Blog 7- Pupil Voice Ask the Qs!

Why did you choose this role?

My own children came to Kea School, so when the opportunity arose to become a governor, it seemed very appropriate. From there, I became Chair of Governors. I chose this role because I’ve known Kea School for a very long time, and it’s a school that’s very close to my heart.

What do you think is special about Kea School?

That’s a good question. Kea School has a very good reputation. Knowing how well my own sons did here really shows that. They came to Kea, then went to Penair and Truro College. Two of them went on to Oxford University, to Wadham College, and they’ve all gone on to have good jobs and make a living. I think Kea School gave them a very good start in life, and that makes it very special. A child’s primary school education is incredibly important.

Was this your dream role?

It’s one of my dream roles. I do quite a few things. I also love being an usher at the Hall for Cornwall, and some of you may have seen me when you came to see Aladdin. I suppose I’ve got almost two dream roles. Another is being a grandmother and doing family things. I’ve got lots of nice dream roles, but this is definitely one of them.

What challenges do you face in your role?

I think communication is the biggest challenge. It’s about finding out what’s going on in the school, whether people are happy, and whether the children are doing well. The atmosphere in the school is excellent, and hopefully that will continue. It’s also about making sure people feel they have the resources they need. Resources are the bits and bobs you need to do things — for example, if you’re cooking, you need ingredients like oranges. Everything costs money: resources, staff, and equipment. As governors, we need to make sure the school is financially secure.

You’ve got a great team here, a fabulous head teacher, and wonderful children. As governors, we’re responsible for the strategy and overall running of the school, working closely with the head teacher to make sure everyone has the support and resources they need.

What does your role include?

My role involves supporting staff and making sure children are happy and doing well. We oversee the school’s finances, and every half term someone reviews how the money is being spent. We make sure government funding is used appropriately, that staffing is suitable, policies are followed, parents are happy, and children enjoy school. You won’t learn much if you’re not happy.

We work as a team of governors — there can be up to twelve, and we currently have nine. Each governor has different responsibilities. As Chair of Governors, I liaise most closely with the head teacher, staff, and hopefully the children too.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

Spending time with the children and seeing you all. I’ve had three sons, I’ve got grandchildren, and I’ve been a trustee at the preschool for over a dozen years. Children are incredibly important. If you can get the first 11 or 12 years right, with the support and skills you need, it makes such a difference.

I love meeting you, watching your productions, and just picking up on the atmosphere in the school. Children always come first for me. I truly believe the most important thing in any school is making sure children receive a really good education.

What does a day in your life look like as Chair of Governors?

It varies a lot. Sometimes I come in to sign things — especially if they involve spending larger amounts of money. I also attend school performances, which I really enjoy, and chat with teachers to make sure they have what they need and are enjoying their jobs.

I’m not involved every day because the school is run by the staff, but I’m always available to support the head teacher. Even when I’m abroad, I can be contacted by email or through online meetings. Other governors can step in too — it’s very much a team effort.

What is your favourite part of the role?

Watching school performances. I really enjoyed the one last night — some of you were absolutely wonderful. I also loved it when you came to see Aladdin at the Hall for Cornwall. Seeing children enjoying themselves is the best part of the role.

Did you see yourself becoming a governor?

Having been a teacher and a head teacher for many years, I suppose it was quite likely. It’s helpful for a head teacher to have a Chair of Governors who understands the role and can empathise. Empathy means understanding what someone else is going through. Being Chair of Governors is challenging, but also exciting and rewarding. You’ve got a marvellous head teacher and lovely staff here, which makes it a joy.

What do you do to help make the school better?

I think the school already has strong leadership and staff. My role is to support the head teacher, be accessible to parents and staff, and help with communication. I also look out for grants and opportunities that can bring extra resources into the school. Mostly, it’s about being supportive, positive, and kind. Supporting people and helping them can never be underestimated.