Page 22 - link magazine

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Swindon Wide
Speed date for your time and talents Exquisite bowls on display
in 2007 Swindon textile artist Kathy
Danswan, left, who specialises in
Volunteer Centre Swindon is putting out a challenge: find out in 3 embroidered felt wall hangings and
minutes how you can begin to make a real difference on 23 January. silk bowls, holds an exhibition at
If you have been thinking about Maybe you have managerial, the West Swindon Library from 3 to
volunteering for ages, but are not marketing or financial skills, in 20 January to coincide with the
quite sure what to do, or which which case you may be interested publication of her book Beautiful
charity to support, then this is a fun in finding out about becoming a Bowls and Colourful Creatures.
way to get started. charity trustee, or a school gover- She will be talking about her
Volunteering can help you as nor. If your interest lies in counsel- work and signing her book on Sat-
much as the projects you support. ling, supporting or advising then urday 6 January from 10am to
Just book a slot on one of the there will be opportunities for you 12noon and 2pm to 3pm.
speed matching sessions and give to find out more about that too.
a selection of local organisations The Volunteer Centre guaran-
just 180 seconds each to impress tee there will be something to catch Make a difference as a school governor
you. your fancy - no matter what your Schools across Swindon are appealing for volunteers to join their
Anyone already familiar with the interests, passions or time com- governing bodies.
idea of speed dating will know how mitments. Governors are critical to the effective running of schools and with the
this works. If it’s a new idea to you, Do you have to sign up to town’s current vacancy rate at 12 per cent there are some170 places
don’t worry, somebody will help volunteer on the day? that need filling. Contrary to popular misconception volunteers do not
you connect. Not necessarily. Taking on a vol- need to be parents or have any specific skills or knowledge of the
What’s in it for you? untary job is not something to rush. education system to add value to a school governing body. Anyone from
On offer will be information about The event is a fun way of getting any background aged 18 or over, and who can offer 6 to 8 hours a term,
helping other people across Swin- people interested which will lead to is welcome to apply.
don, and about working in conser- a decision on the day, or sometime Responsibilities may include allocating budgets, appointing senior
vation projects. later. staff, making decisions on the school’s policies and direction and
Organisations taking part will The Speed Date takes place at essentially ensuring pupils are getting the best education possible.
include those that help people who The Pilgrim Centre on Tuesday 23 Training is available for all governors.
are young and not so young, peo- January. There are two sessions: School governance is a mutually beneficial role. It both contributes to
ple with physical and learning dis- Session 1 - 6.30pm to 7.30pm or children’s education but it gives you the opportunity to develop new and
abilities, people who are home- Session 2 - 8pm to 9pm. existing skills.
less, or experiencing mental dis- To book a place call Volunteer For details about becoming a school governor call School Governors’
tress, and people in hospitals, hos- Centre Swindon on 420557 or mail: One-Stop Shop on 0870 241 3883 or mail: [email protected]
pices and day centres. [email protected] www.sgoss.org.uk

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21 January 07 22 14/12/06, 11:08 am