Governance

Academic Year 2024-2025

In accordance with the Government’s requirement for all governing bodies, the 3 core strategic functions of the Governing Body of Dallam Community Primary School are:

• Ensuring clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction.
• Holding the head teacher to account for the educational performance of the school and its pupils.
• Overseeing the financial performance of the school and making sure its money is well spent.

Governance Arrangements

The Governing Body of Dallam Community Primary consists of the following members;

• Head Teacher – Mrs Amanda Downey
• 1 staff governor – Mrs Donna Kendal
• 1 elected parent governor, Mrs Shireen Mohammed and one place vacant
• 1 Local Authority governor – Mr Graeme White
• 4 co-opted governors – Ms Jo Blacklock, Miss Ashlea O’Rourke, Mrs Jenny Pirks, Dr Margaret Emsley 

Total – 8  members

Throughout the 2024-2025 academic year, the full Governing Board met at least once a term. Subject link Governors and groups met regularly to examine specific areas of the school in detail, with all actions and key outcomes subsequently reported to the Full Governing Board. At Dallam Community Primary School, we scrutinise Resources,  Standards of teaching and leadership performance. The Board receives consistent updates from the school leadership team, including reports on attainment, safeguarding, behaviour, attendance, and special educational needs.

Governors complete an annual skills audit and attend relevant training to maintain the expertise needed for effective governance. This year, we participated in Safeguarding Children in Schools refresher training and Cyber Security Training.

The work that we have done this academic year

At each Board Meeting, the Board systematically reviewed the school improvement plan and evaluated its impact on both pupil achievement and wellbeing.

The Governing Board monitored the school’s finances, which remain challenging due to rising costs and expenses linked to academisation. The Resources Committee regularly reviewed personnel arrangements to ensure staffing meets students’ needs.

Subject link governors met staff regularly to review the curriculum, engaging with both subject leaders and students. The students demonstrated a positive attitude towards their lessons and showed enthusiasm for their favourite activities and subjects.

During our initial year as part of The Challenge Academy Trust, staff and leadership demonstrated the ability to adapt efficiently to new systems and operational methods while preserving Dallam’s inclusive and nurturing environment. Although some frustrations and transitional challenges arose, the team’s perseverance and commitment to serving Dallam’s community and students have been commendable.

On behalf of the Governors of Dallam Primary School we would like to express our gratitude to Mrs Downey, and Mrs Kendal for their absolute commitment to the work that has been needed to ensure systems and supports have been in place during this year of transition. Thanks also go to all the staff at Dallam for their dedication to achieving the best for Dallam’s children and their families. We would also like to extend our appreciation to parents and carers for their ongoing support, as we work collaboratively to keep Dallam Community Primary school the safe and supportive centre of the community that we are.

How you can contact the governing body

We always welcome suggestions, feedback and ideas from parents and the community – please contact the Chair of Governors, via the school office or the email addresses below. 

If you are interested in becoming a Governor, please contact our Co-chairs of Governors, Ashlea O’Rourke and Jenny Pirks on the contact details below.

Email address:  aorourke@dallamprimary.com or jenniepirks@dallamorimary.com

Alternatively, you can contact our business manager, Mrs. Kendal, for more information on 01925 633927 or by email d.kendal@dallamprimary.tcat.uk.com