Devon Association of Governors - Run by Devon Governors for Devon Governors
Latest News
New Awards for Governing Bodies
For the first time, in 2009, NGA will be presenting awards to governing bodies. See NGA page for more details.
(9 October 2008)
Without prejudice or endorsement, DAG brings Soundfield Systems to the attention of GBs.
Soundfield Systems have isued an invitation for those interested to attend a Soundfield seminar. This has been arranged by PC Werth but is supported by DCC. Read more on our Education Services page.
(7 October 2008)
Single Point of Entry Consultation
There is very shortly to be a consultation with parents, schools, pre-schools and all interested bodies on whether Devon county schools should move to a single point of entry for Reception classes. See email from Andrew Brent.
(6 October 2008)
Without prejudice or endorsement, DAG brings Groupcall to the attention of GBs. In Groupcall's own words:
“We offer a parental contact messaging service designed to reduce costs and improve communication to all stakeholders . . . ” Read more on our Education Services page.
(6 October 2008)
New NGA South West Regional Director
At the Regional NGA Meeting at Taunton on 4th October John Pay was elected Regional Director for an initial year, supported by (the new post of) Assistant Regional Director, Christopher Pearce.
John Pay is from Poole and Christopher Pearce from Gloucestershire.
(4 October 2008)
Clerk of the Year Award
Devon's Governing Bodies are supported by some outstanding Clerks and we have an opportunity to recognise their work through nomination for the 2009 Clerk’s Award. If your Clerk is outstanding, or if you know of such a Clerk, then please take the time to submit a nomination form by 5 December 2008.
(3 October 2008)
Mutual Expectations
In spring 2008, NGA, ASCL and NAHT met to discuss the effectiveness of governing
bodies. It was acknowledged that there can be a lack of clarity about what is
expected for a governing body to be effective, from both school leaders and
governing bodies themselves, and that some guidance would be helpful to all
parties. The resulting paper is:
What governing bodies
should expect from school leaders and what school leaders should expect from
governing bodies.
(30 September 2008)
Just occasionally a paper or report generates more light
than heat and the Third Report of Session 2007-08 on Testing and Assessment by
the House of Commons Children, Schools and Families Committee, appears to do
just that and is commended to you. Read the
Conclusions
and recommendations.
(28 September 2008)
Practical training for involving children and young people in your work
This popular course will be held on 14th October at the Ockment Centre, cost £15 for voluntary groups and £25 for statutory organisations. The last course was fully booked within a week - so you are advised to book early if you are interested in attending. The last course was fully booked within a week - so we advise you book early if you are interested in attending.
For the booking procedure see
Practical tools for involving
children and young people in your work.
(28 September 2008)
Without prejudice or endorsement, DAG brings Naturalwatt to the attention of GBs. In Naturalwatt's own words:
“We have a fantastic story for schools, the children, the environment, and, for Naturalwatt . . . ” Read more on our Education Services page.
(27 September 2008)
National Conference for Employee Governors
The first ever National Conference for Employee Governors sponsored by HTI, is taking place on October 14. The conference will provide insight into government policy and understanding of how employee governors can use their skills, knowledge and experience to maximum effect. Speakers include Ed Balls MP, Secretary of state for Children, Schools and Families, Bob Wigley - Deputy Chairman, Business in the Community, John Dunford OBE - General Secretary, Association of School and College Leaders and Mick Brookes - General Secretary, National Association of Head Teachers.
If you’re interested or would like more information then click here for further information or visit the governors’ conference website at www.governors-conference.com where you can register and pay for a place at the conference.
DAG will subsidise £200 for the first 3 governors to apply. Please contact David Tall to let him know you have applied.
(26 September 2008)
Pathfield Special School: Proposal to establish a Behaviour, Emotional and Social Difficulties (BESD) Unit
Devon County Council Local Authority, following consultation, have issued a Public Notice on the proposal to add, from 1 September 2009, a 25 day place Behaviour, Emotional and Social Difficulties (BESD) Unit for children aged 10-16 at Pathfield Special School in Barnstaple.
The Public Notice and further information can be accessed on line at http://www.consultationfinder.com/devon by typing 'pathfield' into the 'title' box.
Within six weeks from the date of publication of these proposals, any person may object to or make comments on the proposal up to and including 5:00pm on Thursday, 21 August 2008, by sending the representations to Karen Crockwell, Senior School Organisation Officer, CYPS, Devon County Council, Room 120, County Hall, Topsham Road, Exeter, EX2 4QG; by email to ; or by completing the on-line feedback form at the above website.
The above website will continue to be updated as matters progress.
(11 July 2008)
Draft proposal for unitary local government in Devon
Public Consultation Stage - Get involved in the Devon Boundary Review
Read the Boundary Committee Devon Structural Review
As a guide for action read Boundary Review - DAG Guidance
(9 July 2008)
Devon County Health & Safety Service
An important note from Margaret Bullock, County Health & Safety Manager, Devon County Council
“I am writing to inform you of some important changes to the health and safety support you currently receive. During late 2007 a comprehensive review of the health & safety provision across the County Council was undertaken. The review identified a number of strengths and also some opportunities for change. The outcome is that from 1st July 2008 the arrangement of six separate H&S services has been reorganised into a single County Health & Safety Service.
“Some of the key changes include:
• Additional services to the existing SLA – at no extra cost
• Full training portfolio to be provided from September 2008
• Updated Health & Safety
Manual on the Intranet from September
– with a copy of all documents
provided on a disc on request
• Access to a fuller range of specialists and services
• From September the helpline will be manned by H&S Advisers
“Use the following links for a copy of the Health & Safety training opportunities for the autumn term, a booking form and a list of the staff in the team.
“Your named Adviser will contact you at the beginning of the autumn term to introduce themselves and to arrange a visit. In the meantime, if you require any further information, please do not hesitate to contact me directly or the H&S helpline on 01392 382027”
(3 July 2008)
NGA Governors’ Opinion Survey
The NGA are asking Governors to take some time to take part in an opinion survey; the survey is being carried out by a professional Internet based survey company and the questions have been produced - and will be analysed - by a team at Bath University.
(3 July 2008)
NGA 2008 Summer Conference - Whose Curriculum is it anyway?
Saturday 21 June 2008
A Short Report on the conference from Judith Bennett, Chair of the National Governors’ Association.
(23 June 2008)
DAG MAY 2008 NEWSLETTER - INCORRECT INFORMATION
A paragraph in the May newsletter stated “You are reminded that from September 2008 it is mandatory for at least one member of any Recruiting Panel to have undergone training about Safer Recruitment.” THIS IS INCORRECT. No such date has been determined yet. I apologise for any confusion.
That said the remainder of the information about training courses is correct and if Governors wish to attend any training the headteachers will need to complete the registration on behalf of the governor. Log in details will then be sent to the governor through the post. Heads can register governors here.
David Tall EO to DAG
(22 June 2008)
The Gill Barnard Award
Gill Barnard was one of Devon’s highly valued Kitchen Managers who sadly passed away in 2005. In Gill's memory, The Children & Young People’s Directorate have created an annual award for School Catering Staff. Schools are encouraged to nominate a member of their catering team who has taken the time and effort to demonstrate a child centred approach to their work in the busy school-catering environment. Nominations must be made by the Headteacher, in a summary of no more than 250 words explaining why they think that the nominee deserves the recognition of this award. The nomination by the Headteacher should also be supported by artwork from the children. So why not think about who may be a suitable candidate for this award in your school kitchen and enlist the support of your Headteacher and pupils in putting together an entry to impress the judges! To be considered for this award and trophy, entries must be received by the end of the summer term. The winner will be notified at the start of the autumn term.
Please send your entries to:
Devon Catering & Cleaning Services,
Falcon Road, Sowton, Exeter EX2 7LB
DAG sees this award as a wonderful opportunity to express thanks to a number of people who do not often get the recognition they deserve.
(11 June 2008)
DAG Representatives on Schools Forum
DAG has representatives on a number of important LA Committees, but one of the more important and influential bodies is the Schools Forum. Currently there are 2 vacancies for DAG. Schools Forum
(9 June 2008)
Devon School Appeals Committee
Governors required to take part in the Appeals Process. At present Devon is currently experiencing a shortage of volunteers in the central/northern parts of Devon willing to serve. School Appeals Committee
(16 May 2008)
Devon CYPS Mediation Service
Governing Bodies in Devon will be interested to know of the existence of a
Mediation Service offered by the Devon County Children and Young Peoples
Service. CYPS Mediation
Service leaflet
(16 May 2008)
It is with the greatest sadness that we announce the death of John Gale.
John served as a DAG Executive Committee Member for some years up to his untimely passing. He was a warm, friendly and caring gentleman, who devoted much time and effort on behalf of Devon Governors. A former teacher and highly experienced school governor, John cared deeply about the children and young people in his care whether in his classroom, on the outward bounding activities he led with such enjoyment and relish or in the broadest education terms. He was a valued colleague and friend, who will be much missed.
(14 May 2008)
NGA Summer Conference ‘Whose Curriculum is it Anyway?’
At Wolverhampton on Saturday 21 June.
DAG to provide funding to assist attendance of Devon governors.
(12 May 2008)
Major Review of School Governance
Members of the Working Group have been selected and Terms of Reference announced. See DAG Article for summary of this Government Review.
(9 May 2008)
NGA Comment on the Government Review of School Governance
Judith Bennett (Chair) and Phil Revell (Chief Executive) give their comments on the review. NGA comment . . .
(2 May 2008)
Study of the health needs of the population of Devon
Governors may be interested to know that Devon Primary Care Trust and Devon County Council recently undertook a Joint Strategic Review of health and social care in Devon. Together, we studied the health needs of the population and the way in which health and social care services are used. Review of health and social care . . .
(17 April 2008)
DAG is pleased to represented on a number of important LA bodies
One such is the Local Admissions Forum which is a mandatory body set up under the School Standards and Framework Act 1988. The Forum facilitates discussion between all admission authorities (Voluntary Aided, Foundation and LA Community Schools) on how best to organise admissions in the local area, in order to meet as many parents’ preferences as possible, and to reach agreement about difficult issues, such as providing school places and sharing pupils with challenging behaviour.
The Membership of Devon’s Forum has recently been revised in line with regulations issued by the DCSF. As well as the admission authorities mentioned above the Forum includes representation from community groups such as Parent Teacher Associations (PTAs), Devon Association of Governors (DAG) and neighbouring LAs to help ensure a consistent approach.
There is a vacancy for a Governor from a Community School. The Devon Forum meets approximately 3 times a year at regular intervals at County Hall, Exeter. The next meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, 15 July 2008 at 10.30 am. If you are interested please let David Tall know. He is also happy to provide more information on request.
(11 April 2008)
Conference 2008 “Tomorrow’s Schools”
Conference notes now available - see Conference 2008.
(10 April 2008)
School Exclusions Review Task Group
This DCC Task Group is inviting anyone with a view to share about issues relating to school exclusions in Devon, whether positive or negative, to contribute to the review. School Exclusions . . .
(26 March 2008)
New Maintenance Arrangements
Governors will be aware of the new maintenance arrangements for Non VA schools but DAG reminds you that the latest information dated 17 March requires immediate attention and action.
The letter has been sent to schools but can also be viewed
at here.
(19 March 2008)
Review of Local Government in Devon
Governors will be aware of the review of Local Government in Devon, by the Boundary Commission. The Local Authority have dedicated WebPages about this review at www.devon.gov.uk/devonreview.
These pages include information from the Boundary Committee and the Department of Communities and Local Government about the review process and background, frequently asked questions, a microsite jointly managed with Devon's District Councils which contains maps, performance data and statistical information relevant to the Review.
There is an online facility called "Ask Brian" for anyone who may wish to ask a question about the review or contribute views about improving local government in Devon. The LA will be updating the site regularly and providing additional content during the course of the review.
If Governors require any further information they should contact Peter Doyle at County Hall, email address .
(19 March 2008)
Comment on Corporate Manslaughter
Governors will have seen that the issue of Corporate Manslaughter has been raised on this website’s Discussion Board. DAG contacted the NGA for clarification and guidance and has received a response from Phil Revell, the CEO of the NGA. The Act comes into force on 6 April 2008 and so this is a timely paper.
Read Phil Revell’s
Comment on Corporate
Manslaughter
(11 March 2008)
Public Notice: Sherford Primary School
Proposals to establish a new Primary School at Sherford, providing 420 places for pupils aged 3-11.
The proposals relating to the establishment of the new primary school at Sherford have now reached the next stage. A public notice has been issued today (22/2/2008) which summarises the two bids received from potential promoters. View this notice at www.consultationfinder.com/devon by typing ‘Sherford’ in the title box. This same link will also provide access to copies of the full bids.
The notice provides six weeks up until and including 5.00pm on Friday 4 April 2008 for any person to object to or make comments on the proposals. There will be a public meeting held on Tuesday 4 March 2008 and further details of this are contained in the notice.
Kate Pearson, School Organisation Admin Assistant, Devon CYPS
(22 February 2008)
Governors volunteer for Job Evaluation Appeals Process
Following the recent request for Governors to volunteer to assist with the school based Job Evaluation (JE) appeals process, DAG has received this message from Devon Governor Support Services.
“Please could you through your network thank all governors who have volunteered to help with the school based JE appeals process. More than 50 governors came forward and I have passed all the names on to the JE team. They will be in touch within the next couple of weeks with training dates.”
We pass this on with pleasure and add thanks to all those volunteers.
(20 February 2008)
Children’s Trust Bulletin - February 2008
The latest issue of the Children’s Trust Bulletin is now
available at:
www.devonchildrenstrust.org.uk/dct-bulletin-feb08.pdf
(1,120KB)
In this issue: news on the new Devon Children and Young People’s Plan; launch of the Children’s Services Directory; Young People’s Achievement Awards voting opens; Devon’s first youth crime prevention strategy - Children First; 60 second guide to the Local Area Agreement (LAA).
Please print off copies and distribute to any staff who don’t have internet access. If you want to contribute to the next issue of the Bulletin contact Louise Raymond on 01392 383578 or .
(18 February 2008)
Job Evaluation Appeals Process Update
The Job Evaluation appeals process continues to be rolled out and by the end of February it is hoped that every member of staff, except school support staff, who has registered an intention to appeal will have been contacted by letter to confirm that they wish to proceed.
Read the
Job Evaluation Joint
Update
(60KB)
(15 February 2008)
The Devon Maintenance Partnership
Governing Bodies will be aware that Promis IV folds on 31 March 2008 and will be replaced by The Devon Maintenance Partnership.
A Consultation Document and draft Service Level Agreement have been sent to all schools but are replicated on this site for completeness. In particular GBs are invited to pass any comments through their Schools' Organisation Forum representative and DAG reminds GBs that those reps are those named in the Representatives section of the website. Notwithstanding any comments are probably best passed by e-mail to David Tall, who will ensure they are passed to the correct individual.
Read the
Consultation Document
(42KB)
Read the Service Level Agreement
(38KB)
(11 February 2008)
Unitary Update
The latest from Phil Norrey on the terms of reference for a review of local government across Devon by the independent Boundary Committee for England. The Committee is a statutory committee of the Electoral Commission and is responsible for reviewing the structure, boundaries and electoral arrangements of local government in England.
Read the
Unitary Update
(80KB)
(6 February 2008)
Teaching Awards
DAG wishes to remind you that nominations for this year’s Teaching Awards, including an award for Governors, closes at midnight on 1 March 2008. Further details can be found at www.teachingawards.com.
(5 February 2008)
Clerks get Edexcel Level 3 Clerks BTEC Award
DAG was delighted to learn of the following Clerks to Devon Governing Bodies who have been successful in obtaining the Edexcel Level 3 Clerks BTEC Award. They were presented with their certificates by Roger Fetherston, Head of Devon Curriculum Services, on 31st January 2008 at Great Moor House, Exeter.
The 4 Clerks are:
Nancy Drake - Clerk to the Governing Body at Dawlish Community College
Maggie Dunlop - Clerk to the Governing Body at Clyst Heath Nursery & Community Primary School and Clyst St Mary Primary School
Ann Inman - Clerk to the Governing Body at Horrabridge Community Primary School
Pete Osborne - Clerk to the Governing Body at Bradley Barton School & Nursery Unit and Haytor View Community Primary School
Our warmest congratulations to them all.
(4 February 2008)
Devon pupils demonstrate their dance skills
There are 5 opportunities in March to see Devon pupils demonstrate their dance skills. For further information phone Liz Hill on 01392 385214 / 385215 to ask about 3D A Chance to Dance.
(4 February 2008)
Parent Governors needed at Barley Lane Special School in Exeter
Devon Governor Support Services have received a plea for help from the Chair of Governors at Barley Lane Special School in Exeter. They cannot recruit parent governors and are looking for up to five people to join the Governing Body who fulfil the 'parent governor criteria. As the school is so desperate almost anybody who is or has ever been a parent will tick the box - even better that they could come in with some governor experience. The school is on the edge of Exeter at the top of Dunsford Hill - next door to the old Crossmead Conference centre. It caters for boys with emotional and behaviour difficulties in keystages 2 - 4, it only has about 40 pupils. Currently the school is experiencing major difficulties, but has appointed a new headteacher.
The Governing Body is led by a very experienced governor who was put onto the Governing Body by the Local Authority, he will look to step down from the Governing Body when when the school improves - hopefully in September this year. Any governor who is or has been a parent, feels they would like a fresh challenge and has some time to give, is very welcome to contact Debbie Clapshaw at .
(3 February 2008)
