Make a Difference in the Lives of Local Children
School governors play a vital role in shaping the future of Tidcombe Primary School. As a governor, you’ll work alongside school leaders to ensure every child receives the very best education and opportunities.
Governors are often described as having a “eyes on, but hands-off role” – providing strategic direction, support and challenge, rather than becoming involved in the day-to-day running of the school. Find out more about the work of our governing board on the school website:
https://www.tidcombe.devon.sch.uk/about-us/our-governors
Who Can Become a Governor?
You don’t need to work in education to become an effective governor. What matters most is a genuine passion for improving outcomes for children and a commitment to supporting our school community.
Our governing board benefits from a wide range of professional and life experiences. We particularly welcome people with backgrounds in finance, HR, IT, business or education, but these skills are by no means essential.
We are looking for people who can:
- Ask thoughtful questions and provide both support and constructive challenge to school leaders.
- Think strategically and work collaboratively as part of a team.
- Analyse and interpret information and data (helpful, but not essential).
- Bring enthusiasm, fresh perspectives and a commitment to helping children succeed.
No previous educational experience is required, and full training and ongoing support are provided.
What Is the Time Commitment?
The role is designed to fit around work and family commitments.
As a minimum, governors are expected to:
- Attend six governing board meetings each year, held on Wednesday evenings at school from 5.30pm to approximately 7.30pm.
- Read meeting papers in advance to help contribute effectively to discussions.
- Take on a link governor role, which involves meeting with a subject leader once each term. These meetings usually last around an hour during school hours, followed by a short written summary. These meetings can be done over Teams or email as well.
Link roles are allocated according to individual skills, interests and preferences wherever possible.
What Will You Gain?
Becoming a school governor is an incredibly rewarding experience. In return, you will gain:
- Valuable experience of working within the public and not-for-profit sector.
- Opportunities to develop leadership, strategic thinking and governance skills.
- Comprehensive training and support from both the school and the Trust.
- Enhanced professional development – many employers value and actively support governor volunteering.
- The satisfaction of giving something back to your local community and helping shape the future of local children.
What do Tidcombe staff say about working with Governors:
- “Our governors genuinely care about the children, staff and wider school community. Their support and encouragement make a real difference to our small school.”
- “As a member of staff, it’s reassuring to know we have governors who are approachable, supportive and passionate about helping our school thrive.”
- “Our governors take the time to get to know the school and understand what makes it special. They celebrate successes with us and support us through challenges.”
- “The governors are a valued part of our school community. They care deeply about providing the very best opportunities for every child.”
- “Working in a small primary school, you really notice the positive impact governors have. Their commitment, encouragement and support are greatly appreciated by both staff and pupils.”
- “They listen to staff comments as well as the Head and offer a balanced viewpoint.”
By becoming a governor, you can make a lasting difference to the education and life chances of every child at Tidcombe Primary School.