What we do
We find and place volunteers on school and academy governing boards across England and Wales.
Schools do incredible things…
…to educate young people and help them become compassionate and well-rounded citizens. However, they can’t do this job alone.
School governors help to shape school policies and aims, allowing teachers to focus on delivering high-quality educational experiences. Effective governance can positively impact a child’s experience of education.
Over a third of schools in England have one or more vacancies on their governing boards, leaving them without the skills needed to make the right decisions.
How we work with volunteers
Start your governor journey
Apply to become a governor by completing our online form. First, tell us about the skills and expertise you could bring to a school. Then, we’ll assign you a dedicated partnership manager to guide you through the placement process.
We’ll match your skillset to a school in need, so you can be sure you’re having a positive impact and making a difference to children.
Apply to become a governor
Support from your first day
The majority of our volunteers are first-time governors without any previous education experience. Often, this outside perspective can drive effective change in schools. However, we know joining a board can feel daunting. We’ve developed eLearning modules on a number of topics to help you get up to speed on key elements of the role.
We also hold regular webinars so you can continue your learning and have the opportunity to ask questions.
New governors receive exclusive access to guidance and resources. You’ll receive 12 months’ free access to online governor resource and knowledge bank The Key – so you can be confident in your decision making.
See more of our training and support
How we work with schools
We support schools across England and Wales, from maintained schools to large MATs, to find highly skilled governors or trustees for their boards.
Register a vacancy using our online form and specify the skills and attributes you’re looking for. We’ll then find a volunteer that best matches your requirements.
Read how our process works
How we work with our partners
Impact of our work
Governors for Schools was a vital resource for me, effectively filling the gaps on our governing board. They found professional people with the time, skills and expertise I felt the school would benefit from.
Louise Drew, Headteacher at Benthal Primary School
Being a governor gives you a sense of belonging to the community. I’ve been able to challenge my own learning and understanding.
Sally Barrett, governor in Wythenshawe, South Manchester
Our recent impact report found that 9 out of 10 of our volunteers would recommend the role to a friend, while 86% said that they enjoy or love the role.
Governors for Schools is a Company Limited by Guarantee Registered in England No. 3879854 and Registered as a Charity No. 1078330