A school caretaker from Polegate for whom the words “can't be done” do not exist, has brushed off the competition to be crowned this year's East Sussex School Caretaker of the Year.
Jon Murrell of Polegate Primary School scooped the award having been chosen by East Sussex County Council's Director of Children's Services, Matt Dunkley, as the county's top caretaker.
He was presented with his trophy at a special ceremony at the caretakers' annual meeting this week.
Mr Murrell was nominated by the school's business manager, Ivy Scarborough. In her nomination she said he was an “outstanding” caretaker “who really doesn't know the words `can't be done'.”
His nomination was also supported by pupils. One pupil wrote: “Every school needs a Mr Murrell.” Another said not only was Mr Murrell an “extraordinary caretaker” but he was also a “great footy ref”.
The competition runner-up was Robert Burchett from Holy Cross CE Primary School in Uckfield. Although pipped at the post by Jon, Robert was equally highly praised in his nomination from Holy Cross business manager, Denise Taylor.
She said he is a “firm favourite within the school with parents, pupils and the wider community” and as well as his caretaking duties, he had set up a lunchtime gardening club. Praising his versatility and sense of humour, she added: “Bob is a true asset to the school and a shining example of how varied the job of a caretaker is.”
Cllr Nick Bennett, East Sussex County Council's Lead Member for Learning and School Effectiveness, said: “The effectiveness of a school depends on many things, but it is certainly vitally important that a school is safe, warm and clean – a place where pupils and teachers can teach and learn.
“We hold this competition every year and I'm always delighted to hear how our school caretakers, often unsung heroes, really go the extra mile and make a major contribution to the running of our schools. We know schools appreciate their caretakers, this award is simply about making sure they get the County Council's thanks and praise too.”
Schools across the county were asked to nominate their caretaker and say why they should win the award. The entries were then judged by Matt Dunkley, Director of Children's Services at the County Council.
He was presented with his trophy at a special ceremony at the caretakers' annual meeting this week.
Mr Murrell was nominated by the school's business manager, Ivy Scarborough. In her nomination she said he was an “outstanding” caretaker “who really doesn't know the words `can't be done'.”
His nomination was also supported by pupils. One pupil wrote: “Every school needs a Mr Murrell.” Another said not only was Mr Murrell an “extraordinary caretaker” but he was also a “great footy ref”.
The competition runner-up was Robert Burchett from Holy Cross CE Primary School in Uckfield. Although pipped at the post by Jon, Robert was equally highly praised in his nomination from Holy Cross business manager, Denise Taylor.
She said he is a “firm favourite within the school with parents, pupils and the wider community” and as well as his caretaking duties, he had set up a lunchtime gardening club. Praising his versatility and sense of humour, she added: “Bob is a true asset to the school and a shining example of how varied the job of a caretaker is.”
Cllr Nick Bennett, East Sussex County Council's Lead Member for Learning and School Effectiveness, said: “The effectiveness of a school depends on many things, but it is certainly vitally important that a school is safe, warm and clean – a place where pupils and teachers can teach and learn.
“We hold this competition every year and I'm always delighted to hear how our school caretakers, often unsung heroes, really go the extra mile and make a major contribution to the running of our schools. We know schools appreciate their caretakers, this award is simply about making sure they get the County Council's thanks and praise too.”
Schools across the county were asked to nominate their caretaker and say why they should win the award. The entries were then judged by Matt Dunkley, Director of Children's Services at the County Council.
No comments:
Post a Comment