education style
‘I want to see the school thrive’: one Sussex governor’s experience
A parent’s view: the mum governor
Stephen Ulph has been a governor at Great Walstead in Lindfield, the largest standalone prep school in Sussex, for six years. Great Walstead, which Stephen’s three children have all attended, likes to appoint governors with a strong association with the school or experience in the field of education.
Being the owner of an human resources consultancy was particularly pertinent when Tracy Humphrey became a Foundation Governor at Holy Trinity C.E.(A) Primary School in Cuckfield as the headteacher resigned at the first meeting she attended.
As a director of Oriole Construction Ltd Stephen’s expertise in the building industry has been useful in the planning of the future development of the school. His involvement as a governor has included overseeing the commissioning and budgeting of specific building and maintenance projects for the fabric of the school. These projects have kept him particularly busy recently and he estimates he is spending two to three days per month on school governor business. Nevertheless, he enjoys his role.
Although she is also a parent Tracy was appointed by the church (which is common practice for church schools). She finds the role rewarding but admits it can be quite a feat to juggle the demands of running THR Consulting and family life with the role of a school governor. Last year she became co-chair of the board of governors and spends roughly one day per week on governor duties during term time.
‘I want to see Great Walstead thrive so my future grandchildren can experience the same wonderful opportunities my children have,’ says Stephen. ‘If you can recognise that you have helped others make a difference that’s all the reward you need.’
‘We can’t have a great school without a really good head and team of staff, but the governors can set the tone, push for higher standards and support them too,’ explains Tracy. ‘We do not necessarily accept things as they are presented. This ensures checks and processes are working well to safeguard the school from different risks.’
FIND OUT MORE For further information on becoming a governor, visit the following sites: Governors for Schools: sgoss.org.uk / National Governors’ Association: nga.org.uk East Sussex County Council: eastsussex.gov.uk/educationandlearning/schoolgovernors West Sussex County Council: westsussex.gov.uk/learning
september 2014 | sussexst yle .c o m | 6 9