Supporting New School Governors
Taking on a governance role is rewarding yet challenging. Whilst it offers the opportunity to make a significant impact on the education of children and young people, it also comes with a range of legal responsibilities. To help new governors succeed, it's essential to provide them with adequate support and guidance.
So, reflecting on my governance experience, here are my top tips to support those new to the role:
Induction and training for governors
Comprehensive induction programs are essential and should cover the governor's role, responsibilities, and expectations. From a safeguarding perspective, all new governors should complete comprehensive training which will support them to devise comprehensive and effective policies, procedures and protocols. Those new to named roles, e.g. named safeguarding governance, should also complete training bespoke to the area to ensure they have comprehensive subject knowledge.
Ongoing training also helps to refresh knowledge and help governors stay updated on relevant education policies, governance best practices, and emerging trends. Mentorship can also be beneficial. Pairing those new to the role with experienced governors can provide valuable guidance and support.
Governance structures
Make sure clear roles and responsibilities are set and understood. This will ensure that each governor understands their specific role and how it contributes to the overall governance of the school.
If setting up sub-committees for specific areas, e.g. finance, health and safety, make sure they are effective. Establishing well-functioning committees can help to delegate tasks and make decision-making more efficient.
Ensure all governors have the means to access information and resources. Providing governors with timely and relevant information, such as school performance data, financial reports, and policy documents and sharing resources like governance guidelines, legal advice, and best practice examples, is crucial. It’s a great idea to set up a governance hub on the school website.
Communication and engagement with governors
Encouraging open communication between governors, staff, and parents will foster a positive and collaborative environment. Providing opportunities for governors to effectively engage with the school community, such as attending school events and meeting with parents, will also enhance their effectiveness in the role.
Wellbeing and support for governors
Consider workload management. Many who take on governance roles will be balancing this voluntary role as well as their responsibilities with their personal and professional lives. So, it is important to have termly plans which set out the agenda for governance workload.
It is also important to consider emotional / wellbeing support. Offering support and guidance to governors, particularly those new to the role, who may be facing challenges or stress.
Diversity and Inclusion
Wherever possible, schools should ensure that the governing body reflects the diversity of the school community. This is hugely beneficial to promote inclusive governance practices and connect with the school community.
Governance Review
Just like any other area of school life, regular audits of governance performance are essential. By regularly reviewing governance structure and practices to areas for improvement will be identified and will improve the efficacy of governance.
So those are a few of my top tips. By providing comprehensive support and guidance, schools can help new governors to be effective and confident in their roles, ultimately benefiting the entire school community.
SSS Learning Safeguarding Director
