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School Governorship: is it worth it?

Laura Hood

Hi all

I have recently seen a few adverts for the opportunity to be a governor of a number of local schools. They often want someone with HR experience. 

I know that this would be tough - they say it would be around a day a month but I am sure it would be much more. However, I would like a place on our Company's board and felt that this would potentially give me a (safer) stomping ground and an opportunity to work strategically, whilst offering my skills which I'm sure would be rewarding.

Does anyone have any insight into this?

Parents
  • Yes and No! Much has already been covered by others. I spent 7 years as a school governor of a local state Primary School - the last 5 as Chair - and have seen many changes. The current climate requires schools to be run as a business and therefore business skills are much sought after by any school. Most are lacking in real strategic skills and these are vital now. I disagree that you need a secondary school; it'll more depend on how the Board is run as to how much frustration you encounter (but frustration will be inevitable, even if mainly due to central government initiatives!) and many schools are part of Academy Trusts which have been grounded in a business model. I would say only take this route if you have a genuine interest in improving education as that is your primary function as a governor, if not it will be very hard work. You may find an independent school has a more business-like Trustee Board. I found it very enjoyable (mostly), challenging (nearly always) and of great benefit to my CV - ultimately it was my time as a governor that led me into the world of HR. As with most voluntary roles; it will consume as much time and energy as you are able to give it...
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  • Yes and No! Much has already been covered by others. I spent 7 years as a school governor of a local state Primary School - the last 5 as Chair - and have seen many changes. The current climate requires schools to be run as a business and therefore business skills are much sought after by any school. Most are lacking in real strategic skills and these are vital now. I disagree that you need a secondary school; it'll more depend on how the Board is run as to how much frustration you encounter (but frustration will be inevitable, even if mainly due to central government initiatives!) and many schools are part of Academy Trusts which have been grounded in a business model. I would say only take this route if you have a genuine interest in improving education as that is your primary function as a governor, if not it will be very hard work. You may find an independent school has a more business-like Trustee Board. I found it very enjoyable (mostly), challenging (nearly always) and of great benefit to my CV - ultimately it was my time as a governor that led me into the world of HR. As with most voluntary roles; it will consume as much time and energy as you are able to give it...
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