Wokingham

Over 100 school governors from the Wokingham district came together last month (June 14) at their annual conference, making it their most inspirational and successful ever!

Held at Easthampstead Park, the theme of the conference was ‘The best for every Wokingham district child’ and governors had the chance to network and meet key officers and members from Wokingham District Council to discuss future projects and initiatives.

Wokingham Governors also had the opportunity to listen to keynote speakers including Sir John Jones, a former headteacher and governor. He currently teaches on the Masters course at Liverpool University specialising on the leadership of change and is a member of the leadership and development unit, sponsored by the National College of School Leadership. Sir John in his own inimitable style spoke about his experiences with children, young people and educational professionals he has worked with over the years. His overall message to all the school governors was that the positive attitude of people working with children can change lives and shape their future prospects regardless of their background.

The governors also attended three workshops including one on extended services in schools and children’s centre. A presentation was given by Mike Welsh, a headteacher from Swindon, who described how his school successfully integrated a children’s centre and he explained about lessons they had learnt whilst developing this project. Wokingham Governors were also informed of plans to create children’s centres in the Wokingham district.

Another workshop looked at the challenges governors face in developing the school curriculum. Council officers gave governors a guide to understanding how they can provide more talented pupils with a more tailored curriculum. The final workshop saw a presentation on the remodelling of children and young people’s services within the district, which will include neighbourhood teams.

Wokingham Cllr Frank Browne, executive member for children’s services, said: “It was the most successful conference that we have held and that was down to the very informative keynote speaker and useful workshops. Many found it truly inspirational, entertaining and thought provoking.”

Fran Cooke, governor, said: “It was very refreshing to spend time in the company of so many people who understand the importance of education in everyone's life. Being a
governor involves you in learning all the time, and the conference was an excellent opportunity to learn, and gave us all the message that we have something to contribute. It also gave us the chance to consider how to improve the input governors can provide to the schools they support.”

Wokingham district council currently has a number of governor vacancies in the district’s schools and is keen to hear from anyone who may be interested in volunteering for one of these positions.

Cllr Browne added: “We need people to become governors as they play an important part in the lives of the district’s pupils to ensure they received the best education possible. The district council welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds and walks of life.

“Being a governor is demanding, but worthwhile. But it is an opportunity for people to have their voice heard and influence the future of education in their area. Working as part of a team towards a common goal is also something that governors find rewarding. We are keen to hear from anyone who may be interested.”

If you would like further information please contact the governor services team on (0118) 974 6165 or by email at: school.governors@wokingham.gov.uk

Wokingham District Council