Governor of the Year

Sally Birkbeck

SALLY Birkbeck has been described as a “tenacious chair of governors” for her work at Delius Special School in Bradford Moor.
In her role, she has been a champion for the recognition of the place of special schools in the local ‘family of schools’, bringing the needs of pupils to the attention of local policy-makers, elected members and teachers across the family of schools. 
She also takes an active, hands-on role in her position as a National Leader of Governance in contributing to better governance. 
She has supported chairs and governing boards facing challenging circumstances and has taken on additional responsibility as chair of the TRACKS Management Committee, responsible for the educational and emotional well-being of children in hospital, and young people unable to attend school because of severe anxiety and mental health issues. 
Head teacher Sally Joy said: “She is fantastic. She’ll do everything, but won’t ever want a thank-you for it. She does everything she needs to do and does it so well.
“She’s very much part of the day-to-day running of the school, as well as keeping us on the straight and narrow.”
Mrs Birkbeck said: “The school is an incredibly happy place, and the children here really light up our lives.”

Richard Moore

RICHARD Moore was nominated as Governor of the Year for his role as chair of governors at Sandal Primary School in Baildon.
The nomination said: “His quiet authority and good counsel continues to provide stability and support for a school continuing its journey to Good. 
“For a number of years Richard has unobtrusively supported better governance in unselfishly giving his energies and experience in many ways. These include appointment as an Additional Governor to help bring strategic direction and accountability to governance at a school where the governing board required greater capacity and the benefits of independent, external appraisal. 
“Richard has been there in giving fellow chairs personal support in facing new or complex challenges.”
Head teacher Louise Dale said: “He has been a major part of school improvement over the last few years. 
“His work shows that it is not an easy job, it is a long-term job.”
Mr Moore said: “I’ve worked all my life, and when I retired I thought I wanted to do something worthwhile.
“What can be more worthwhile than children’s education?
“I enjoy it, I don’t see it as a chore, I see it as something I want to do.”

Jackie Walters

JACKIE Walters was nominated for her hard work as chair of governors at Newby Primary School over 25 years.
In her time at the school, Newby has been rated either good or outstanding by Ofsted.
The nomination form for her said: “She has led Newby governors by example in keeping abreast of developments through attendance at training and ensuring the governing board is up to date. 
“In addition, Jackie has given her time and energies unstintingly in support of schools in challenging circumstances through her activity as a National Leader of Governance. 
“Generations of pupils have been touched by Jackie’s unassuming but vital work in improving their outcomes and enjoyment at school.”
Head teacher Janice Stephenson said: “She has been part of Newby since it opened in 1985. She offers me and the rest of the leadership team advice, support and challenge when necessary.
“She is part of a school that has a strong vision for its pupils.”
Mrs Walters said: “I feel I can put something back as a governor.
“I got a lot out of education, but there was a lot wrong with it at the same time. It is important we give the next generation the best possible education.”