Anyone there who's a clerk to school governors?

[Doubletrouble70]

I'm keen to hear from any clerks to school governors - pros and cons of the role, whether you're paid per hour or a flat fee etc. Was it difficult to get your first role without a background in education? I have the skilset they ask for but work in a charity.

Thanks

Yes it helps to have a back ground in education but I don't think it is vital. What is handy is a knowledge of acronyms used in the education and social care sector e.g CLA (Children Looked After) etc as there are quite a few and you will come across them during meetings!

I'm very fortunate to be clerking with a very experienced Chair and Head plus a very understanding body of governors. Some Local Authorities offer training courses before you start.

Have a look at Hertfordshire County Council's website (Hertsdirect.org I think) and the section called Clerks' Network which may be of interest.

Most of the role is collating documents, drafting agendas and taking minutes. It becomes more complicated if you are asked to clerk complaints, exclusion panels or disciplinary panels/hearings as you need a good understanding of the relevant policies etc.

All I can say is that the fixed fee system is working reasonably well for me.
Good Luck
TB

Thanks for these tips. I will do some more research and put in some further applications.