What Others Say

'Having an informed governing body helps me to make the most of my time with the governors and means the school gains so much more from their skills, advice and critical overview'
Mark Brennan, Primary Headteacher, Leeds

'I often wish I knew more about most topics we discuss at our Governor's meetings. Whose responsibility is it? How do we fund it? What questions should I ask? What's the meaning of SEF, SIP and SEN? I know I should do more training but just can't find the time around my family and work life.  E-learning allows me to learn anytime, anywhere and in bitesize sections - perfect!'
John McGrann, Governor, County Armagh

'The involvement of governors in the inspection is desirable. During the initial telephone call to the school, the chair or a nominated member of the governing body should be invited for an interview. Inspectors should use the issues from the SEF, records of the governing body's work etc to investigate how effectively governors hold the school to account and ensure compliance with legal requirements.'
OFSTED, Framework for the Inspection of Schools in England, September 2007

'Whilst not compulsory, all governors, however experienced, need training to improve their effectiveness in the role and to keep abreast of developments that may affect their school and their role as governor.'
GovernorNet

'The DfES will increasingly expect all new governors to take up induction training and all schools to make this a priority when making decisions about training and budgets.'
Teachernet