Governors

Our Lady of Grace has a very strong Governing Body whose main tasks are to support the school, ensure that pupils receive high quality education and plan for any future developments and improvements.

What do Governors Do?

In a nutshell, Governors work as a team to develop strategies for developing and maintaining high standards of education at Our Lady of Grace. They work closely with the Head who is responsible for the day to day management of the School. Should you wish to contact the Chair of Governors this can be done through the school.

 

Our Governors

Governors Roles and Responsibilities:

• Safeguarding – Sam Gannon
• SEND –  Sam Gannon
• Pupil Premium – Caroline Wheeler
• LAC – Caroline Wheeler
• Numeracy – Jamila Dixon
• Literacy - Vacancy
• RE – Father Hyacinth
• Humanities - Tina Guobadia
• Science – Vacancy
• Wellbeing - Jenny Brown

 

Class Governors:

• EYFS – Tina Guobadia
• Yr 1 – Caroline Wheeler
• Yr 2 – Amanda Chung
• Yr 3 – Liz Redford
• Yr 4 – Vacancy
• Yr 5 – Jenny Brown
• Yr 6 – Jamila Dixon

 

There are currently vacancies for a foundation and parent governor

Governing Body 23 - 24

GOVERNORS

Father Hyacinth

Foundation Governor - Date of appointment: October 2018

Current term of office: October 2018 – October 2022. Appointed by the Archdiocese of Southwark Education Commission. He serves on the Achievement & Standards and Resources Committees and is responsible for R.E. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests or staff/governor relationships. He has full voting rights on the Committees. Attendance at Full Governing Body meetings 

Mr Samuel Gannon - Chair of Governors

Foundation Governor – Date of appointment: November 2022

Current term of office: November 2022 - November 2026. Appointed by the Archdiocese of Southwark Education Commission. He serves on the Achievement & Standards and Resources Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests, or staff/governor relationships.  Attendance for Full Governors meetings - 

Mr Paul Dillon - Vice Chair of Governors

Foundation Governor – Date of appointment: November 2022

Current term of office: November 2022 - November 2026. Appointed by the Archdiocese of Southwark Education Commission. He serves on the Achievement & Standards and Resources Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests, or staff/governor relationships.  Attendance for Full Governors meetings - 

Mrs Augustina Guobadia - Foundation Governor

Foundation Governor - Date of appointment: February 2012

Current term of office: May 2020 – May 2024. Appointed by the Archdiocese of Southwark Education Commission. She serves on the Achievement & Standards, Resources and Admissions Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests or staff/governor relationships. She has full voting rights on the Committees. Attendance at Full Governing Body meetings –

Mrs Caroline Wheeler - Foundation Governor

Foundation Governor - Date of appointment: October 2013

Current term of office: October 2021 –  October 2025. Appointed by the Archdiocese of Southwark Education Commission. She serves on all Committees.There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests or staff/governor relationships. She has full voting rights on the Committees. Attendance at Full Governing Body meetings –

Mrs Elizabeth Redford - Foundation Governor

Foundation Governor – Date of appointment: December 2019

Current term of office: December 2019 - December 2023. Appointed by the Archdiocese of Southwark Education Commission. She serves on the Achievement & Standards and Resources Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests, or staff/governor relationships.  Attendance for Full Governors meetings - 
 

Head Teacher:

Mr Sean Small

Head Governor - Date of appointment: September 2005

He serves on all Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests or staff/governor relationships. He has full voting rights on the Committees. Attendance at Full Governing Body meetings 

Amanda Chung - LA Governor

LA Governor. Date of appointment - July 2021.

Current term of office: July 2021 - July 2025. Appointed by the LA. She serves on the Achievement & Standards and Resources Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests, or staff/governor relationships.  Attendance for Full Governors meetings - 

Parent Governors:

Mrs Jenny Brown

Parent Governor - Date of appointment: November 2019

Current term of office: November 2019 – November 2023. Appointed through the parent election process. She serves on the Achievement & Standards, Resources & Pay Committees. There are no relevant business/ pecuniary interests or staff/governor relationships. She has full voting rights on the Committees. Attendance at Full Governing Body meetings – 

Miss Jamila Dixon

Parent Governor - Date of appointment November 2021

Current term of office: November 2021 – November 2024. Appointed through the parent election process. She serves on the Achievement & Standards and Resources Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests, or staff/governor relationships.  Attendance for Full Governors meetings -

Mr Luke O'Rafferty

Parent Governor - Date of appointment November 2023. Appointed through the parent election process. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests, or staff/governor relationships.  Attendance for Full Governors meetings -

 

Staff Governor:

Miss Maria Maddison

Staff Governor - Date of appointment: November 2023

Current term of office: November 2023– November 2026. Appointed through the staff election process.  There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests or staff/governor relationships. She has full voting rights on the Committees. Attendance at Full Governing Body meetings – 

 

Governing Body 22-23

GOVERNORS

Father Hyacinth

Foundation Governor - Date of appointment: October 2018

Current term of office: October 2018 – October 2022. Appointed by the Archdiocese of Southwark Education Commission. He serves on the Achievement & Standards and Resources Committees and is responsible for R.E. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests or staff/governor relationships. He has full voting rights on the Committees. Attendance at Full Governing Body meetings – 1/3

Mrs Augustina Guobadia

Foundation Governor - Date of appointment: February 2012

Current term of office: May 2020 – May 2024. Appointed by the Archdiocese of Southwark Education Commission. She serves on the Achievement & Standards, Resources and Admissions Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests or staff/governor relationships. She has full voting rights on the Committees. Attendance at Full Governing Body meetings – 2/3

Mrs Caroline Wheeler - Vice Chair of Governors

Foundation Governor - Date of appointment: October 2013

Current term of office: October 2021 –  October 2025. Appointed by the Archdiocese of Southwark Education Commission. She serves on all Committees.There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests or staff/governor relationships. She has full voting rights on the Committees. Attendance at Full Governing Body meetings – 3/3

Mrs Elizabeth Redford

Foundation Governor – Date of appointment: December 2019

Current term of office: December 2019 - December 2023. Appointed by the Archdiocese of Southwark Education Commission. She serves on the Achievement & Standards and Resources Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests, or staff/governor relationships.  Attendance for Full Governors meetings - 3/3

Mr Samuel Gannon

Foundation Governor – Date of appointment: November 2022

Current term of office: November 2022 - November 2026. Appointed by the Archdiocese of Southwark Education Commission. He serves on the Achievement & Standards and Resources Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests, or staff/governor relationships.  Attendance for Full Governors meetings - 1/3

Mr Paul Dillon

Foundation Governor – Date of appointment: November 2022

Current term of office: November 2022 - November 2026. Appointed by the Archdiocese of Southwark Education Commission. He serves on the Achievement & Standards and Resources Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests, or staff/governor relationships.  Attendance for Full Governors meetings - 1/3

 

Head Teacher:

Mr Sean Small

Head Governor - Date of appointment: September 2005

He serves on all Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests or staff/governor relationships. He has full voting rights on the Committees. Attendance at Full Governing Body meetings – 3/3

 

Mrs Jayne Penston -  Chair of Governors

Foundation Governor – Date of appointment: November 2019

Current term of office: November 2019 - November 2023. Appointed by the Archdiocese of Southwark Education Commission. She serves on the Achievement & Standards and Resources Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests, or staff/governor relationships.  Attendance for Full Governors meetings - 3/3

 

Amanda Chung - LA Governor

LA Governor. Date of appointment - July 2021.

Current term of office: July 2021 - July 2025. Appointed by the LA. She serves on the Achievement & Standards and Resources Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests, or staff/governor relationships.  Attendance for Full Governors meetings - 3/3

 

Parent Governors:

Mrs Jenny Brown

Parent Governor - Date of appointment: November 2019

Current term of office: November 2019 – November 2023. Appointed through the parent election process. She serves on the Achievement & Standards, Resources & Pay Committees. There are no relevant business/ pecuniary interests or staff/governor relationships. She has full voting rights on the Committees. Attendance at Full Governing Body meetings – 3/3

Miss Jamila Dixon

Parent Governor - Date of appointment November 2021

Current term of office: November 2021 – November 2024. Appointed through the parent election process. She serves on the Achievement & Standards and Resources Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests, or staff/governor relationships.  Attendance for Full Governors meetings - 1/3

 

Staff Governor:

Mrs Eniola Adeyemi

Staff Governor - Date of appointment: November 2019

Current term of office: November 2019 – July 2023. Appointed through the staff election process. She serves on the Achievement & Standards, Resources and Admissions Committees. There are no relevant business/pecuniary interests or staff/governor relationships. She has full voting rights on the Committees. Attendance at Full Governing Body meetings – 3/3

 

ACADEMIC YEAR 2023-24:
 

Paul Dillon - Vice Chair of Governors

Year 3 Mass - 02 February 

I attended the Year 3 Mass which coincided with the feast of Candlemass which commemorates the presentation of Jesus at the Temple where he is referred to as 'The Light'.  

Fittingly mass commenced with a blessing of candles and a candlelit procession to the altar by children and parents.  Father Hyacinth's homily was wonderful as he told the children that they represent the 'light of christ'.  The children read and sang beautifully and the Mass was enjoyed by all.  I would like to thank Miss Maddison and Miss Ettinghausen and their Teaching Assistants for organising a very special morning mass for children, parents and parishioners alike.

Paul Dillon - Vice Chair of Governors

School lunch : Tuesday 23 January

I had school lunch with  KS2 Children to ascertain how the school lunch provision and experience is for the children.

There was a varied choice offered including Chicken wraps, Pizza, Curry, rice and  jacket potato. I had as sample of each and this was complemented by a fresh salad bar. For a desert I had flap jack with natural yoghurt. The food was very tasty and delicious. The children supervised and very well behaved. The ones I spoke to enjoyed their lunch food. I asked some if they were still hungry after lunch and they all said no they were full.

I was very impressed with the healthy, nutritious, and varied options in and would like to congratulate and thank Abby and her team on running a very impressive lunch service for the children.

Wrappers Club visit : Tuesday 23 January

Having being part of the Governors and Staff working committee for the preparation for the transition from All kids Can to Wrappers Club, I visited the afterschool session to see how it was working in practice.

The first impression is how safe the children are from entry at the door to the monitored age appropriate activities,  integrating and socialising with other children of different ages. All the children seemed happy and relaxed under the supervision of professional, friendly and familiar faces.

The hall had been set out well with plenty of space and tables for activities.  In addition there was healthy, quality food provided for snacks, (fresh vegetables and beans on toast).

The Wrappers Club a great example of the school supporting the Roman Catholic community  in offering safeguarded support at an amazing value for parents.

I would like to congratulate Michelle, Bernie and the team for all their hard work in ensuring  a very successful transition and wish the club continued success.

Thanks to Nuala for leading the working committee of Governors and staff in delivering a complex transition.

 

Amanda Chung - LA Governor - Christmas Party - 20th December

On Wednesday 20^th December, I had the great pleasure of helping with the preparations for St Joesph’s Christmas party.  I then spent the afternoon enjoying the celebrations with the children and joining in with all of the fun and games.  The children and teachers were in great spirits and it was nice to see how well everyone interacted.  I look forward to joining in again next time.

Amanda Chung - LA Governor - School Visit - Reading with St Joseph's and Christmas Guitar Concert December 2023

I visited on 5th December to spend some time reading with the children in St Joseph’s.  They were all extremely keen to share their story with me, and we talked at length about the characters in the book, what they were experiencing, and how they might be feeling.  to see the children read with such enthusiasm was great, and irrespective of their reading ability, they all joined in and kept pace with the conversation.

I then went on to watch the guitar concert, led by Steve Mac.  Steve was my son’s guitar teacher when he attended OLOG over 20 years ago now.  The children are just as enthusiastic now as they were back then.  The school hall was full of proud parents and everyone joined in with the singing, making it a really interactive celebration.  I am so proud to be a governor at OLOG, especially at moments like these. 

Amanda Chung - LA Governor - Christmas Fayre, 2nd December 2023

The PTFA Committee did a superb job of kicking off festivities with the Christmas Fayre on Saturday 2^nd December. It was a really enjoyable event and it was extremely well attended by so many children and their families, staff, and governors.  All of the stalls were great and manned by such enthusiastic volunteers.  The tombola was like the Christmas gift that kept on giving, the homemade cakes were delicious, and the biscuit decorating was such a creative idea that kept so many of the children entertained.  Unfortunately I was turned away from Santa’s Grotto on account of my age, but those who did gain entry emerged looking very happy indeed!  Thank you to all who participated and gave so generously with your time and donations.   I feel so immensely proud to be a part of the school community.  It really is a privilege. 

Wishing you all a very merry Christmas.  

 

Paul Dillon - Vice Chair  - Year 5 Mass - 10th November 2023

I attended the Year 5 Mass on Friday 10th November.

The children's participation in the celebration was a joy to experience. Father Hyacinth's homily to the children spoke of the importance of service to God and being unselfish to each other. Many thanks to all Teachers and Teaching Assistants in preparing the year 5 so well.

Paul Dillon - Vice Chair All Saints Mass - 1^st  November 2023

It was a pleasure to witness the school children  in collective worship for the All Saints mass in the school hall.

The mass was celebrated by Father Hyacinth who engaged wonderfully with the children throughout the mass and especially in the homily regarding the importance of remembering the lesser known Saints in our prayers.

The children contributed wonderfully to the occasion through the singing, readings and offertory procession.  A joyous occasion and I would like to thank all teachers and staff who prepared the children for such a wonderful occasion.

 

Start of Year Mass

Sam Gannon - Chair of Governors

It was a real joy to attend the first whole school mass of this academic year. To see the entire school community gathered together, impeccably presented and in sparkling voice, was a pleasure. Our Year 6 did a fantastic job leading the celebration as the school's new seniors, including readers, altar servers, offerants and technicians. The mass was imbued with a sense of new beginning and potential and as always the students were reflective, participatory, and reverent without exception.  

Jayne Penston - Foundation Governor

Whole School Mass 15th September:

A lovely way to start the new term in school. The children sat beautifully throughout the mass in the hall with several parents in attendance. The liturgy had been carefully prepared and the children read clearly and confidently. As always the singing was an absolute joy. A lovely welcome back to the OLOG school community.

Year 3 & 4 Charlton House trips - 20th & 27th September

I had the pleasure of accompanying 2 year groups to Charlton House as part of their History curriculum. The trips had been well planned with full risk assessments carried out and a sufficient number of adults to manage all the children. Both groups were interested in the history of the building and actively participated in answering questions, games and craft activities that had been prepared. As always, the staff had full control over the group and the children represented and made the school proud with their behaviour and respect for the historian who was guiding the tour. 

Year 4 Mass - 29th September

This morning I attended the year 4 mass at Our Lady of Grace church. I enjoy attending masses with this year group as they always sing so beautifully and with real joy and passion. The readers were well rehearsed, clear and confident and the whole year group actively participated in answering Father's questions during the homily. Thank you to the teachers who prepare the liturgy and the children for these lovely services. 

Paul Dillon - Vice Chair of Governors 

I attended the whole school Mass on for the beginning of the new academic year.  It was a joy to see the children, staff and some parents participate in the sacrament of Mass to reinforce the Roman Catholic ethos of Our Lady of Grace School.

The children participated in all aspects of the liturgy and it was a wonderful, spiritual and peaceful occasion led by Father Hyacinth.

 

Year 4 Class Mass

Thank you to Year 4 for leading such a beautiful celebration in Our Lady of Grace Church on the Feast of the Archangels. Fr Hyacinth was very pleased to hear such jubilant singing in the church, and as always the parishioners of the church were delighted to join in the celebration of the mass with the children, giving a real sense of communion across parish and school. The children were very engaged in listening to Fr Hyacinth's homily explaining the nature of angels and it was heart-warming to see these young communicants receive the Holy Eucharist with great reverence and respect. Well done to all involved in the preparation of this lovely service.

 

ACADEMIC YEAR 2022-23:

 

Paul Dillon, Foundation Governor

Year 4 Cricket Festival - 6 July 2023

On Thursday 6th July 2023 I attended the Platform Cricket Charlton & Kidbrooke Festival.  

Platform Cricket is a charity that delivers free 'in school' coaching and has worked in partnership with OLOG Year 4's in the half term before Easter for the last two years. Their aim is to provide access to cricket to children in London who would not normally get that opportunity and break the perception that cricket is only available to the affluent. 

Schools across the Greenwich Borough entered  including neighbours Fossdene & Invicta. OLOG entered two Teams A & B.  I accompanied Mr Llamas & Mr Maher to assist for the tournament day of Cricket.  We arrived at 9:30am and after registration & short demonstration of the rules our teams were soon playing in their respective round robin leagues.  Both Teams qualified for the quarter finals for which both won close matches.   The semi final was the nightmare scenario of OLOG A  versus OLOG B.  The match was tense and close and the A team won by only 2 runs. This result demonstrates the depth of cricket talent on display from both OLOG teams.The B team played well in the 3rd place playoff to Invicta but lost in another close game. 

In the final versus Charlton Manor the excellent bowling, stumping and catches ensured a modest score for Charlton Manor. The OLOG A team battled superbly to win by 44 runs with steady batting and in the final over 3 smashed 6's sealing the victory.  After the medal presentation they posed for photographs as Champions.  AS winners of the Tournament OLOG A Team will now play in the Pan London Final on 14th July at the Rectory Field, Charlton 31 other Teams from  across London.

All the children behaved in a super sporting manner, were very well behaved throughout the day and were a credit to the school.

The children were so excited buzzing on the way back to school and they thoroughly enjoyed their day. I would like to thank Mr Llamas and Mr Maher for allowing me to observe and assist. It was a wonderful day and I hope it encourages more children at OLOG to play cricket.  I would like to thank Mr Small and the Year 4 Teachers for allowing the children out for a day they will never forget. 

Finally I would like to thank Jahid Ahmed and the Crickets coaches at Platfrom Cricket for providing the coaching and hosting  a free tournament for the local schools. These initiatives should be encouraged and applauded.

 

Jayne Penston, Chair of Governors

Young Voices School Choir Competition - 17.06.23

I had the pleasure of watching two of our school choirs perform on Saturday at the New Wine Church in Woolwich. Children all arrived at 11am for their rehearsal and staff were on hand and organised in keeping the children safe. 

The first choir directed by Ms Wood were competing against other local schools and presented themselves perfectly. The singing and choreography all came together and they gave an excellent polished performance that they can feel very proud of. 

The second group, Ms Okereke's gospel choir, had been invited to entertain the audience whilst the judges were deliberating. The sang a beautiful gospel song, which was warmly received by the audience, and again did an excellent job of representing our school.

The day was finished off by Ms Wood's choir taking second place in the competition and winning some musical instruments for the school.

Well done to all of those who took part in the day and thank you to the staff who attended and prepared the children, they did a fantastic job! 

 

Paul Dillon, Foundation Governor

School Council House of Parliament Trip 07 June 2023

I accompanied the school council children on a tour of the Houses of Parliament.
This trip was a privilege for the children to witness the centre and workings of the
United Kingdom’s democracy. The children were able to sit in the Public Gallery to
watch MP’s in debate. They also visited Westminster Hall which the children found
particularly interesting for its history ranging from the Trial of Charles 1 st (1649) to the
lying in state of Winston Churchill (1965) and Queen Elizabeth II (2022)

After the Tour and in the Parliament Education centre. The children were asked and
encouraged to suggest and debate new laws which they all enjoyed.

The school council also met the Serving MP for Greenwich & Woolwich, Matthew
Pennycook, who explained his daily and weekly Parliamentary routine and
workloads.

This was a fantastic trip for the children who cope with travelling on public transport
in in a very hot environment and they gave an excellent account of themselves in
Parliament as representatives of the school. Credit to Miss Maddison for organising
a wonderful, educational and enjoyable day,

 

Jayne Penston, Chair of Governors

Parent Meeting for YR6 SATs

I attended a meeting for year 6 parents around the year 6 SATs led my Ms Antwi. Parents and year 6 were in attendance to find out about what SATs are, how they are marked, the preparation involved for the children and some practical tips on how best to support them at home. The talk was clear, informative and a good length to hold everyone's attention. Ms Antwi was clear and knowledgeable about the subject with parents and pupils encouraged to ask questions regarding the presentation. An excellent example of the school involving parents in their children's learning.

Year 3 Mass 17.03.23

I had the pleasure of attending year three mass this morning. As always, the singing from this year group was clear and joyful. The children taking part in the liturgy had been well prepared and spoke with confidence and clarity. Throughout the mass the children behaved with respect appreciation for their surroundings. Well done to all those involved in the preparation for this mass.

Safe Guarding visit 17.03.23

Each term I meet with Ms Sully to check the Single Central Register and to discuss any concerns or updates needed regarding safeguarding. As always this document was well maintained and clearly showed how the school are adhering to their safeguarding responsibilities. With only one action point to carry out I am confident that the school is continuing to create a safe environment for our children to learn in.

Easter Passion Play 30.03.23

As a catholic school we follow the Easter journey of lent through fundraising for charity, the RE curriculum and our Easter Passion play. The service yesterday was beautifully coordinated with the children performing to a very high standard. The key characters spoke with purpose and meaning and the singing was well rehearsed and executed perfectly. To see young people perform such a solemn and moving story with such integrity makes me proud to be a parent and a governor at this school. Parents were not only impressed but also moved by this wonderful production. Thank you to all the staff involved in the preparation and rehearsals, and also thank you to the children for such a wonderful performance.

 

Elizabeth Redford, Foundation Governor

Easter Passion Play 30.03.23

I had the pleasure of joining the school community for this year's Passion Play.  I am always moved by the children's sincerity and respect when recognising and dramatising the last days of Our Lord.  Their composure, participation and behaviour was exemplary as always.

 

Dr. Jenny Brown, Parent Governor

Year 5 Class visit  - 6^th March 2023

I sat in on RE lessons with both year 5 classes.

It was a pleasure to watch such carefully planned, inspiring lessons.

Each class has a different personality, but I was welcomed by all and they were proud to share their learning.

St. Elizabeth’s class, with Mrs. Okereke, engaged in an interactive lesson where two children had prepared a presentation and everyone got involved in discussion and writing about the meaning of the parable of the Prodigal son.

St. Patrick’s class, with Mrs. Hall, embraced the topic and showed good understanding and thoughtful interpretations of the parable. The children were well supported, with attention given to their individual needs.

Both classes took the topic to the next level by considering the difficult concept of the Beatitudes; which they had studied in a previous lesson. They thought carefully through the parable for examples of the beatitudes; which showed outstanding depth of knowledge.

 

Jayne Penston, Chair of Governors

Year 3 Mass - January 2023

This morning the year 3's lead the mass at Our Lady of Grace church. The readers had all been well prepared and read perfectly with real clarity. All the children enjoyed answering Father Nicholas's questions and took part fully in the mass, especially when it came to the singing! They raised the roof and lifted the spirits of all in attendance that morning. Thank you to the teachers for preparing the readers and ensuring that all children know how to and feel able to take part in the mass. 

 

Jayne Penston, Chair of Governors

Young Voices, O2 - January 2023

I had the pleasure of chaperoning 60 children who were participating in the Young Voices choir performance at the O2 this evening. As part of a 9000 strong choir, our children truly shone. They were an absolute pleasure to sing along with and did a wonderful job of representing Our Lady of Grace at this event. Mrs Okereke had made a banner, there was a lot of chanting and then a chance to share their beat boxing skills with the rest of the arena. It was an exceptionally long day for them all but they all gave a wonderful performance and should be very proud of themselves, well done!

 

Jayne Penston, Chair of Governors

KS1 Christmas Performance - December 2022

This morning I attended the KS1 Christmas performance and I was so impressed. The children with speaking parts were all very clear, spoke confidently and performed with real gusto. The singing from all of the classes was wonderful and the room was filled with Christmas spirit. It was wonderful seeing so many parents coming together to watch and support their children. Well done to all the staff who prepared these children, sorted costumes and arranged music. A lovely morning celebrating the Christmas story with the Our Lady of Grace children!

 

Elizabeth Palmer, Governor - December 2022

Dear Mr Small,

Just a note to say that I attended the carol service this evening at St George’s. Four pupils attended from OLOG. It was a lovely evening and the girls represented the school beautifully. The Bishop noted in his address that the presence of the pupils from across Southwark lifted his heart. The music and setting was indeed uplifting and a suitable preparation for Christmas. It was a lovely opportunity for the Year 6 pupils.

 

Jayne Penston, Chair of Governors

Meeting with SENDCo - September 2022

Today I met with Miss Barrett to discuss the year ahead. I was informed of the current number of children with EHC plans and that there were 2 that went in before Summer and another 2 being processed and ready to be submitted in the Autumn term. The process is lengthy but Miss Barrett collates all the evidence and submits knowing that she can get a favourable outcome for our children.

We have managed to secure riding lessons for 6 of our children at Charlton Park Riding for the Disabled. These lessons are completely free and the children benefit greatly from the experience.

Miss Barrett has been working closely with teachers to raise awareness and get them more involved in interventions. She is also reviewing the paperwork that sits alongside these to ensure workload is manageable. 

Priorities are to get a SEND coffee morning in the diary to meet parents and create supportive networks, update children's provision plans and speak to schools in the local area who have been through Ofsted reviews recently to ensure we are in line with all requirements.

Miss Barrett is thorough and methodical when it comes to running SEND support in Our Lady of Grace. She has taken time and care to make sure each child on the SEND register has the right amount of support to achieve their full potential. 

 

Elizabeth Redford - September 2022

I had the pleasure of attending Mass with Year 3 on 30th September 2022. As always the children were very well behaved. They sang with enthusiasm and were really keen to engage with Father's sermon. It was lovely to see the support of family in the congregation.

Focus of visit: Overall Effectiveness; Effectiveness of Leadership and Management, Personal Developmet, Behaviour and Welfare

 

ACADEMIC YEAR 2021-22:

Dr Jenny Brown, Parent Governor

I was privileged to observe two year 5 lessons and join the children in the
playground.

A creative writing lesson with Mrs. Huynh was well planned, with clear
objectives and an interesting topic for the children. The children’s behaviour
and engagement with each other and the staff was delightful. Mrs. Huynh has
obviously taught them well throughout the year developing their grammar,
sentence structure and creative writing. She encourages their ability and
develops their confidence, and the class should be proud of their achievements
and kind behaviour. Keep up the good work Mrs. Huynh and Mrs. Kuczera!
A maths lesson led by Mrs. Hall showed her skill at teaching a tricky topic of
‘angles’ to 30 children of different abilities. Well done children, for such

studious concentration, you all progressed well and were supportive of each
other. Well done, Mrs. Hall for managing to explain this topic in a way that all
the children could understand and allow them to feel confident and proud of
their progress. All levels of ability were stretched in this lesson helping
everyone reach their potential. Great work and thank you for sharing your
scene setting stories with me!

In the playground the children played in friendly groups with a mixture of
imaginative play, singing and running around. It was a pleasure to see the
children happy and energetic, whilst caring for each other.

 

Elizabeth Redford

The Summer Fayre

The Summer Fayre is always an important community and fundraising event for the school, organised and run by the PTFA with support from teachers and TAs. I attended the fayre in June 2022 and enjoyed the coming together of past and present pupils and their families. Lots of games to play and wonderful food on offer.

Year 3 Visit

As governor for Year 3, the purpose of my visit was to meet and support the Year 3 teachers and gain a closer understanding of the needs and progress of the children. I visited both classes during lessons and saw excellent behaviour, engagement and desire to learn from all of the childen. Interesting discussion about Ancient Egypt and fantastic poetry written about 'Leon and the Place Between' by Angela McAllister.

 

Jayne Penston, Chair of Governors

Jubilee Choir Rehearsal

Today I had the pleasure of attending a rehearsal with the children who are singing in the Jubilee choir. They had been well briefed on what was happening that morning and the trip ran smoothly as a result. A risk assessment had been carried out prior to the trip with the route being planned and transport agreed. The children sang and listened perfectly and did a wonderful job of representing Our Lady of Grace. Thank you to Mrs Okereke for all the hard work she has put in to get the children ready for these rehearsals and for the event itself.- Jayne Penston (Chair of Governors)

Year 5 Mass - 29.04.2022

This morning I attended the Year 5 mass at Our Lady of Grace Church. I am always very impressed by the children and their behaviour in church as well as the clarity and focus of those who read. All children actively took part in the singing and all aspects of the mass. Thank you to the staff who work with and prepare these children so brilliantly.

 

SEND Visit - 08.03.2022

Today I met with Ms Barret the SEND coordinator to discuss progress and plans for children on the SEND register within the school. We discussed the interventions that take place for children across the school, the involvement of ASD outreach and SALT for certain pupils and how progress was reviewed and appropriate targets set each half term. At Our Lady of Grace there has been a significant increase in the past 3 years of the number of children coming into the school who need SEND support, however the support and rigour around each one of these children has not changed and the SEND coordinator and staff in school must be commended for that.

 

SEND Visit - 25.02.2022

As SEND governor I spent an afternoon with our speech and language therapist who visits some of the children in the school. I observed one of the teaching assistants who was taking a session using lego therapy with three students. The children all had clear goals and objectives set by the therapist and were making good progress in achieving them. After the session we discussed the needs within the school and how the team were delivering their hours with the support of the school. The therapist was very organised and had clear plans and objectives for all the children in his care. He highlighted that there is a particular shortage of SALT support across London currently so workloads and needs of the children have to be prioritised accordingly.

Year 2 Mass - I attended the Year 2 mass on Friday 12th November at Our Lady of Grace Catholic Church and it was wonderful.

The children sat beautifully for the entirety of the service, the readers had been well prepared and were clear when reading at the lectern and everyone took part in the hymns and prayers confidently and respectfully.

A huge amount of work had gone into preparing these children for mass and I would like to say well done and thank you to the teachers and support staff in Year 2, they did an excellent job!

Focus of visit: Class Mass

 

ACADEMIC YEAR 2019-20:

Jayne Penston, Governor

EYFS Maths Workshop - The purpose of this session was to show parents how Maths is taught, enabling to reinforce learning at home. The children were engaged and entertained. Learning about subtraction, the class supported and helped their peers throughout the session. The teacher was strong and clear and it was a most enjoyable session.

Focus of visit: Overall Effectiveness; Quality of Teaching, Learning and Assessment; Personal Developmet, Behaviour and Welfare; Effectiveness of the Early Years Provision

 

Jenny Brown, Governor

SEN Coffee Morning - The coffee morning enabled parents to chat to the SENDCO and the Educational Psychologist. Supportive and friendly environment helping parents to be part of the school.

Focus of visit: Overall Effectiveness, Effectiveness of Leadership and Management

 

Jayne Penston, Governor 

EYFS Phonics Workshop - I was very impressed with how the teacher led the session and the tools she used to make it informative and enjoyable for the class. The children's behaviour was excellent and they knew exactly what was expected of them. There was constant support from the teacher and teaching assistant to help the children complete and achieve their task. It was wonderful to see the class support and encourage each other during the lesson. A very enjoyable session.

Focus of visit: Overall Effectiveness; Quality of Teaching, Learning and Assessment; Personal Developmet, Behaviour and Welfare; Effectiveness of the Early Years Provision

 

Caroline Malley (Responsibility - Safeguarding & EYFS/Year 2 Governor)

The Musical Showcase was a wonderful event and demonstrated the growing confidence of the children as they master their musical instruments. A fantastic spectical to behold. Well done all!.

Focus of visit: Overall Effectiveness; Quality of Teaching, Learning and Assessment; Personal Developmet

 

Jayne Penston, Governor 

On Monday 2nd December I attended the EYFS & KS1 Christmas Performance. The performances from all of the children were outstanding! Clear, confident and involved in their characters, they were wonderful. The children had been well prepared and sat perfectly until it was their turn to perform. I was very impressed with them all - well done!

Focus of visit: Quality of Teaching, Learning and Assessment; Personal Developmet, Behaviour and Welfare

 

Maria-Christina Eskioglou (Responsibility - SEND & Year 5 Governor)

On Thursday 21st November I met with Olivia Gisby, the school’s SEND lead to discuss the progress of SEND pupils in school and the issues that we are facing as our school grows. I was told that there are currently 24 pupils on the SEND register and a number of pupils that also require some additional support  

A lot of the 24 pupils have an Educational and Health Care Plan (EHCP) in school, with a number of further requests for EHCPs submitted to the LA. Miss Gisby is currently preparing more applications and awaiting for the LA assessments. 

In the most recent governors meeting the Head presented the Summer Term data showing the impact of support and interventions over the last year. Overall there were learning gains and significant progress made by most pupils. Over the course of the current year we will also be looking at achievement in more detail by year groups. 

Miss Gisby explained how the school will be moving forward with training and working with all the teachers so that SEND pupils are given more support in class. Training is planned to take place early in 2020 and I will also be attending to gain a better understanding of the requirements on our teachers.

Overall the work that Miss Gisby and the rest of the teachers and teaching assistants are undertaking is truly remarkable. The progress of the children is great. At a time when funding restraints are intensifying and our SEND register is growing Miss Gisby and the entire workforce at the school are going to great lengths to ensure that children achieve so well requiring a lot of personal time and dedication. As a parent and member of the governing body I have and will continue to thank and appreciate all the efforts by the SEND lead and her team. 

Focus of visit: Overall Effectiveness; Quality of Teaching, Learning and Asessment; Personal Development, Behaviour and Welfare

 

Caroline Malley (Responsibility - Safeguarding & EYFS/Year 2 Governor)

I came in to the School to meet with Anna Sully - one of the School's Designated Safeguarding Leads - do discuss all aspects of safeguarding and to review the Single Central Record. I also reviewed the School's latest Safeguarding Audit report which was very comprehensive and discussd any required points for action. 

Overall it is clear that the school performs an excellent role in it duty of care to the children and executes its safeguarding responsibilities diligently. I have great confidence that the required checks are being carried out and that this is an exceptionally safe environment for the children.

Focus of visit: Overall effectiveness; Effective of Leadership and Management; Personal Development, Behaviour and Welfare

 

ACADEMIC YEAR 2018-19:

 

Caroline Malley (Responsibility - Safeguarding & EYFS/Year 2 Governor)

Musical Showcase -  It was absolutely fantastic to see so many children learning an instrument under the excellent supervision of Steve McHiggins and his son Alex. They were all engaged and enthused and the smiles barely left their faces as the children demonstrated the mastery of their instruments, including guitar and piano. The school band was also incredible! Well done all.

Focus of visit: Overall Effectiveness; Effectiveness of Leadership and Management; Quality of Teaching, Learning and Asessment; Personal Development, Behaviour and Welfare

 

Caroline Malley (Responsibility - Safeguarding & EYFS/Year 2 Governor)

Leavers' Events - I had the pleasure to attend a series of Year 6 leaving events, including the leavers' assembly and end of year performance. It was fantastic to see the incredible development of the oldest children in the school since joining in Reception. The children were confident, articulate and enthusiastic and demonstrated all the exemplary attitudes that will prepare them well for their transition to secondary school.

Focus of visit: Overall Effectiveness; Effectiveness of Leadership and Management; Quality of Teaching, Learning and Asessment; Personal Development, Behaviour and Welfare

 

Elizabeth Palmer (Responsibility - Literacy &Year 3 Governor) - Governor's Week

The day was well organised and good safeguarding practices were in evidence. The children enjoyed the experience and all adults on the trip had a good understanding of their responsibilities.

Clear risk assessment was undertaken. Clear detailed briefing of parents accompanying on the trip was done before leaving. Safeguarding practices were carried out on site at the beach.

Focus of visit: Effectiveness of Leadership and Management; Personal Development; Behaviour and Welfare; Safeguarding

 

Caroline Malley (Responsibility - Safeguarding & EYFS/Year 2 Governor) - Governor's Week

I spent the day in school and observed lessons in EYFS, Year 6 and Year 4. In each of the classes there was powerful learning going on - the children were engaged and well behaved and more importantly happily working on the tasks set. 

In EYFS, the children were clearly engaged in their counting tasks and able to count objects up to 30 in some cases, which is a brilliant achievement.

The quality of teaching in the classes I observed was excellent. I came away from the school feeling very confident in the overall effectiveness in the school.

As part of termly safeguarding, I checked the Single Central Record.

Focus of visit: Overall Effectiveness, Quality of Teaching, Learning and Assessment; Personal Development, Behaviour and Welfare; Effectiveness of the Early Years Provision; Safeguarding

 

Brian Vallely (Responsibility- Science & Year 4 Governor) - Governor's Week

I visited Year 5 class maths lesson including explanation of consecutive numbers followed by a creative bridge building exercise involving measurement and calculation. The teacher worked well to ensure maximum participation in the learning process and the great majority of children were engaged. Some good ideas in the bridge exercise showing good thought and understanding on the part of the pupils. Good classroom control and no indication of poor behaviour. Care taken to reinforce health & safety precautions in the use of scissors and paper cutter. Good fun and a productive lesson.

I then visited Year 1 St John Bosco for another maths lesson focusing on positioned language. Well ordered class and again ensuring maximum participation by the pupils. Learning games enjoyed by all the children and a good understanding of the concept of position. Children were able to reason and argue their case in their choice of answer, showing good developmental work undertaken. Very good teaching and learning going on in the room.

In the afternoon I attended Yesr 2 class and listened to two pupils reading - both did very well. I promised to return and listen to more!

Then it was the EYFS & KS1 Sports Day. All the children were really enthusiastic in taking part and most were ambitious for their own achievements.

A thoroughly enjoyable day in school!

Focus of Visit: Quality of Teaching, Learning and Assessment; Personal Development, Behaviour and Welfare

 

Maria-Christina Eskioglou (SEN Governor)

I had a meeting with Olivia Gisby, the School's SENCO, as part of my overall SEN responsibilities. We discussed the pupils on the register and the children that are receiving additional support in several areas. We discussed the different interventions and their overall effectiveness. We also discussed some case studies and examined the progress those children are making and scrutinised how the SEN funding is being used to support those pupils.

 

SUMMER TERM 2018:

Tina Guobadia, Governors' week visit:

I was very excited to see all the children working on their phonics in class today. I was very happy to see the pupils in reception working in an interactive and engaged session. I am impressed with the high expectations Mrs Eniola Adeyemi has for the pupils. They were all very well behaved and listened well, answering questions brilliantly in St Francis and St Bernadette.

The stimulating environment and use of praise.

I also had a brief opportunity to see the children in St Bernadette’s class, where impressive writing was taking place with Miss Gavure.

Overall, I was once again reminded of the brilliant work of all the teachers and support staff. Well done and thank you all.

 

Maria-Christina Eskioglou, Governors' week visit: On Tuesday 26th June I visited the school to see some of the great work that the teachers and all the staff are doing in person. I started the day by interviewing new teaching assistants and I was very impressed with the calibre of applicants. I continued my visit by spending some time in reception in the St Francis class where the children were learning about 2D and 3D shapes. Many of the children showed me their work and answered my questions very enthusiastically. I continued my visit in Year 3 where the children were learning how to change sentences into the passive tense. Again, the children were very engaged and knowledgeable. I continued by visiting all the other classes to see the children in Year 1 writing letters and the Year 2 perfecting their handwriting. I was then very pleasantly surprised by Year 6 who kindly performed part of the play they are working on for the leavers assembly which was superb. I finished my day off by having lunch with St David’s class who kindly allowed me to sit with them and who did not stop asking me interesting and insightful questions. Once again, I was struck by how hard the staff work behind the scenes in order to ensure that the children at Our Lady of Grace are happy and excel academically and by how utterly amazing the children are.

 

SPRING TERM 2018:

Year 1 Environmental Centre

On Monday 5 February I accompanied the Year 1 students on their trip to the Environmental Centre. The children were very excited and looking forward to the trip. They were all very well behaved and listened well, answering questions brilliantly and making sure that the whole day was smooth and very interactive. I was assigned the fabulous yellow team to look after and they explained many things to me including why the most important thing we can do to save our planet is to reduce, then to reuse and finally to recycle. The children got the opportunity to recycle old newspaper into new colourful paper that included fallen leaves, which was very enjoyable. Ms Kelly, Mrs Evans and Ms Golub did a brilliant job with the children and have clearly taught the children very well as the children demonstrated incredible knowledge on the subject of looking after the earth and recycling. Finally, on our journey back to the school the St David’s class was in high spirits as they sang songs from their previous assemblies. Once again I was left reflecting on how proud I was to be accompanying a class of such well-behaved and curious young children. Thank you St David’s class!

 

AUTUMN TERM 2017:

Humanities

Maria-Christina Eskioglou: Having recently been appointed parent governor and taken responsibility for Humanities I arranged to visit the school. The Headmaster gave me a tour and introduced me to the newly appointed teachers. I was very excited to see all the children working in their classes and on their various projects. I was very impressed to see the Year 4 pupils working on their Ancient Greece projects in a very animated and engaged way. I also took this opportunity to meet with Ms Jane Norman, who has overall responsibility over the Humanities curriculum. We discussed her plans for all the students and decided to add to the curriculum a semester on democracy and explore further options to expand the science and inventors subjects to include a few female scientists. Overall I was once again reminded of the exceptional work of all the teachers, support staff and of course the students. I was very impressed with how open Ms Norman was to my suggestions and just how varied the Humanities curriculum is.

Focus of Visit: Overall Effectiveness; Quality of Teaching and Learning

 

Christmas Musical Showcase

The children have clearly worked incredibly hard on their musical showcase this autumn term and produced a wonderful concert for parents and the entire school to enjoy. It's wonderful to see so many children learning an instrument - a skill that will stay with them for life - and appearing to revel in it. "Last Christmas" was a clear favourite among pupils and the tribute to George Michael was particularly moving.

Steve Mac never fails to capture their imagination and the children so obviously love his lessons. He and his son deserve huge congratulations for the important role they play in the school and ensuring it had a strong musical tradition. I am looking forward to next year already. Caroline Malley, Chair of Governors

 

SPRING TERM 2017:

SEN GOVERNOR VISIT - February 2017

Caroline Malley - I had a meeting with Jo Lewis, the School's SENCO, as part of my overall SEN responsibilities. We discussed the pupils on the register, as well as those pupils who are not on the register but are receiving additional support in areas such as Maths, where they are not making the required progress. We discussed the overall effectiveness of the interventions. I also talked through the various case studies of those pupils on the register and examined the progress they are making and scrutinised how the SEN funding is being used to support those pupils.

I checked where the School records are kept, including the Single Central Register and ensured that they are kept in a locked drawer as required.

Focus of visit: Overall Effectiveness; Effectiveness of Leadership and Management; Safeguarding