What is a School Governor?

School governors are volunteers who help to run the school. Most schools work with a group of school governors - together they’re called the 'governing body'. They’re involved in decisions about all aspects of managing the school – such as running buildings and budgets, supporting staff and setting standards of school discipline.

Governors also help to make big decisions about the school’s long-term goals. They support Head teachers, but also ask questions and make sure the Head teacher is taking the school in the right direction.

Who can be a School Governor?

Anyone over 18 can be a school governor – you don’t have to be a parent with a child at the school. However, every governing body includes parent governors, and it can be a rewarding way to be involved in your child’s school.

The most important qualities for being a governor are enthusiasm, commitment and an interest in education. You don’t need teaching experience, but it’s useful to bring skills from other areas of your life. It can also be time-consuming - for example, if your school has to apply 'special measures', which are set by Ofsted, to make general improvements.

What does the role involve?

At most schools you’ll need to attend a governors' meeting each half term. You’ll also be expected to join one or two sub-committees – these cover different areas like the curriculum, finance or buildings. You’ll need to be able to work well in a team, as you’ll be making joint decisions on policy.

Demands on your time depend partly on how the school is doing generally. Being a governor will be a busy role if the school’s results are getting worse or it’s going through a big change like appointing a new Head teacher, or joining with another school.

As a governor you will need to attend at least 3 Sub Committee and 3 Full Governing Body meetings a year.

(Information taken from BBC Schools Website - http://www.bbc.co.uk/schools/parents/school_governor)

How do Governors take part in School Life?

Our Governors visit school, spend time with children and staff and spend time attending events and meetings.

Recently they have worked with the E-Safety group, enjoyed school lunch, met new staff, attending training events and taken learning walks. Taking part in such activities enables them to ensure our school is the best it can be and moving forward.