Foundation and Show Racism the Red Card. I chose to become a staff governor to support decision-making that benefits students and the wider community, helping to raise aspirations and expand opportunities for our students. Outside of work, I enjoy travelling, which influences my teaching and encourages students to engage with the wider world.

Naomi Ennis

P​arent Governor
S​tart Date of Office: 01/09/2026

I am delighted to be a Parent Governor at The Grange Academy, having previously attended the school when it was The Grange Comprehensive. It feels particularly special to now see my own children attend the school and to have the opportunity to give something back to a community that has been part of my life for many years.

I have a background in zoology and education, having worked as a zoologist, zookeeper and lecturer in Animal Studies. I am also the founder of Animal Teach, an educational business providing workshops, courses and resources for children and young people. Through my work, I am passionate about education, raising aspirations and helping young people recognise their strengths and the opportunities available to them.

As a Parent Governor, I am keen to contribute to a strong and positive school community, supporting effective communication and constructive relationships between the school, families and the wider community. I am particularly passionate about celebrating the opportunities available to pupils, encouraging them to explore their interests and helping every child to recognise their potential.

I am proud to support The Grange Academy's vision of being “a community that works together to create an exceptional learning journey for all” and its commitment to “Aspire for Excellence”. I look forward to playing my part in supporting the school, its pupils and its community to achieve this.