We currently have two vacancies for Co-opted Governors on our Local School Committee and are looking for an enthusiastic and committed people to join.

The Local School Committee ensures that the Trust’s vision, ethos, policies and priorities are enacted at a local level, based on the specific qualities and community characteristics of each school. They support, question and challenge the school leadership team, holding them to account and providing assurance to the board.

Being a school governor is a rewarding experience. As a school governor, you give back and make a difference to the young people in your school.  It’s a big responsibility, but you will know that you are having an impact on the pupils in the school, supporting them in their educational journey.

Benefits of being a Governor

There are many benefits to being a school Governor.  You will gain a variety of skills that maybe transferable to your career. For example:

• Leadership
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Negotiation
• Problem-solving
• Increased self-confidence
• Decision making

The role of a school Governor is a voluntary, unpaid role (Governors are able to claim reasonable expenses).

General skills and qualities

The following are the kinds of qualities and skills which are desirable in a Governor:

 

Qualities

· Confidence in own ability to do the job, to play a full role

· Humility – willingness to seek further training and improve skills

· Cooperativeness – desire to work as a member of a team

· Openness – to innovation, criticism

· Commitment to see the school as part of the broader community and of the community of schools

 

Skills

• Observation – for example, internal and external perception of school’s progress, ethos of the school, state of buildings
• Asking appropriate and searching questions at Governors’ meetings
• Taking an active, informed part in meetings
• Interviewing – participate in appointments, listen effectively and evaluate evidence
• Visiting the school well prepared and with purpose
• Using the appropriate and proper channels of communication

 

Some further considerations in relation to nomination:

• Parochial commitment
• Employment experience

• Educational experience
• Support for the Catholic education system

 

Commitment to Trust Governance

Governors must be committed to attending three meetings, carrying out two school visits and attending at least two school events each year

You may also be required to attend infrequent additional meetings and training as necessary. 

Governors usually serve a four-year term.

 

Training and Guidance

The world of education changes very quickly, from curriculum planning, new Ofsted frameworks to funding and safeguarding responsibilities. 

All Governors have access to ongoing support, advice and guidance to help them in their roles. Training and development opportunities are offered by the Trust,  and other training providers. In addition, Governors may request bespoke support and training tailored to suit their needs.

 

Eligibility

To be eligible for an appointment as a Governor applicants must be over the age of 18.

Details of the qualification and disqualification criteria can be found below:

The School Governance (Constitution) (England) Regulations 2012.

 

If this could be you, or someone you know, please do get in touch with Helen Whitaker, Head of Governance on h.whitaker@apex-trust.org