What do Governors do?

First of all, you don't have to be an 'expert' and no formal qualifications are required.  What you will need are common sense, time, enthusiasm and a commitment to working as part of a team to make a difference for all the children at your School.  As a guide, being a school governor would take up 6-8 hours a month of your time, which includes attending meetings and reading related papers.

School governors work as a team with the Headteacher, providing both support and challenge (being a 'critical friend').  Your main responsibility as part of the Governing Body will be to provide strategic management for your School.  You will set the School's aims and objectives with a view to promoting high standards of education and achievement.  Specific tasks may include setting staffing levels, appointing the Headteacher, setting and agreeing the school budget, and ensuring that a broad and balanced curriculum is delivered, as well as monitoring health and safety and the management of the premises.

Being a school governor provides an opportunity to develop new skills and strengthen existing ones, whether in finance, site management, human resources, marketing, pupil welfare or curriculum development.  The Governor Development Team offers extensive training to help you understand your role.  Above all, being a governor will give you the sense of satisfaction that comes with knowing that children are benefiting from your efforts.