AROUND a dozen enthusiastic parents recently attended an inaugural meeting of the newly created Budehaven Community School PTA, the ‘brainchild’ of head of RE, Anthony O’Dwyer.

Many more have expressed interest in having a PTA (Parent-Teacher Association) at Budehaven, a popular idea with parents. Mr O’Dwyer is also actively involved in creating stronger alumni links for the school.

He was keen to impress that all parents at Budehaven are members of the PTA, and should feel part of the new structure, although a smaller number will wish to be actively involved with the organising committee.

Mr O’Dwyer explained that his motivation to set up the PTA resulted from meeting many lasting friends through his own children’s primary school, creating an important sense of belonging and community, which he wants to extend to families at Budehaven Community School.

He explained that it is harder for parents of secondary school children to feel involved in school events and life because the schools are much larger than the primaries and parents do not collect their children at the school gate.

So, PTA events can be a great way for parents to keep in contact and socialise with other parents while also raising funds for the school to pay for things which might not be possible within the school’s budget. Parental involvement also has a positive and beneficial effect on the students.

The attendees at the meeting discussed the way the PTA would work, and suggested ideas for events. It is hoped that the first event, which will have a community basis, will take place before Christmas.

The next meeting, to which any parent whose child attends Budehaven is welcome, will be held at the school on Tuesday, December 6 at 7pm.

For further information please email Mr O’Dwyer at [email protected]