Holymead Primary School is looking for Governors who can bring new skills and expertise to the governing body. Ideal candidates should have an enthusiasm to learn and be interested in children's education. Being a school governor is a challenging but hugely rewarding role. It will give you the chance to make a real difference to young people, give something back to your local community and develop your skills in a board-level environment. You will also be joining the largest volunteer force in the country; there are over a quarter of a million volunteers governing state funded schools in England. The three core functions of a Governing Body are:

• Overseeing the financial performance of the school and making sure its money is well spent

• Holding the headteacher to account for the educational performance of the school and its pupils, and the effective and efficient performance management of staff

• Ensure clarity of vision, ethos and strategic direction

The full Governing Body meets six times per year from 16.30-18.30. There are also three committees, which meet six times per year: curriculum, standards and inclusion, health, safety and wellbeing and a finance and staffing committee. Governors will be a member of at least one committee. In addition, Governors have a link role in a specific area which aligns with the strategic aims.

We are looking for individuals who will have a combination of relevant skills, in order to strengthen the collective skills of the current governors. Skills could include:

• Strategic planning

• Public sector or charity governance

• Teamwork and collaborative decision making

• Communication skills

• Performance management

• Data analysis

• Legal skills

• Premises management

• Curriculum and assessment

• Financial planning/management

• Safeguarding

• Special educational needs and disabilities

• Approving and monitoring the implementation of policies

• Understanding of current education policy

• Health and safety

• Premises management

Governors do not need any formal qualifications but must be aged 18 years and over. Previous school governor experience is not essential, and governors will have access to training provided by the Bristol Governor Development Service and resources from The Key. All governors should:

• Be prepared to contribute to discussions and offer challenge and support to the school, but be sensitive to the pressures under which they work

• Have an interest in education and the welfare of children

• Be willing to learn and attend relevant training

• Have good interpersonal, teamwork and communication skills

• Have a respect for confidentiality

• Be committed to equality of opportunity

• Be willing to fulfil their role with energy and enthusiasm and be able to commit to attend governors’ meetings regularly

The school opened in April 2013 following the merger of Holymead Infant School and Holymead Junior School. Holymead Primary School has been rated as Good at its most recent Ofsted inspection. If you feel that you could offer your time, skills and help to make a difference to our schools please consider applying for one of the three vacancies.