Information for Governors and Volunteers
What is a Governing Body and what do we do?
The general idea behind a Governing Body is about overseeing the success of the school and working in partnership with the Head and teachers to agree priorities and monitor progress towards them. SEJS Governing Body is there to provide constructive support and challenge to the Head and teachers to enable them to do their job to the best of their ability. From a legal perspective, SEJS Governing Body works as a decision-making body with corporate responsibility to work in the best interest of the school.
The overall role of a governing body is a strategic one its key functions are to:
- set the aims and objectives for the school
- set the policies for achieving those aims and objectives
- set the targets for achieving those aims and objectives
- monitor and evaluate the progress the school is making towards achievement of its aims and objectives
- be a source of challenge and support to the Head.
Our Governing Body does not run or manage SEJS – we have no responsibility for the internal organisation or management of the school.
Who can become a Governor?
Almost anyone over 18 years of age can become a governor. There are no particular qualifications or requirements, other than a willingness to give time to the role and a capacity for working with other people. Our school governors are people who genuinely want to make a positive contribution to our children’s education. Time commitments can vary but on average we spend between 10-20 days per year on governing responsibilities – monthly meetings, training, school visits etc.
A Governors term of office is normally 4 years.