Governors come from all walks of life but share a common interest – Brinkley Grove Primary School.
The governors are responsible for effective strategic management of the school, for the school budget, and for health and safety. They help to set and monitor the school philosophy and policies, which is accomplished through meeting each half-term. Governors do not make day-to-day decisions about the running of the school – this is the role of the Headteacher, supported by the staff.
The Governing Body is made up of representatives of the staff, parents, Local Authority and the community. All are volunteers who give up their time freely to ensure the school is managed effectively and to the benefit of the children.
The Governing Board of Brinkley Grove Primary School does not have committees.
Associate Members do not have voting rights.
Terms of office are 4 years from date of appointment.
Terms of office for the Chair and Vice Chair are 2 years from the date of appointment.
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Have you thought about becoming a School Governor but you’re unsure about how you could fit it around your current commitments? Perhaps you’d like to learn more first or wonder what you could bring to the role. Please contact the school office on 01206 852266.
We recently asked our current Governors some questions to give an insight into the role.
Why did you want to become a governor?
“I wanted to become a governor for two reasons, firstly it supports my personal development of learning strategic planning and management skills and secondly, and more important to me, it is a way I can give back to a place that does so much good for our children and families.”
“I wanted to help support the school, understand it better and be of help wherever possible.”
What do you like about being a governor?
“School is a much more complex system than I imagined! I am enjoying learning about the huge efforts that go into running Brinkley; reading and contributing to discussions around policy; celebrating the school’s successes and spending more time with the staff and children as I go along.”
“Giving something back to a school that has educated three of my children is extremely rewarding. I’ve enjoyed gaining a more in depth knowledge of how schools are run and continue to learn more with the training sessions available. Being self employed can be quite lonely at times so it’s great to be part of a team with a joint interest in improving the lives of children and staff alike.”
How do you manage your personal life/work with the workload of being a governor?
“I work full time and have a child of primary age, so like everyone there’s always a balance needed. Meetings are in the evening which I find easier, and I use flexible lunchtimes to pop into school and do governor visits. I just need to be as organised as possible!”
“I have four children (3 school aged and a toddler at home) and run my own business so being organised is extremely important. Meeting dates are planned well in advanced so this helps us to manage our time as a family. For visits these can also be planned well in advance so I am able to manage my time regarding childcare. I tend to read through documents during nap times and in the evenings – much like my business admin!”
How did you feel joining the team?
“Since joining I have found everyone so welcoming and human. There is a very big support network in place both in the school and through external providers and I am learning so so much and enjoying every minute of it.”
“Everyone was very welcoming. I found it easier to buddy up on occasion with other governors and I used the training offered to help me understand the role. I’m learning as I go and it’s OK to ask as many questions as you need to!”
