Being a chair of governors is a key role in the leadership and management of schools. It is a role which is demanding, complex and multi-faceted. A well as leader of the board, the chair is at times a confidante, a manager, a critical friend, a cheerleader, an ambassador, an arbitrator, and possibly a mentor and coach. This course is primarily intended for new and aspiring Chairs and Vice Chairs of Governors, and will also appeal to experienced Chairs looking to reflect on their own development or support the developent of aspiring chairs within their board.

To be effective, you need a good understanding of the role and its responsibilities so that your school gains maximum benefit from the work that you do, be able to lead the governing board to ensure that it fulfils its functions well, ensure that the board’s focus is on the strategic and works with effectively with the school leaders.

This course, led by Paul Randall and Anne Sheddick of the Buckinghamshire Association of School Governors both highly experienced Chairs of Governors in Buckinghamshire schools, will provide both statutory guidance and practical advice and examples to support your development. A very useful opportunity for new chairs of governors to understand their role and for established chair to reflect on their future development.

Discussion, debate and networking is an important part of this training session, so please come armed with questions and topics for discussion.

Outcomes

• Develop your knowledge, leadership skills and networks
• Enhance your awareness of your own strengths and areas for development
• Understand how to develop strong working relationships with the board and school leaders that set reasonable expectations