A summary of our latest meeting...

 

On Monday 9^th November, the school governors held our latest Zoom meeting.  The first hour of the meeting was the annual audit review meeting with the school’s external auditors. 

Following the successful conclusion of the audit review, we started our full governing body meeting.  As always, the minutes of the previous meeting were reviewed and approved before any matters arising were dealt with.

Whilst sharing key news, Mr Cowling discussed the procedures in place to minimise the risk posed by Covid-19.  This included the changes made in light of the current second lockdown.  It was reassuring to hear that there has been no in-school transmission of the virus at all since the return to school of pupils.

We discussed Mr Cowling’s Headteacher’s report which included updates regarding staffing, behaviour, welfare, personal development, leadership, safeguarding, finance, policies and health and safety.  Mr Cowling explained that the school development plan for 2020-21 was finalised and that, due to the impact of lockdown, the targets are carried over and extended from the previous academic year.  The priorities are:

1)      Improve standards in the teaching and learning of reading.

2)      To review the curriculum and embed curious and creative opportunities across all aspects of learning.

3)      Promote Fosse Way to increase the school roll.

4)      Create a mentally healthy school.

We have previously heard about the progression that has been made towards these priorities and look forward to hearing more in future meetings.

Whilst discussing pupil welfare, Mr Cowling explained that on Friday of half-term, he spent the day giving out/delivering food parcels which had been donated by a group called The Cricketers (a faith group organised by a parent). The school has written to thank the group for this very generous act.

It was also lovely to learn about the children’s active role in the community.  Recently, they have created Remembrance Day artwork in order to create a display for the local police station.

 

The School Council has chosen to support Children in Need on November 13th with a set of physical challenges that the children will become involved in for donations.

Time was also spent discussing assessment and standards in school.  Mr Coupland reported that lessons and provision groups continued to be informed by on-going assessments.  He also explained that children in Years 2 to 6 will soon be completed some formal assessments.  These will provide teachers with very useful unit analysis to ensure class provision and intervention groups continue to help children progress and catch up following lockdown.  All of this information will also allow the school to plan to spend the catch up premium appropriately.

It was pleasing to hear that the vast majority of children have enjoyed a very positive return to school and were enjoying being back in school and learning with their friends.  For the few individuals struggling with the transition, school are providing personalised support and are making use of external agencies where appropriate.

Next, Mr O’Halloran gave an update regarding the school’s bid for funding in order to modify the heating system in school.  It is hoped that the majority of this work will be carried out during the summer holidays. 

The final part of our meeting focused on the progress made toward the school development priority to promote Fosse Way.  Usually, at this time of year, school leaders enjoy showing prospective parents and children around school in preparation for the school admissions process to begin.  Sadly, due to the current pandemic, this isn’t possible therefore the school has worked with a professional film making company to create a short film sharing the school’s ethos and values.  The whole governing body watched the film and were very impressed.  We look forward to sharing this on social media very soon so watch this space! 

The film will also form the introduction to a virtual open day which we will be hosting soon.