School Governor required for Bunwell Primary school, South Norfolk

Bunwell Primary is a small school with mixed-age year groups at the heart of it's community, giving it a different perspective and a real family feel. It is part of the Co-operative Education East Multi-Academy Trust. Our schools share a common set of co-operative values and our ethos is to enable Children to be confident, Able to meet future challenges, Responsible members of the community and Effective learners (CARE).  

Governors have an important part to play in helping schools to run effectively. They work as part of a team with the Headteacher and school staff to help provide a happy, safe and thriving learning environment and an excellent education for all the children. This voluntary role can be challenging yet extremely rewarding and is a great way to build on your personal and professional skills. You will be supported in the role through a programme of training and mentoring allowing you to use your insight and experience to the full extent.  

The role:

You will work with the Local Governing Committee (LGC) to develop the school’s vision and priorities, review educational performance and make strategic decisions.  The main functions of a governing board are:

• Ensuring clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction of the school
• Holding executive leaders to account for the educational performance of the organisation and its pupils, and the effective and efficient performance management of staff
• Overseeing the financial performance of the organisation and making sure its money is well spent The role is strategic rather than operational. Trustees do not get involved with the day to day running of the school, instead supporting and challenging the school’s leadership team to drive school improvement. 

The role is strategic rather than operational. Governors do not get involved with the day to day running of the school, instead supporting and challenging the school’s leadership team to drive school improvement.

Who are we looking for?

We need enthusiastic and committed people from a variety of backgrounds who care about supporting the success of the next generation so that they receive the best possible start to their education. You don’t need experience in the education sector and you don’t have to be a parent; just a desire to give back to the community and a proactive approach to becoming involved as a member of a team.

We would be delighted to hear from you if you have:

• A keen interest in improving education for children
• An open and enquiring mind
• The ability to look at issues objectively
• The confidence to ask questions
• A willingness to listen and make informed judgements  

What will it involve?

Governor meetings are held three times a year plus three scheduled school visits per year, focused on school priorities. You may also visit for specific events to understand how the school operates and experience school life. You will receive reports from the headteacher and senior leaders and will need to be able to question, challenge and support decisions.

The role is unpaid, and the term of office is 4 years.

Training and induction will be provided – this includes compulsory training in the first 6 months and further training to develop your role as you become an established member of the committee. 

Being a governor is a commitment and a responsibility but offers you the chance to see first-hand the impact you can make in improving education for young people in your community.

Next steps:

If you feel that you can contribute your skills, experience and most critically your time then please apply now for further information.

We are committed to safeguarding and the welfare of students and staff. The successful candidate will be subject to satisfactory recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check.