What do Governors do?

Every school has a governing body, which sets the strategic framework for the school in partnership with the headteacher. This includes setting the overall objectives and monitoring progress. The governing body works with the headteacher who is responsible for the day-to-day running of the school, including the management of the staff.

Governors work with the headteacher to:

• decide staffing levels
• encourage good relations with parents and the local community
• decide how the school should spend its budget
• maintain and improve the school buildings
• make sure the national curriculum is provided
• decide certain school policies e.g. School Discipline Policy
• ensure higher standards and schools progress

The foundation governors of a church school also have to ensure that the schools' distinctive character is maintained.

Governors support their school, acting as 'ambassadors', mediators and 'critical friends'. They also provide a link between the LA, the school and the community.