Scottish Widows senior account executive Andrew England has accepted an invitation to become a co-opted governor of Scoill yn Jubilee.
As one of Scottish Widows’ ‘book buddies’, the company’s volunteer scheme that places colleagues with primary school pupils to help them with their reading in one-to-one sessions, Mr England, 29, is already a familiar figure at the school.
He said: ‘I’ve been a book buddy for five years, choosing to volunteer because when I was around five or six years old I struggled with my reading so would have benefited from the programme. I think this also helps me, as a book buddy, relate to the children having reading difficulties.
‘I consider it a great honour to be invited to join the school’s governing body. I’ve been a part of Scoill yn Jubilee for some time now and have gained an understanding of how it works. Becoming a co-opted governor will allow me to give more to the school and in this Scottish Widows has been extremely supportive.’
Head teacher Linda Green said: ‘We are delighted that Andrew England will be joining our governing body at Scoill yn Jubilee as a co-opted member.
‘Andrew has been a book buddy at our infant school for several years. The scheme was set up by the then CMI, now Scottish Widows, as part of their community work helping children in local schools become good readers. We have had a long association with the company supporting our children's reading and have several book buddies in school each week.
‘Andrew has a good understanding of the infant school through his book buddy work. He has built excellent relationships with staff and children and will be able to make valuable contributions to our discussions and events involving the governing body.’
Scottish Widows managing director Juan Clarke said: ‘Scottish Widows has long been committed to sharing knowledge and expertise and building strong relationships. This collaborative approach is central to not only to how we conduct our business but also to how we engage with the local community, by supporting colleagues in their volunteering activities. It is therefore great to see that Andrew’s dedication to the school has been acknowledged in this way. I congratulate him on his appointment and know he will apply his usual enthusiasm and motivation to his new role as co-opted governor.’
Photo - Andrew England is pictured with pupils of Scoill yn Jubilee, to which he has been appointed a co-opted governor.
