Become a Governor

Governors work with Trust and school leaders to make sure that they keep pupils safe and deliver exceptional education for all. They have a crucial role in:

• Ensuring the strategic direction, vision and ethos of the Trust and schools
• Holding executive leaders within a school to account on various issues
• Overseeing financial performance and ensuring money is well spent across a school
   

• Explore details to provide strategic oversight of key areas and operational procedures. The input of governors helps us to run efficiently and deliver high standards. 
• Help set goals by contributing to the vision, ethos, and strategic direction of the Trust or school. This ensures leaders consistently aim high and identify priorities for improvement.
• Approve documents such as policies and procedures to ensure that the academy’s processes are effective, efficient and fair. Each governor provides a unique perspective that helps ensure all viewpoints and possibilities are covered.
• Attend meetings each half term and commit time to tour the school, meet students, and discuss the academy’s improvement strategies with members of the leadership team.
   

Boards need people with a range of skills and backgrounds to run effectively. School governors bring expertise from their professional lives to the governing board and schools benefit greatly from working with skilled volunteers. This may include, for example, anyone with experience of finance, law, premises management and /or human resources. A school governor with business know-how can transform the running of a school. 

There is an assumption that because of the nature of the role, you must have vast experience in your field. Governing boards, above all however, are looking for the qualities and lived experience school governors can bring. Everybody has meaningful skills, softer skills such as communication, negotiation, and knowledge of your local community are just as valuable as business skills. As such, we encourage you to apply regardless of where you are in your career.  
 

At Prospere, we are committed to equipping our governors with the tools, knowledge, and support they need to succeed in their role. Here's how we ensure you're well-prepared and confident as a governor:

Comprehensive Training: We offer high-quality training programs covering essential topics, ensuring you stay informed and effective.

Regular Engagement: You'll attend half-termly meetings, designed to keep you updated and actively involved in key decision-making processes.

Timely Documentation: We provide all necessary documentation at least five days in advance, giving you ample time to review and prepare for discussions.

School Tours and Informal Conversations: Experience our schools firsthand through regular tours and informal discussions with leadership teams, helping you gain a deeper understanding of the Trust's vision and daily operations.

Mentoring and Coaching: New governors benefit from tailored mentoring and coaching support, ensuring a smooth transition into the role.

Standardised Templates and Reports: We streamline your workload with consistent, user-friendly document templates and report formats, making it easier to focus on governance.

Structured Calendar: We provide a clear, annual schedule of meetings and key events, so you can manage your time effectively and stay ahead of important dates.