How to become a school governor

Do you have skills and commitment to contribute to raising standards?
Are you interested in education?
Do you have the time to spare to attend meetings, training and events usually in the evening?
Do you want to put something back into the local community?

Governors in Sutton

There are approximately 700 volunteers who are serving as school governors in Sutton schools and academies. Governors, working together in a team, can make a real difference to educational standards. Would you like to play a part in contributing to the education service in Sutton?

Who can be a governor?

Governing bodies are made up of parents, school staff, persons appointed by the Local Authority, the Diocese for church schools and members of the local and wider community. Anyone over the age of 18 can be a governor, subject to some exceptions. Governors come from all walks of life and different backgrounds and possess the skills required to contribute to effective governance and the success of schools. We want our governing bodies to reflect our community and we would encourage people from all sections of the community, especially the ethnic minority communities, to put themselves forward.

Do governors need any formal qualifications?

Governors do not need any formal qualifications - having appropriate relevant skills and experience, an interest in education, a commitment to prepare for and attend meetings, conduct school visits and attend training are as important.

How much time will it take?

The minimum time commitment is 10-15 hours per term. This may vary from school to school so please discuss the level of commitment with the prospective school to ensure you have the time to dedicate to this key role. This includes meetings, background reading, school visits and training.