School governors

Become a school governor

If you get on with people, would like to learn something new and give something back to the community, then being a school governor may be for you.

To be a governor, you must be committed and interested in doing what's best for the next generation. 

There may be lots of papers to read and meetings to attend and you will sometimes need to make difficult decisions about individual pupils or staff. 

Appointments usually last for four years and you will receive appropriate training.

How to apply

If you would like to be a governor appointed by the council, download the criteria and complete the application form. Return completed forms to the  address shown on the application.

We carry out pre-appointment checks to ensure you have clearance to work with children and young people. 

A governor's role

The governing body

As part of the governing body, you are responsible for making sure the school provides good quality education.  Together with the headteacher, you set the school aims and policies.

Every school has a governing body.  It normally includes:

• Parents elected by other parents of children at the school.
• Citizens appointed by the local authority.
• Members co-opted from the community.
• Foundation governors appointed to voluntary schools to represent the church or trust which provides the school (if any).
• School staff, including the headteacher.

What does the governing body do?

The governing body:

• Is accountable for the performance of the school.
• Plans for the school's future.
• Selects the headteacher.
• Makes decisions on the school's budget and staffing.
• Makes sure the National Curriculum is taught.
• Decides how the school can encourage pupils' spiritual, moral and cultural development.
• Makes sure that the school provides for all its pupils, including those with additional needs.

If you would like to find out more about becoming a school governor before you apply, please contact School Governor Services.