Young governors shaping the future of schools
Ben Dowling and Ryan Waters took a place on the governing body at Milton Cross Academy at the age of 18 and 19 whilst Hayden Taylor became a governor at Arundel Court Primary Academy whilst also still a teenager.Â
Hayden, now 21Â and a governor at both Portsmouth College and Admiral Lord Nelson School, said: '˜I really valued my school education and IÂ wanted to support local schools and give something back to the community.'
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Hide AdThe ethos of '˜community cohesion' is something which also strongly influenced both Ben and Ryan.
Ben, 24 and now a governor at Meon Infant School, said: '˜School governance is a way to give something back to education. I was a Student Associate Governor at Milton Cross Academy. It was always well known that I wanted to be a governor and so when I turned 18 I approached the school and they were happy to welcome my back.'
Ryan, 21, is now governor at Cottage Grove Primary school after registering his details with the website Inspiring Governance.
'˜After leaving Milton Cross I was approached by my current school after they saw my profile on the website. School governance allows me to channel my energy into making a difference for children and putting something back into the community,' explained Ryan.
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Hide AdIn a role more commonly associated with older generations and retirement the three young men believe the presence of a different demographic on the board has real benefits.
'˜There is a real value in hearing diverse voices as it provides a different perspective. It is obviously only a short period since we were in the school system and so we are able to empathise with the needs of the students,' explained Ryan.
'˜As part of the digital generation young people can also bring a practical aspect to the school through embracing modern technology and different contacts,' added Hayden.
Portsmouth College Principal, Simon Barrable, is a strong advocate in encouraging young people to become involved in school governance.Â
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Hide Ad'˜It has been a conscious decision to get as a wide an age range as possible on our governing body. As well as providing a younger perspective it is also invaluable for that persons development and self-confidence,'
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