Becoming a school governor
Becoming a school governor is one of the most important ways in which you can help your local school.
School governors are responsible for making sure the school provides a good quality education. Together with the Head Teacher, who is responsible for day-to-day management, they set the school's aims and policies as well as carrying out a number of other important duties. These include:
- How the school's budget is spent
- The appointing and dismissing of staff
- Hearing appeals and grievances
- Forming policy on the school's curriculum and collective worship
- Pupils behaviour and discipline.
If you were to become a school governor you would be one of between nine and 21 people making up the governing body. Advice, support and training in carrying out the role is given by the Local Authority and much of the work is done in working groups or sub-committees where you can share your experience with other members.
The term of office for a school governor is normally four years and you would be expected to attend at least one meeting per term. Most governors find they usually attend meetings or visit school three or four times a term.
Being a school governor is demanding but rewarding and a good way of putting something into your local community. You don't have to be a parent of a child at the school, but if you are you can also know that you are having a direct influence on the quality of your child's education.
If you are interested in finding out more about becoming a governor and what it involves please contact Governor Services on tel: 0115 854 6061 or register your interest using the on-line form.
