Become a School Governor and Make a Difference in Early Years Education
Are you passionate about education, child development, and making a meaningful impact in your community?
Becoming a school governor might be the perfect role for you!
As a governor, you will have the opportunity to influence and shape the educational journey of children, support staff, and advocate for effective policies all of which contribute to a thriving school environment.
Here's what you need to know about becoming a school governor and why this role is especially rewarding within the Early Years sector.
What does a school governor do?
School governors work as part of a governing board and play a key role in making strategic decisions and ensuring the school runs effectively.
The responsibilities of governors include:
Shaping the school’s vision, setting priorities and goals that guide long-term planning and daily practices
Monitoring the school’s progress in areas like pupil achievement, teaching standards, and staff wellbeing
Holding senior leaders accountable for meeting targets and ensuring that resources are managed efficiently
Listening to the views of parents, pupils and teachers, and working collaboratively to foster a positive school culture
Why focus on early years?
The early years of a child's education lay the foundation for lifelong learning, social development, and emotional wellbeing.
As an Early Years school governor, you will directly contribute to shaping policies that nurture young learners during their younger years.
Supporting early years development as a governor means:
Helping young children succeed from the very beginning
Developing personal skills like leadership, strategic thinking, and decision-making, which are valuable in any professional context
Connecting with the wider community, meeting like-minded individuals, and contributing to a cause that benefits everyone
Working alongside educators, parents, local authority representatives, and others with a shared passion for education
Who can become a school governor?
Governing boards welcome a range of backgrounds and expertise, and there’s no need to have experience in education.
Whether you’re a community member, business professional, or someone with an interest in child development, your skills and insights can make a meaningful difference.
Being a school governor is a volunteer role, requiring time and dedication to attend meetings and visit the school from time to time
Governors are required to approach their role with a clear, unbiased perspective and make decisions based on evidence and what’s best for children
Training and support are available from the local authority
How to get started/apply
If you’re interested in becoming a school governor for a nursery or primary school, start by reaching out to Birmingham City Council (BCC):
For further guidance and to submit an application: Application for school governors
If you have any questions about applying or the application process, please contact BCC via email: governorrecruitment@birmingham.gov.uk
Browse current vacancies: School Governor Featured Vacancies
Becoming a school governor is a rewarding role and your involvement as a governor can create lasting change.
In Early Years, the work is especially impactful, setting the stage for every child’s journey through school and beyond.
You might find it to be one of the most fulfilling experiences of your life!
Find out more: School and Governor Support