Introduction
Education in schools has changed dramatically in the last two decades. These changes have transformed the role and work of governing bodies. They now have key responsibilities for setting their school’s aims and policies, deciding how money will be spent, managing the employment of staff, and the maintenance and development of the premises. Most important of all, they have an important role in the main purpose of their school – ensuring that its pupils receive the best possible education.
Effective governing bodies work in close partnership with the headteacher in making decisions. The head, not the governing body, is responsible for the day-today leadership and management of the school. The responsibilities of the governing body are defined in law. They are predominantly strategic and include:
- being accountable for the performance of the school;
- planning the future direction of the school;
- promoting high standards of educational attainment;
- setting targets for pupil achievement;
- taking general responsibility for the conduct of the school;
- managing the school’s budget, including key staffing decisions
Constitution of Governing Board
Under Shillingstone School’s “Instrument of Government” (or constitution) the Governing Board comprises a total of 12 Governors.
Because the School is a Church of England Voluntary Aided School, a majority of these Governors (i.e. seven) must be Foundation Governors – that is to say appointed by the Church’s Diocesan Board of Education, in consultation with Shillingstone’s Parochial Church Council (PCC). One of them, who is ex-officio, is the Rector of the Benefice, or their approved deputy. At least two Foundation Governors must have children in the School at the time they are appointed.
Two Parent Governors are elected by all current parents and carers of children in School.
One Staff Governor is elected by all current members of staff.
One Local Authority Governor is appointed by the Local Authority (Dorset County Council).
And the Headteacher is an ex-officio Governor.
All members of the Governing Board, apart from the two ex-officio Governors, serve a four-year term in office, and can continue for further four-year terms if they wish and if they are re-elected/re-appointed.
The current composition of the Governing Board, including terms of office, is set out separately on the School’s Full Governing Body Membership List.
Local Governing Body Membership List Autumn 2019The Chair of Governors is Mrs Sarah Weedon. If you would like to get in touch with the governors please contact the school office.
Information
Governors Business Interests 2018-2019 FGB minutes 22nd November 2018 FGB minutes Sept 2018 Governors attendance 2017-18 Governors - Terms of OfficeIn this section
