School governors

School governors and academy trustees make up the largest volunteer group in the country. They are a vital part of the education offer here in Northumberland.

Our schools are looking for committed and enthusiastic members of the community to join both their governing and trust boards. Members must be willing to make a positive contribution to children’s education.

 

What is the role of a governor or trustee?

The National Governance Association defines a school governor or trustee as someone who:

• ensures clarity of vision, ethos, and strategic direction
• holds executive leaders to account for:
  • the educational performance of the organisation and it’s pupils
  • the performance management of staff
• oversees the financial performance of the organisation, and makes sure that money is well spent

Governors and trustees should:

• have a strong commitment to the role and to improving outcomes for children
• be inquisitive, challenging and analytical
• be willing to learn and attend training
• have good interpersonal skills
• be prepared to work in line with the Governors Code of Conduct and Governor Behaviour Protocol

Governors and trustees should expect to spend approximately 10-20 days per year on their role. This would include:

• attending 3-6 governing board meetings per year
• attending any subcommittee meetings 
• reading papers circulated before meetings, as well as undertaking relevant research
• visiting the school as part of a programme of governor visits with a specific focus

Please click here to visit The National Governance Association for more information about the roles of school governors and trustees.
 
Please click here for more information about what support is available for school governors and trustees in Northumberland.

 

Can I become a governor or trustee?

You don’t need to have a child at school to become a governor or trustee. There are different categories of governor, including:

• Parent
• Staff
• Foundation
• Local Authority
• Co-opted
• Academy

  

Apply to be a governor or trustee below:

If you would like more information on becoming a school governor or academy trustee in Northumberland, please click here to register your interest. Once we have your contact details, we can get in touch to give you more information, and to help you with the application process.

If you would like to apply to become a school governor or academy trustee, please click here to access our application form. 

Please either send your completed form to governorsupport@northumberland.gov.uk, or post it to:
 
The Corporate Director of Children’s Services
Governor Support
County Hall
Morpeth
Northumberland
NE61 2EF

 

What can the council offer your school?

The School Support Team at Northumberland County Council provides professional, independent governance services which help to support effective governing boards. 

For more information about Governance Support, Advice, and Development SLA, please contact Mrs Vicki Evans:

• Telephone: 01670 623600
• Email: vicki.evans@northumberland.gov.uk

For enquiries about school governors and trustees, you can contact us for information and advice either by telephone, email, or post:

Telephone:

• 01670 623600

Email:

• governorsupport@northumberland.gov.uk 

Post:
The Corporate Director of Children’s Services
Governor Support
County Hall
Morpeth
Northumberland
NE61 2EF