MINUTES OF THE EXTRA-ORDINARY GENERAL MEETING

Held on 30^th September in the School Hall at 3.40pm.

 Opening speech

Mr Brasington spoke initially about the difference that the “Friends” Committee can make to the school.
He thanked the people involved so far for their hard work and commitment. He continued to discuss how there is now a re-generation needed within the “Friends”. He spoke of how the resources that have been funded by the “Friends” in the past have helped all pupils and also staff in the school.

  It was explained that due to the credit crunch and the current economic picture, that we had yet to see the worst as far as education was concerned. Budgets are being cut within the Local Authority and the school had been asked to reduce its deficit. The school will be unable to make ends meet without the “Friends” funding. There is a mis-match between what the school receives and what they actually need.

  Mr Brasington thanked everyone for coming and pointed out that it was hoped to be able to consolidate the new committee at this meeting.

It was then explained that Gillian Westlake-Toms had agreed to take on the role of Treasurer and that
Kate Inglis had agreed to become Secretary. However a Chairperson was still required.

  A further discussion followed about how peoples energy and commitment was needed to help with fundraising events. The “Friends” were not looking for a long-term commitment but if people had the time to help with one event, then that would be great. What was required is a network of people who could be called on to help out.

 Presentation

Nia Chamberlain and Nicky Morris had prepared a presentation detailing the money raised and where it had been spent so far. This included a new whiteboard; tables and chairs for the nursery; mats for PE lessons; restocking of the maths, science and arts cupboards; playground markings and the zip wire.

  A discussion followed this presentation of other events in the pipeline and how people were needed to take up the reins, or a body of people to bring new ideas and new approaches.

  The committee were open to suggestions of where and when meetings would be held. Currently the meetings are held at the Red Lion in the evenings, but it was felt that meeting after school may be easier for some people.

 Committee

Sally Griffiths volunteered to take on the role of Chair but not until after Christmas.

Anna Bell then volunteered to share this role with her.

Caroline Wilbud agreed to take on the role of Chair until Christmas.

Class representatives

The idea of re-instating class reps was discussed and parents volunteered as follows:

Year Six:         Teresa Bland

Year Five:       Sarah Roberts

Year Four:      Sue John & Sophie Anderton

Year Three:     Nancy Webb & Jess Jones

Year Two:       Volunteer still required

Year One:       Rachel Cadman & Deb Cooper-Jones

Reception:      Jo Williams & Ruth Epstein

Open discussion

There was a general discussion of other suggestions including:

• Setting up a direct debit scheme for those families that may want to donate money
• Sending out a letter to ask parents what sort of events they might like to be held
• Tick box to be added to school forms for permission for email addresses to be passed on to the “Friends”
• Sending out letter asking parents how they could help, what skills they can offer
• Board outside school to advertise events.

 Other items

Between 25 & 30 people attended the meeting which was very encouraging and positive for the
future of the “Friends”.

The Christmas Fair is planned for the 3^rd December and organisation is in hand.

The next meeting is to be held in the school hall at 3.40pm on Thursday 11^th November.