Getting to grips with the role

Commentary

All new governors must attend mandatory training on induction and understanding school data, which is provided by your Local Authority or Regional Consortium.   This training must be completed within 12 months of being appointed or elected.  This will give you more of an understanding of the governor role.   Here are the links to the guidance on the training:

• Induction – https://gov.wales/induction-training-school-governors-guidance
• Understanding school data – https://gov.wales/training-school-governors-understanding-school-data

Online training is also available in some areas, as well as lots of other governor training to help you with your role and responsibilities.

Does your governing body assign a mentor governor for new governors?  This is excellent practice and can help new governors feel more at ease, and give them confidence to contribute effectively at meetings.  Have a look at Governors Cymru Services model job description for a mentor governor.

http://governors.cymru/mentorgovernor/

So,  in order for new governors to get up to speed with what is happening at the school and what the priorities are, it is helpful for the school to prepare “an information pack”, which includes a copy of the School Development Plan, the latest Annual Report to Parents, governing body minutes, list of governors etc.  Have a look here for a full list of documents that may help new governors:

http://governors.cymru/publications/2018/08/29/information-new-governors/

Many governing bodies will arrange a welcome meeting with the Headteacher, the Chair and the new governor.  This is a useful way to get to know more about the school and the governing body from the very beginning.

Governors Cymru Services also has a handbook for governors which includes everything you need to know about being a governor, such as what is expected of a governor, the three main roles of the governing body, what happens at meetings and much more:

http://governors.cymru/handbook/

Your Local Authority will also have a range of information and support that you can use too.

Being a governor can be a very rewarding experience – enjoy it!  There is lots of useful support and advice available to help you on your journey.