Passed over at Parent Council meeting

[Toot]

Went to secondary school Parent Council meeting last night (like Governors for English Mumsnetters) and was 1 of 2 newly elected Parent Members but there are 5 in total. Head wanted a parent for some deputy head interviews next week and went on about how it would be a big time commitment but he'd apprieciate it if someone volunteered. He did also say he might like a male parent as the rest of the interview panel (apart from him) was female. I volunteered (lots of time, ex teacher, been through interview procedure with primary school Parent Council a couple of years ago). My offer hung in the air for a few moments then was largely disregarded. The man next to me said he'd ask for the time off from work and get back to the head but wasn't certain he'd get it. The secretary offered to fill in for him if he didn't get the time off. When one of the others reminded everyone I had volunteered I found myself as second reserve!

I wrote to the sec today and said that having offered first and finding myself 3rd choice was a little embarrasing so perhaps I should withdraw my offer of help. I have had no reply - was this unreasonable?

You are right not to dwell. But your offer was poorly handled. It should have been clear that they would like someone to volunteer who had X amount of experience, and why.

Do you get training for being a parent council rep?

My understanding you have loads of experience and possibly far more experienced in interviews and making decisions that the persons selected.

You don?t need years experience to be on interview panel. All you need is to be is a parent and you are as good as the next person.

The rules state.

(2) The appointment process must entail involvement in it of any Parent Council established for the school to which an appointment is to be made.

(3) A person who is not a member of a Parent Council may, at the request of the council, assist it in discharging its functions in connection with the appointment process.

Actually in my school the head pulled a parent from the playground and sat her on the interview panel. Full training followed.

Formal interview training can be set up at short notice and indeed regular training is scheduled so this should not be an excuse

Instead of guessing as to why you were not selected write a formal letter request explanation. I believe as you have already noted you will not receive reply..!!