Let's do it for the lads

Posted By: Keith Swift
Date Posted: 04/03/2007

I have for the past 11 or so years been a Governor of Moorhouse Primary School which, since the introduction of the new Firgrove and Smallbridge Ward, is no longer in my Ward of Milnrow and Newhey.  I am, however, very pleased to be associated with Moorhouse, as not only do children from Milnrow and Newhey Ward attend, but it is a really good school.

There have been some very difficult times at Moorhouse in the past, which required me as Chair of Governors, to make some painful decisions.  All through the difficult times the central core of staff were loyal and always have given more than required in the interest of the children.  The school is now exceptionally well led by Head teacher, Richard Lee, and Deputy Head Katie Charlton, and flourishing once more, with staff from other Rochdale Primary Schools being advised by the LEA to come along and “see how they do it at Moorhouse.”

I am always busy and it is difficult to find time to do everything requested of you, but once in a while comes a request that you make time for. 

One such request landed on my mat from Deputy Head Katie Charlton on Friday.  Moorhouse is involved in a new initiative called “The Boys on Board Project” to get more men and boys involved as role models for reading.  Designed to help promote a love of reading in children, particularly boys, Moorhouse is asking for men and boys to go into school to listen to and encourage children to read.  It is hoped that by seeing men and boys enjoying reading that it would win over the hearts and minds of the reluctant readers, and children will become immersed in the rewards and pleasures of reading.

Katie Charlton can be contacted by email office@moorhouse.rochdale.sch.uk or by phone 01706 642742 .

I will be going in to read something about the sport of Golf, which I have just taken up, so I can learn at the same time as the children.  I am not so cruel as to take along a Rochdale Council Report on amendments to the Council’s Unfair Dismissal Complaints Procedure, which occupied me one Sunday afternoon.  The only joy in reading that, was when I put it down.