I was asked to be a Foundation Governor for Ponthir Voluntary Controlled Primary School by my parish priest when an existing Governor stepped down after many years service. I am a member of All Saints Church in Llanfrechfa, which has very close links with the school. I was surprised to be invited to be a Governor since I do not have children of my own and my only experience of the education system was as a pupil many, many years ago. However, I met Mrs Baker, the Head Teacher, to discuss my appointment and she quickly reassured me that the skills I had gained during a long career in the Civil Service would be very valuable in helping to run the school. I was attracted to the role because it would allow me to contribute to my local village community and provide an opportunity to learn about the education system, which is so important for all our futures.
The most rewarding aspects are always associated with the children. Creating an environment where children are safe and happy, where they are able to reach their full potential and go on to achieve great things is very rewarding. Ponthir has a reputation for turning out highly educated and well rounded children, who show respect for each other and for those they meet outside school. We frequently receive glowing comments about their behaviour. Full credit goes to Mrs Baker, the teachers, support staff, parents and all those who help out at the school - as well as the Governors.
As your readers will know, the past eighteen months have been very difficult for Ponthir with the threat of closure hanging over the school and we were all delighted when Jane Davidson decided to keep the school open. A key priority for the coming year will be to promote the school and build up the school roll following this period of uncertainty. Since the decision to stay open, a number of children have joined the school or will join at the start of the new school year in September. We have applied for Voluntary Aided status, which will strengthen our links with the Church in Wales, and a decision is expected from the Welsh Assembly any time now. The Governing Body is developing a marketing strategy, which will emphasise: the Christian ethos of the school; the high standard of teaching; happy, high achieving, well rounded pupils; a track record of excellent SATs results; a full curriculum; a wide range of extra-curricular activities; a beautiful location providing an ideal learning environment; next door to new nursery providing wrap-around care from 8 am until 6 pm. As Governors, we will continue to work closely with the Head Teacher to maintain this high quality learning environment within the available funding, whilst looking forward and preparing for the future.
Suzanne Norton
Governor - Ponthir VC Primary School
