Head Teacher's Report - JANICE BROWN

Colnbrook C of E school provides nursery through to primary education to 150 pupils.  Janice has been acting head for just a couple of months but has already made a dramatic impact on the school.  I met Janice as she was preparing to paint doors in the school holidays - part of her whirlwind programme of improvements to this enchanting school.  But Janice isn't just doing a cosmetic makeover - as well as improving the look and feel of the school, which is now welcoming and bright, she is facing its educational challenges head on. 

The school is not without its problems which are largely about providing the right learning conditions for a group of children who need a little more than an average school could offer.  janice has a lot to give and seems to be the kind of woman who would never take 'no' for an answer.  She persuades local businesses to support the school, encourages reluctant parents to participate and has a clear vision of what needs to be done.

And when she's not in her new school, she's settling into her new house with her new husband - 2005 has been one of Janice's most eventful years!

What was the toughest exam you ever sat?

My degree - it was really hard work.  I graduated in Personnel and pursued that as a career for ten years until moving into teaching, which is what I always wanted to do.  I love teaching and don't regret for a minute the extra studies for my PGCE and Head teacher qualifications and the financial sacrifices.

How do you wind down after a hard day at school?

I'm on the go all the time - I enjoy walking, biking off-road and gardening - anything to do with the outdoors and nature.  And in the winter I ski.

What are your plans for the school holidays'

More of the above plus getting the school into shape. 

Janice has improvement plans for all areas of the school - from decorating and improving facilities to developing an ambitious environmental project at the front of the school.  She wants to involve the children and this will be done via the new School Council, which has representatives from each class.

Do you still have a teaching role?

Yes and this will increase next year.

How do you think parents can really help their children's school?

By joining in when asked and treating it as part of their community.

How can parents best help their children to learn?

All children need positive self-esteem to succeed.  Parents should allow their children to explore and learn all the time and to become independent.  Praise and feedback go a long way to building confidence and when kids have that they are more open to learning and developing.

Help with homework is crucial - not just reading but really exploring a subject.  Taking children out to see things and find out for themselves how the curriculum comes to life.

What are your biggest challenges today as a Head Teacher?

Raising standards across the board and in every aspect of school life.  From the children's performance to the school buildings and equipment.  Children deserve the best possible environment in which to learn.