As governors, we have individual responsibilities within areas of the school, for example: certain subjects in the curriculum, specific areas of monitoring.

The full Governing Body (FGB) meets twice every term, each meeting lasting two hours. In a typical school term, we expect to spend approximately 6 to 8 hours on our duties.

As governors, we visit the school regularly to provide support and representation at organised events (such as Fridays’ Sharing Assemblies and open mornings for new parents), on an ad-hoc basis to speak to staff, parents and pupils and to monitor the implementation of the School Development Plan (SDP) and the effectiveness of policies.

• Together with the Headteacher, we set the future direction for the school and decide how the school’s budget should be spent.

• As a governing body, we make decisions collectively on matters such as school policies, performance targets and the school’s development plan.

• We help monitor performance and progress and identify improvement strategies.

• We monitor expenditure, ensure value for money is obtained and risks are managed and budgets met.

• We engage with parents and pupils and represent their views.

• We report to parents on the school’s achievements and respond to inspection recommendations

• We hear appeals from pupils and staff, and consider any complaints that may arise.

• We provide the Headteacher with support and advice, drawing on our own knowledge and experience

• We ask searching questions and respect the Headteacher’s position as the professional leader of the school. This role is often called ‘being a critical friend’.