Ruane - Good governance leads to good schools

Education Minister Caitríona Ruane has emphasised the important role played by School Governors at a conference in Belfast.

Speaking after the Annual Governors’ Conference the Minister said: “School Governors are vital in helping to run and manage our schools. It is their willingness to share their experiences and expertise that can and does make a difference to our schools and local communities.

“My Department and I are bringing forward a number of much needed reforms to the present education system. These include arrangements for Transfer 2010, the implementation of the Literacy and Numeracy strategy and the setting up of the Education and Skills Authority (ESA). Now more than ever we will need strong leadership and good governance in helping to shape an education system that promotes equality and ensures all our children and young people reach their full potential. ESA will continue to promote local decisions being made by schools’ Boards of Governors delivering the support that is needed and ensuring resources are targeted directly to schools.

“School Governors have an important role in upholding financial and educational accountability. It is their statutory duty to continue to maintain and improve standards within our schools. Conferences such as these are an excellent opportunity for Governors to come together, exchange ideas and examples of good practice within our schools. I would like to thank everyone here and all past and present School Governors for their time, enthusiasm and commitment in working towards delivering a quality education for all our children.”

Notes to Editors:

1. The Annual Governors’ Conference was held in the La Mon Hotel, Belfast.
2. Other keynote speakers at the conference were Peter Breen, Chair of the Board of Governors of Finaghy Primary School, Will Haire Permanent Secretary, Department of Education and Stanley Goudie, Chief Inspector of the Education and Training Inspectorate.
3. The conference included opportunities for governors to network and to obtain information from senior administrators on important education issues.
4. The Education and Library Boards and CCMS assisted with the organisation of this event.
5. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9755. Out of office hours please contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.