Schools do not work alone. They work in collaboration with the local authority, other schools in a trust, school governors and with some assistance from Parent, Friend and Teacher Associations, also known as PTAs or PTFAs. What exactly do school governors do and how do you become one?
What is a school governor?
School governors are tasked with offering strategic guidance to the school’s senior management team, but do not get involved in day-to-day operational activities. School governors are typically suitably qualified parents or parents of ex-students who remain loyal and committed to the school’s success. That said, you do not need to be a parent at all to become a school governor.
School governors are not usually paid for their work, and will have to bring something unique to the table. Often, school governors are voted in by parents at the school in an election.
What do school governors do?
Working alongside other board members, school governors will help plan the school’s strategic direction, keep a check on the school’s spending to ensure the money is being well-spent, and challenge the senior leadership team, holding the headteacher accountable. Meetings are usually held quarterly – or more – so governors are required to be committed and make themselves available when meetings take place.
Governors may also have a say in the school’s marketing strategies, such as its website. For more information on websites for schools, see www.fsedesign.co.uk/websites-for-schools.
Is being a school governor rewarding?
Becoming a school governor can be rewarding because you are helping to shape children’s lives and are ensuring that their school life has a lasting, positive effect on them. What’s more, the experience gained from this role can be very worthwhile and can enhance your CV.
If you have always wanted to work in a school environment but didn’t train as a teacher, this role gives you the opportunity to work with those within the education sector and to offer your own valuable insights. In particular, if your child attends the school, you can feel proud that you shaped part of their educational experience.