Message from the Chair of Governors - Sylvester Ojobo

Dear Discovery Community,

It is privilege to inform you all, on behalf of the entire Discovery Primary School governing body, that this year has been truly remarkable in the life of our school community, as we proudly step into a new era with a well-articulated plan for the School. This signifies a new structural direction, the heart of our mission and the essence of our values remain steadfast. We are one Discovery family, bound by our shared commitment to providing a nurturing, inspiring, and high-achieving environment for every child in our care.

The governing board, which will continue to serve the school, is honoured to play a central role in setting the strategic vision and ethos of the school while ensuring they remain steadfast in delivering the highest quality education. We work in close partnership with the Headteacher, providing them with constructive support and challenge what is often referred to as being a “supportive challenger’’. This unique partnership enables us to ensure that leadership remains strong, standards remain high, and every decision prioritises the well-being and success of the children.

In addition to overseeing the schools’ strategic direction, the governing board stays actively informed about their financial health. While detailed financial oversight lies with the Board, we receive regular updates to ensure we are aware of the challenges and opportunities impacting our school. This insight allows us to advocate effectively for the resources needed to provide an enriching, well-rounded education for all.

It is essential to clarify that governors are not involved in the daily management or operations of the school—that responsibility lies firmly with the Headteacher and the talented team at Discovery. For any concerns or questions regarding your child’s day-to-day experience, please rest assured that the class teacher or the school office will always be ready to help or direct your enquiry to the appropriate person.

Over the past years, my fellow governors and I have had the privilege of engaging with many of you during school events, such as vibrant activities, informative parent workshops, and more informal conversations at drop-off or pick-up times. These interactions have deepened our appreciation for the incredible spirit of the Discovery community. During our school visits, we also dedicate time to speaking directly with pupils. Listening to their “student perspectives” is one of the most rewarding aspects of our work. It is through their eyes that we gain a deeper understanding of the learning environment, their sense of safety, and their aspirations, all of which guide our decisions and reinforce our mission.

As the saying goes, “A tree is only as strong as the forest that surrounds it.” At Discovery Primary School, we embrace this spirit of collective strength and support. While the fast-paced nature of London life can sometimes make it difficult to feel that sense of togetherness, our community thrives on collaboration, mutual respect, and shared purpose. Together, we create a nurturing environment where every child can grow, flourish, and stand tall.

As governors, we are deeply passionate about the work we do. Our mission is to ensure that Discovery Primary School, Thamesmead is more than just a school—it is thriving, with a joyful community where children are inspired to dream, empowered to achieve, and nurtured to flourish. We want every child to feel a profound sense of belonging, to be excited by their learning, and to know that their potential is limitless.

This moment of transformation is an extraordinary opportunity to build upon our shared successes and continue striving for excellence in everything we do. We are grateful to have a very proactive Headteacher and a wonderful team of knowledgeable and caring teachers. With the continued trust, involvement, and partnership with our parents and wonderful community, together, we will continue to shape Discovery Primary School into place where every child’s future is bright, every voice is heard, and every effort is celebrated.

We warmly encourage you to share your thoughts, ideas, and feedback with us. Your insights are invaluable, and your voice is a crucial part of the journey we take together. Whether through school events, parent meetings, or conversations on the playground, we look forward to connecting with you in the months ahead.

Thank you for being an integral part of our Discovery family. It is with your support that we can create a school that is not just a centre of learning but also a beacon of hope, joy, and opportunity for every child.

Kind regards,

Sylvester Ojobo.
Chair of Governors
Discovery Primary School

Role of governors at our school

1. They are responsible, along with the Headteacher for the strategic direction of the school. 
2. The governing body is accountable for the performance of the school to parents and the wider community.
3. They act as a ‘critical friend’ using their expertise to challenge, advise and support the school to improve. 

The Governing Body is made up of representatives from staff, parents and the community.

Our Parent and Staff Governors are elected. The Headteacher has a standing post; Co-opted Governors are nominated and approved by the Governing Body for a term which lasts 4 years at a time.

If you are interested in becoming a Parent Governor please let us know and we will inform you when vacancies arise.

Contacting Governors.

Governors can be contacted via the school office.

Place any communication in an envelope marked Governors and we will ensure it is passed to the Chair of Governors.

Committees

The work of the Governing Body is carried out through committee groups.

These are: Raising Achievement committee and Business committee. To maximise the opportunity to attend committee meetings all governors are invited to these meetings held termly.

The Governing Body also fulfil their statutory duties through the Pay Committee, Pay Appeals Committee and Complaints Committee (formed as needed).

Register of Interests

All members of the Governing Body - and staff, where appropriate - are required to complete an annual declaration of their financial and pecuniary interests and any relationships between Governors and members of the school staff. This declaration must also include business interests of relatives, such as parents, spouses, co-habitees or business partners, where influence could be exerted by that person over a Governor or member of staff or where the Governor or staff member could benefit directly or indirectly from a transaction with the school.

All Governors have signed a Register of Interests to indicate whether they have a potential conflict of interest or not.