What is a school governor?
School governors are people who want to make a positive contribution to children’s education. They help to manage our schools and ensure they are well run. They do this by being members of the Governing Board who meet regularly.
Over a quarter of a million people are school governors, making them one of the largest volunteer forces in the country. This is a rewarding experience and makes a real difference in the lives of children and the community.
Who can be a school governor?
There are no specific requirements for the role. Every governing board needs a balance of knowledge, skills and experience to run effectively. School governors bring expertise from their professional lives to the governing board. For example, experience of finance, law, premises management or human resources.
Other skills such as communication, negotiation, and knowledge of your local community are just as valuable as business skills.
You would need to be interested in education and willing to devote time to your role as a governor. You would need to attend governing board meetings.
What would I do as a school governor?
School governors are responsible for overseeing the management side of a school. They focus on strategy, policy, budgeting, and staffing. They work alongside senior leaders and support teachers to provide excellent education to children.
You would need to:
- attend governing board meetings, usually about six meetings per year, which may be held outside of the school day
- read papers and information in advance of the meeting to be well prepared and able to contribute
- visit the school to see the school at work and help develop your understanding of areas of school improvement and development
- undertake induction training including safeguarding training, and further development opportunities to help you with your role
Some governors may also be required to:
- help to make decisions about pupil or staff disciplinary matters
- help with the recruitment process for senior staff including the headteacher
How to apply
If you would like to be a school governor please complete the following application form and email it to paularowlands@wirral.gov.uk
The school will carry out pre-appointment checks (DBS) to ensure you have clearance to work with children and young people.
If you would like to find out more about becoming a school governor before you apply please visit the National Governors Association website.
Training and support
Wirral Council is working in partnership with Edsential to deliver appropriate training including a governor induction course.
Wirral also has an active Governors’ Forum. This gives all school governors an opportunity to come together for updates, training and to share information.
Find out more about being a school governor:
How do I apply to be a school governor?
If you would like to be a school governor, please complete the following application form and email it to paularowlands@wirral.gov.uk
Appointments usually last for four years.
Application form to become a school governor (PDF 191KB)
The school will carry out pre-appointment checks (DBS) to ensure you have clearance to work with children and young people.