The role of a school governor
The role of a school governor contributes to the work of the governing board, making sure high standards of achievement for all children and young people in the school by:
- setting the school’s vision, ethos, and strategic direction
- holding the headteacher to account for the educational performance of the school and its pupils
- overseeing the financial performance of the school and making sure its money is well spent
The role of the school governor can be demanding, but very rewarding.
You can expect to spend about 10 to 20 days a year, around half a day a week during term-time, on governing duties.
Activities include:
- undertaking training in the role – all Birmingham City Council nominated governors are required to undertake induction training
- attending meetings of the governing body of your school – usually outside of school hours
- reading reports and papers
- keeping up to date with the progress the school is making
- sometimes visiting the school during the school day
All governors must have:
- strong commitment to the role and to improving outcomes for children
- inquisitiveness to question and analyse
- willingness to learn
- good inter-personal skills
- appropriate levels of literacy in English – unless a governing body is prepared to make special arrangements
- sufficient numeracy skills to understand basic data
We also expect all governors serving at maintained schools to:
- abide by the Nolan Principles of Public Office
- adhere to the requirements of Birmingham City Council’s Model Code of Conduct for Governing Boards
Page last updated: 29 April 2026
