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A Message from Nottinghamshire County Council

What Being a School Governor Involves

We are currently looking for people to become school governors in Nottinghamshire. This is a valuable opportunity to gain volunteering experience, develop new skills, and make a positive difference in your community.

Appointment Criteria – Can You Offer:
 

  • An interest in or knowledge of education

  • A commitment to excellence

  • A willingness to work with the headteacher and governing body

  • Knowledge of the school and/or local community

  • Commitment to attend meetings and school events

  • Interest in understanding school governance

  • A dedication to public service principles

  • Relevant skills and experience for the role

Code of Conduct – Could You:

  • Support the school’s aims in the wider community

  • Work cooperatively with other governors

  • Attend all required meetings

  • Promote the school in a positive way

  • Respect differing views and opinions

  • Support decisions made by the governing body

  • Maintain confidentiality

  • Participate in training and development

  • Follow the Nolan Principles of Public Life
     

Responsibilities of the Governing Body

1. Ensure Clarity of Vision, Ethos and Strategic DirectionSet the long-term vision for the school, approve key policies, and monitor strategic goals.2. Hold the Headteacher to AccountSupport and challenge the leadership, including on pupil progress and staff performance.3. Oversee School FinancesEnsure the school’s funds are spent effectively and efficiently.

Benefits of Being a School Governor

Becoming a school governor benefits the local community and offers personal development opportunities, such as:

  • Strategic thinking

  • Teamwork

  • Understanding data

  • Chairing meetings

  • Public service experience

Time Commitment

  • Full governing body meets at least 3 times per year (typically once per term).

  • Committees meet 1–2 times per term.

  • Meetings last 1–2 hours.

  • Reading of supporting papers is required in advance.

  • Governors are also expected to conduct in-school visits during teaching hours.

Most governors dedicate around 10 to 15 hours per school term. A typical term of office is four years, although governors can resign at any time.

Time Off for Governor Duties

Under UK employment law, employers must allow "reasonable time off" for employees to carry out governor duties. This may be paid or unpaid, depending on the employer.

Support for Governors

Governors in Nottinghamshire have access to a full support service, including:

  • Tailored advice and guidance

  • A telephone helpline

  • Professional clerking service

  • Full programme of governor training

Networking Group

Governors

Got a question? Contact us today!

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