School Governor

We currently have exciting opportunities for members of our community to join the governing body of Shakespeare Junior School. Shakespeare Junior School values its partnership with the local community, which undoubtedly brings great benefits to the children. One of the most significant ways you can help in promoting this aim is to volunteer to be a governor on our board. The role of school governor is a very rewarding one and it will enable you to meet new people and to work as part of a team. You will gain new knowledge and skills and will be able to bring a valuable perspective to the work of the board. Governors do not need to be parents and neither do they need to be education professionals. They just need to be individuals that have an interest in education, who want to give something back to their communities and who are keen to see future generations thrive. The governing body\'s main tasks are: • to ensure that the school has a clear vision, ethos and strategic direction; • to hold the Headteacher to account for the educational performance of the school and its pupils; and • to oversee the financial performance of the school, making sure its money is well spent. For the children in school, it is important that there are individuals on our boards who have high aspirations for them and who want to support school leaders to ensure they receive excellent education provision, so they are well equipped for their next steps in education and employment. Governing bodies are more effective when they can draw upon a range of skills, knowledge and perspectives – so diversity in membership is highly desirable. We feel sure that there are members of our community who are prepared to take on this important role and to give their time and commitment to helping us to continue to improve the school\'s performance, and to play their part in ensuring that our pupils fulfil their aspirations. If you would like to find out more about this wonderful opportunity, then please do email Emma Woozeer, Co-opted Governor by email on ewoozeer@shakespeare-jun.hants.sch.uk or contact the school office on 02380 618905. Please note, that for the protection of children, all governor appointments are subject to an identity and DBS check.

Skills

All governing boards can benefit from expertise and experience in analysing data, budgeting, driving financial efficiency and performance management of staff and other employment issues. However, relevant skills also include important personal attributes, qualities and capabilities, such as the ability and willingness to learn and develop new skills. The ability to work constructively and collaboratively with others is essential, and willingness to contribute to meetings and ask questions is also vital. All governors should: - be prepared to contribute to discussions and offer challenge and support to the headteacher, but be sensitive to the pressures under which they work - have an interest in education and the welfare of children - be willing to learn and attend relevant training - have good interpersonal, teamwork and communication skills - have a respect for confidentiality - be committed to equality of opportunity - be willing to fulfil their role with energy and enthusiasm and be able to commit to attend governors’ meetings regularly.