Congleton High School

Richard Benson

Chair of Governors

Richard is a retired IT professional from AstraZeneca, where he led teams managing critical business systems. He began his governance journey as a Parent Governor and now serves as Chair of the Local Governing Body. With decades of experience, Richard has witnessed and supported significant changes at the school, serving on various sub-committees and as a Trustee. He is passionate about student success in all forms and continues to volunteer his time generously. A grandfather to current CHS students, Richard finds joy in seeing young people achieve their potential.

James Green

Co Vice Chair of Governors

James is a Senior Civil Servant at the Department of Education, with a background in public sector leadership and military service. He previously led the Institute of Government and Public Policy and served as a British Army officer for 20 years. James became a governor to support school leadership and governance. He enjoys fitness, history, football coaching, and serves in the Army Reserve. As a parent and local resident, he values contributing to the school’s development.

Jane Turner

Co Vice Chair of Governors

Jane brings to the governor role extensive executive-level experience in healthcare, with a strong background in education and training delivery. Her aim as a governor is to positively impact staff and pupils by sharing her professional expertise. Jane has a long-standing relationship with Congleton High School, having served as a governor for many years, including roles as Chair of subcommittees and Deputy Chair of Governors. Her governance is informed by her previous experience as a parent governor and her commitment to educational excellence. Jane is actively involved in her local community and enjoys theatre, walking, travel, tennis, and church activities. Her leadership and dedication continue to support the school’s strategic development and success.

Paul Horrocks

Co Vice Chair of Governors

Paul works at Keele University School of Medicine as a research scientist and educator, focusing on malaria and biomedical sciences. He became a parent governor over a decade ago to support the schools his children attended. Paul has served on multiple committees and has chaired a primary LGB. He enjoys walking in the countryside and socializing with friends. Paul values the opportunity to support school staff and to occasionally make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and families.

Katy Powell

Katy is a local business owner and experienced governor, having served at a primary school for a number of years. She joined CHS to better understand school operations and support its development. Katy specializes in welfare and safeguarding and is a parent to one (soon two) CHS students. She enjoys family walks with their pets and is enthusiastic about the school’s journey under a revitalised leadership.

Pete Turner

Pete is a consultant and government officer specializing in strategic change and operational resilience. His professional background equips him with governance skills, particularly in oversight and strategic planning. Pete’s commitment to service and volunteering led him to become a school governor. He is especially interested in supporting the school’s careers service. Outside of work, Pete enjoys surfing and music and holds trustee roles in local organizations.

Sam M. Worthington

Sam is a final-year PPE student at Durham University with experience in politics, banking, and risk advisory. A former student of Congleton High School, he became a governor to give back to the school that shaped his journey. His governance experience includes serving as Vice-Chair for Cheshire Constabulary’s Independent Advisory Group. Sam is passionate about strategic oversight and ensuring students receive a strong foundation for life. Outside of governance, he volunteers for an animal-free research charity, engages in local politics, and enjoys walking. His deep connection to Congleton and the school community drives his commitment to making a tangible impact.

Torfeh Sadat-Shafai

Professor Sadat-Shafai has held a variety of prestigious academic roles, including appointments at the University of Hamburg and Staffordshire University. His research in organic photovoltaics and leadership in renewable engineering have shaped numerous MSc and PhD projects. As a long-standing governor at Congleton High School, he contributed to curriculum development and helped the school achieve Engineering status. A dedicated parent and educator, he values CHS’s nurturing environment. His hobbies include woodwork, gardening, cooking, and walking.