School governors

Schools need skilled people from the world of work on their governing boards more than ever, helping to set the strategic direction of schools while developing their own skillsets.

School and college governors and trustees make a valuable contribution to young people’s education, opportunities and futures. Governors and trustees play a crucial role in improving performance by providing support and challenge to the headteacher / principal and their leadership team. Governing boards that have a balance and diversity of knowledge, skills and experience enable it to be effective.

Inspiring employers to support school governance - YouTube

The North East LEP have signed a School Governor Champion Charter with Inspiring Governance and actively support employees to volunteer, as part of the partnership we actively promote across our networks through face to face events and online material.

North East - Local Enterprise Partnership - Inspiring Governance

What are the benefits to becoming a school governor?

Being a governor or trustee is a challenging but hugely rewarding role. It provides the chance to make a real difference to young people, give something back to local communities and use and develop skills in a board-level environment.

It is the largest volunteer force in the country: there are over a quarter of a million volunteers governing state funded schools alone in England.

Who can apply?

Anyone over the age of 18 can be a school governor – you don’t need to be a parent or have any special education experience.

How much time does this involve?

Volunteers usually spend between five and eight hours per month on governing duties. This is a mix of meetings, school visits and reading documents. The standard term of office is four years, but of course if your circumstances change you’re free to resign any time.