Do you have the skills to join our team of Governors?

Governing bodies are made up of a broad range of people including parents, school staff, members of the community (co-opted governors), and people nominated by the Local Authority (Local Authority governors). They have a range of different backgrounds, skills and experiences but they are all committed volunteers who work together for the benefit of the school and are the link between the school and the community it serves. The most important thing is that governors have the necessary skills to contribute and the willingness to learn and develop their abilities as a governor. The governing body works as a team with the Head of Site and other staff, effective governors do not need to be experts in education but they do need to be committed to New Bridge and want to improve the outcomes for children, young people and their families. A key role of governors is holding the management team to account robustly and effectively. For this, it is important that governors have a questioning mind and are diplomatic. They also need to be enthusiastic and a good team player. To contribute effectively, all governors need to be literate and numerate.

The different types of governors

• Parent governors – elected by the parents of children in the school
• Co-opted governors – appointed by the governing body and might include local business people or members of local community groups
• Local Authority governors – members of the community who may be elected members with an interest in the school and skills required to meet the schools skills gap. Applications are endorsed by the Cabinet Member and Shadow Cabinet Member for Education and Early Years and appointment will be made by the full governing body.
• Staff governors – elected by both the teaching and support staff at the school
• Headteacher/Head of Site – if they choose to be a governor

Do you have?

• The ability to form effective working relationships with fellow governors and staff?
• The ability to enquire, scrutinise, challenge and actively support the work of the senior staff of the school?
• The desire to work hard as a volunteer for the benefit of the children, families and staff?
• The ability to look at issues objectively?
• The confidence to ask questions and join in debate?
• The willingness to listen and make informed judgments?
• The willingness to act honestly, openly and with integrity?

The benefits of becoming a governor include:

• A chance to develop skills in a strategic management role
• The opportunity to work with a team of governors and staff in improving schools
• Training to develop an understanding of specific school management issues
• A sense of achievement in making a difference to the school
• The pleasure of helping children and young people reach their potential

Some governors have commented on the value of their personal development and advancement through volunteering for the role of governor (strategic manager) and how this has helped them with progression in work and other aspects of their life.

Key requirements

• Excellent literacy, numeracy, written and IT skills with attention to detail are essential along with the ability to act in a professional manner whilst maintaining sensitivity and confidentiality.
• The job requires someone who is a good communicator with excellent customer care skills, who works well on their own using their own initiative and as part of a team.
• Previous experience as a school governor is not essential. Training will be provided.
• The post is subject to an enhanced disclosure from the DBS (previously known as CRB)

What to do next if you would like to become a school governor?

All governor applications will be considered before a formal appointment is made and you will be notified in due course.

To register an interest to become a governor please complete the following form: Governor Registration of Interest

Please contact Wendy Warren on 0161 883 2401 (ext. 1007) for further information.

Candidates will be matched against skills gaps within a school at the New Bridge Multi Academy Trust (MAT). Shortlisted candidates will be contacted directly by New Bridge MAT.