Key Responsibilities:

As a School Governor at Fort Royal, you’ll play a crucial role in supporting the school’s leadership to achieve its vision and strategic goals. Working closely with the headteacher and senior leaders, you’ll help ensure that our students thrive academically and personally.

• Strategic Leadership: Shape the school’s vision and direction collaboratively with the leadership team.
• Performance Oversight: Hold the headteacher accountable for the school’s educational and operational performance.
• Financial Management: Support financial decision-making and advocate for resources to meet the school’s needs.
• Specialist Input: Share your expertise in areas like education, disability, finance, communications, or legal matters to strengthen governance.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Act as an ambassador for the school in liaising with local authorities and other partners.
• Staff Oversight: Contribute to pay reviews and performance appraisals to ensure the school’s goals align with staff objectives.

Who We’re Looking For

We welcome individuals from all backgrounds with a genuine passion for making a difference. Ideal candidates will have one or more of the following skills:

• Education & Disability: Experience in the education or disability sector, including schools, charities, or local/national bodies.
• Finance & Strategy: Expertise in financial planning, budget management, or funding advocacy.
• Communications & Marketing: Strong communication skills, particularly in representing the school to local authorities and government.
• Legal & Governance Knowledge: Understanding of legal frameworks in education, especially relating to special needs.

Your Commitment

Governors are expected to attend:

• 7 meetings per year: A mix of in-person and online, lasting about 2 hours each.
• 1 annual strategy day to focus on long-term planning.
• Occasional school visits (1-2 per term) to connect with staff and students.

Preparation for meetings involves reading papers and considering questions for the senior leadership team. Training in school governance is provided, and ongoing development is supported.