Advice for school governor personal statement

[SamoSamo]

Hi there All,

Just a quick one. I'm writing the personal statement for my application for school governor this weekend.

Those of you who have seen a few, particularly those that had supported a successful election of it comes to that, what elements to include? Amy pearls of wisdom?!

I'd be very grateful,

Thanks!!!

Specifically say you have the time, energy and enthusiasm to commit to the role and the training. List any skills you think will be relevant - minute taking, decision making, HR, accounts, team working, self motivation, analytical skills, ability to both support and challenge ...

Minute raking isn’t relevant. Don’t ever volunteer to do that!

Time, energy, commitment to the school, work competencies/transferable skills, willingness to learn and that you would relish the opportunity to be part of a team who are striving to further improve the school. Say you know the school well if you do (x number of children there for example). Offer the skills you have based on what the GB needs. You can ask the Chair if they need certain skills. You might have them!

Don’t say you are going to change everything or be a one topic governor eg SEN or a conduit for complaints. Say you value education for everyone!

Don’t fall into the trap of saying that you will be able to voice the parents’ views. The parent gov is not a parent representative, they are a representative parent. There’s a subtle difference. As a representative parent you are giving your views as a parent, not being a parent rep who collects the opinions of others to feedback.

You certainly don’t need to take minutes! That is not a governors role.

I agree not to mention complaints ir representing parents. You do neither. So keep it to your skills, interest in the school etc. In the end I think parents vote for who they know! As long as that person is moderately competent!