Governing body

Our Governors are representatives of the local community, parents, staff and the church. They bring a range of interests, knowledge and skills. They are responsible for overseeing the organisation, curriculum and budget of the school and offering support. The day-to-day running of the school, however, is entrusted to the Headteacher and staff.

The GB (Governing Body) plays a crucial part in improving and developing the school and in helping every student to achieve their potential. The three key roles for Governors are:

  • to provide the strategic overview
  • to act as a critical friend
  • to be accountable

The GB is a corporate entity and acts as a group.

How is the GB organised?

The GB consists of 15 appointed and elected Governors:

  • 3 Foundation (Church) Governors;
  • 3 Staff Governors;
  • 5 Parent Governors;
  • 3 Community Governors;
  • 1 Representative (local authority) Governor.

Parent Governors are often in the playground at the beginning and end of the school day and are always happy to talk to other parents about aspects of school policy. For easy identification, photographs of all Governors are also displayed on the notice-board next to the office.

The full GB meets every half term; all parents and staff are welcome to attend and observe the first part of these meetings. To carry out its many duties the GB is divided into smaller Working Parties or Committees. These meet as necessary and include:

  • Curriculum and Pastoral Care
  • Finance
  • Staffing and Personnel
  • Site and Health and Safety.

The Curriculum and Pastoral Care committee

This committee provides guidance to the Governing Body and support to the Headteacher on all matters relating to the curriculum and pastoral care.

The Curriculum and Pastoral Care committee, May 2011 (PDF)

The Personnel and Staffing committee

This committee is responsible for assisting the Headteacher to maintain the complete staffing body for St. Aidan’s.

Personnel and Staffing committee, June 2011 (PDF)

The Site and Health & Safety committee

This committee considers matters relating to the school premises and grounds, security and health & safety.

Site and Health & Safety committee, May 2011 (PDF)

Tasks and issues are referred to the Committees for discussion and resolution. They then report back and make recommendations to the full GB. Committees and Working Parties therefore play a key role in the strategic management of the school and joining at least one of them is an essential part of being a school Governor.

Governors are also expected to form a ‘link’ with a specific curricular activity of the school, to which visits are encouraged, to get to know the work of the school better and keep the full GB up-to-date.

How can I join the GB?

The GB welcomes energetic and enthusiastic individuals committed to supporting and developing the school. Being a Governor is interesting and can be highly rewarding. To help you fulfill the role of Governor, there is training and support available from other Governors and through the training sessions run by our LA. If you wish to find out more, speak to one of the current Governors or the Headteacher.

Our governors