As the UK marks Volunteers’ Week, Omega Multi-Academy Trust is taking the opportunity to shine a light on the crucial contributions volunteers make across our schools.

Volunteers’ Week is a national initiative which was launched in 1984 to provide a platform to thank volunteers for their time and commitment to supporting communities and organisations. 

At Omega Multi-Academy Trust, volunteers play a central role in supporting the day-to-day life and long-term development of schools. From helping with reading sessions and school trips, to serving as school governors and trustees, their contributions are essential to the Trust’s operations.

The Trust also benefits from the involvement of parents who give their time to represent the school in parent forums and through fundraising efforts with Parent Teacher and Friends Associations (PTFAs).

Trustees volunteer their expertise to ensure the effective running of the Trust, holding responsibility for four core governance functions. They meet regularly to ensure clear strategic direction, oversee educational outcomes, manage staff performance, and maintain financial oversight and risk management. 

Trustee Alice Hothersall said: “The Trustee role allows me to bring together experience from my background in education and the skills that I’ve developed in my current role. It’s a deeply rewarding opportunity to contribute towards shaping better outcomes for young people, support my local community, and continue to develop my leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making capabilities.”

Each school within the Trust also has a Local Governing Body. These groups serve as an important link between schools, families and local communities. Governors monitor school performance, raise concerns with Trustees where needed, and meet at least once every half-term.

Governors are responsible for helping to shape the direction and ethos of schools, working closely with the headteacher and staff.

Governor Matthew Gough, who joined Chapelford Village Primary School in July 2023, said: "I am currently a Co-Opt Governor at Chapleford Village Primary School having started in July 2023. My role involves providing strategic leadership for the school to ensure the effectiveness of its work. 

“As a governor I work with the school's leadership team, by helping with the long-term vision, and accountability of the school to its teachers, pupils, and wider community. I enjoy attending the school for governor visits, and local governing board meetings, where I get to see the great work the school is doing."

Great Sankey High School Governor Danielle Preston added: “As a former student of GSHS, I have a genuine connection to the school and am committed to supporting its growth and success. I’ve been a governor for 8 years now and feel as though it has greatly benefited me regarding my own professional development. I’d like to hope that my employment experience in contract governance, negotiation and continuous improvement helps to bring a different perspective to school governance. Living in the local area, I take pride in contributing to the community by helping the school make a meaningful difference for current and future students.”

Volunteers’ Week provides an opportunity to reflect on the impact of volunteering and to recognise the individuals who give their time to support schools across the Trust. Omega Multi-Academy Trust thanks all its volunteers for their commitment and invaluable service.