How to become a school governor
During recent years, governors have played an increasingly
important part in the development of our schools. The 1986
Education Act was certainly one of the most significant pieces of
legislation for over forty years and defined the role of governors
more clearly than had been the case in the past.
It secured a greater involvement of parents and outlined the
functions of the governing body in relation to the Local Authority
and the headteacher.
Today, governing bodies of schools can take greater account of the
local needs of their school and secure a greater representation of
local people.
Also governing bodies can bring in particular skills and strengths
that are required to increase their effectiveness.
Recruitment of school governors
Every school in Suffolk is served by a team of governors - the
Governing Body.
In its strategic role, the Governing Body oversees the work of the
school as well as providing direction and guidance for the
future.
So, who are the governors?
- governors are representatives of the local community;
- governors are volunteers;
- governors come from all walks of life;
- governors have the best interest of the pupils at heart;
- governors seek to provide the best possible education for the
pupils.
The Governing Body:
- decides how the school can encourage pupils' spiritual, moral
and cultural development';
- is accountable for the performance of the school;
- makes decisions on the school's budget and staffing;
- makes sure that the school provides for all its pupils,
including those with special educational needs;
- makes sure the National Curriculum is taught;
- plans the school's future direction.
Would you like to learn more?
You can receive an information pack from Suffolk County Council by
contacting:
Governor Services
Endeavour House
8 Russell Road
Ipswich
IP1 2BX
Telephone: 01473 264454
Fax: 01473 216853
Email:
governor.support@educ.suffolkcc.gov.uk
For email requests, please remember to include your full postal
address.