As mentioned towards the end of last year we will shortly be recruiting two new parent governors. Governors have a strategic role in running the school and are there to support and challenge the school leadership to get the best for all our children. The role is important and does require some commitment to attend evening meetings and to be available to visit school occasionally.

If you would like to know more about the role myself and our Chair of Governors will be available next Wednesday morning at 9.00am to answer questions and to pass on an application form. For anyone interested in the role but not able to make the Wednesday morning session please email hollinsgrundy@bury.gov.uk for a copy of the application form.

Governing boards meet regularly to look at the big picture and the school’s long-term goals. They set the culture and values of the school, responding to opportunities and challenges. Governors and trustees work closely with the headteacher, supporting them and challenging them.

They are responsible for:

• developing a vision and strategy for the school
• overseeing the financial performance of the school and making sure its money is well spent
• holding the school leader to account to ensure that every pupil has the best possible education
• engaging with pupils, staff, parents and the school community to understand their views

Activities can include:

• attending governing board meetings: these normally take place around six times a year and may be held outside school hours
• looking at information and evidence on the school’s progress and discussing with school leaders
• visiting the school to see plans working in practice, and listening to the views of staff, pupils and parents
• selecting and appointing a headteacher following the resignation of the current headteacher
• making decisions about issues such as pupil exclusions and staff disciplinary matters
• undertaking induction training and ongoing development