Schools have changed. For some time now local people have been making important decisions about the way each school is run.
Governors now make decisions on how to spend their budgets. In some of the larger schools, that can run into several million pounds. It's a big responsibility for those in charge. That's why new governors are always needed.
Schools need more enthusiastic and committed people to step forward as governors. It's an opportunity to have your voice heard and to influence education for the children in our area.
Please take a few minutes to see what's involved. Being a Governor is not difficult but you do need to be committed and interested in doing the best for the next generation.
If you care enough about the children in our community to invest some of your time in their future, become involved as a governor.
Every school has a governing body. It must include:
and usually
Governing bodies are responsible to parents and the wider community, so other members may include representatives of the local churches, charitable trusts or business and community interests. Others may be appointed by the governing body itself. Numbers vary depending on the school's type and size and appointments are usually for four years in the first instance.
The governors are responsible for making sure the school provides a good quality education. They set the school aims and policies in conjunction with the head, who is responsible for the day-to-day management. The Head is chosen by the governors and works closely with them.
The governing body:
These are not simple matters. They affect the interests of the pupils, the morale of staff, and how the school is seen by parents and others in the community. Professional advice will be available from the head, staff and local education authority (LEA).
A governing body is not a supporters club. Governors are responsible for how the school is performing. Following up inspection reports is an important job for governors, so it's helpful to identify problems and tackle them in advance.
Being a governor is not all about what you have to offer. You'll soon find that the other governors including the head are only too keen for new recruits to learn.
Don't worry: you won't be going back to the classroom for any blackboard sessions. Training is informal, with small groups working together and discussing real-life examples.
Thurrock Council provides information and advice, including training programmes for new governors as well as sessions on specific topics, like the National Curriculum.
How to apply to become a School Governor
01375 652652
01375 652359
