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Become a school governor

Introduction

Schools are changing – and so are governing bodies. The government is committed to raising educational standards in the classroom, and to increasing the role of parents and the local community. Volunteers are needed to help all our children reach their full potential.

It is important that prospective governors know what is involved in being a school governor. This information is intended to help you decide whether you would like to be a governor and whether you are able to give the commitment that is needed to be an effective governor.

How are governing bodies made up?

School governing bodies are made up of:

• parent governors
• staff governors (headteacher, teaching and support staff)
• local authority governors
• community governors
• partnership governors (for foundation schools only)
• foundation governors (for church and foundation schools)
• sponsor governors
• associate members: associate members aren't governors, but they may be appointed by the governing body as members of committees to provide expertise in specific areas. Associate members have limited voting rights.

Governing bodies vary in size from 9 governors to 20 governors. Secondary schools have up to 20 governors. Most primary schools have between 13 and 17 governors.

Local authority appointed governors

Local Authority governor places are non-political. An Appointments Panel makes these appointments. Membership of the Panel includes elected members, school governors, diocesan and union representatives.

All candidates for new and re-appointed Local Authority governor places are asked to complete an application form. The information in the application form is also used as part of the Local Authority's arrangements for safeguarding children.

The Appointments Panel meets as required to consider new appointments and re-appointments. See the list of current local authority governor vacancies.

If appointed, you will be expected to carry out your responsibilities as a school governor in accordance with the ethos and vision of the school to which you are appointed.

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