Ridgeway School looking for new parent governors

Do you have a child studying at Ridgeway School in Plympton?

If so, then Ridgeway School would like to hear from you. They are looking for new parent governors to join the existing committee.

“Being a parent governor can be rewarding, stimulating and enjoyable,” said Paul Hutchings, Chair of Governors. “And it’s a very exciting time to join us as from September we will have a new name, uniform and logo and the school is undergoing some multi-million pound developments.”

James Maaskant and Alison Chapple are parent governors and both agree that it’s an interesting and worthwhile role.

“When you become a school governor it’s not about your child and their friends it’s about the whole school and the good of everybody there,” said Alison, who has been a school governor at Ridgeway for 18 months.

“I am passionate about education. When my daughter started primary school I became a school governor because I wanted a better understanding and I wanted to learn about the education system. So when she started at Ridgeway I wanted to continue being a school governor.”

Both have the same opinion that everyone has skills they can offer and bring to the role.

“Everyone has valuable skills,” said James Maaskant, who has been a parent governor since 2011. “And the skills you learn as a parent governor are transferable. The role not only gives you a great insight into how schools in general work but it’s also great for personal development.”

Both Alison and James say that people shouldn’t be put off by how much work is involved or be concerned about not fitting in or understanding.

“You are committed to six meetings a year and after that you can choose how committed you want to be, “said James. “There is also great training available from the Local Authority and you are not alone there is lots of support.”

Alison agrees and says she asked lots of questions in the beginning. “When I joined Ridgeway School as a parent governor I felt very welcome. I feel listened to and valued. If someone is interested I would say come along and meet everyone and then decide.”

If you are interested in becoming a parent governor please contact Tracey Overton at overtont@ridgeway.plymouth.sch.uk for more information.