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School governors

About governing bodies

How are governing bodies made up?

• Parent governors - elected by other parents at the school;
• Staff governors - including the Headteacher and other school support staff elected by teachers and staff working at the school;
• Local authority governors - appointed by the local authority;
• Community governors - representing the wider community, chosen and appointed by the governing body; and
• Foundation governors at church schools - appointed by the diocesan boards and church authorities.

How do governing bodies work?

A governing body works closely with the head teacher and makes decisions collectively as a team. It conducts most of its business through meetings, making use of relevant information, guidance and advice from the head teacher.Regular attendance at meetings is essential. Most governing bodies have committees that focus on finance, permises, personnel, teaching and learning. You will be expected to join at least one committee.

How long is the term of office?

All governors serve for a four year term but may resign mid-term if they choose.

What do governing bodies do?

The governing body is responsible overall for the conduct of the school and must conduct the school with a view to promoting high standards of achievement. It should fulfil its functions in a mainly strategic way. Broadly speaking governing bodies have responsibilities in the following areas:

• Setting targets for pupil achievement at appropriate key stages in the curriculum;
• Deciding, with the head, how to spend the school's budget;
• Taking decisions on staff pay including setting performance objectives for the headteacher and reviewing them on an annual basis;
• Making sure that the National Curriculum is provided; and
• Appointing the head and deputy, other staff appointments and other personnel related areas such as grievance and discipline.

What support do governors receive?

• Governors are provided with comprehensive support from a range of sources;
• Merton provides a comprehensive training programme and an information and advisory service;
• The Diocesan boards provide specific support, including training and advice, to governing bodies of church schools;
• The Department for Children, Schools & Families send regular updates and information to governing bodies on key legislative changes and general developments in education; and
• Governing bodies are encouraged to make their own arrangements for inducting and supporting governors.

Access our password-protected Online Governor Support website

If you are interested in becoming a school governor in Merton contact:

Governor Services Manager
Tel: 020 8545 3923
Fax: 020 8545 3260
Email: governor.support@merton.gov.uk

Governor Support Service
Children, Schools and Families
Merton Civic Centre
London Road
Morden
SM4 5DX

Or visit the School Governor Recruitment paqe

Find out more about the Governor Support Team