What do our Governors do?
The Governing Body plays an important role in the leadership of Otterburn Primary School & Nursery. Governors work closely with the Headteacher to provide strategic leadership, support and challenge, helping to ensure that every child receives the best possible education.
The Governing Body has three core functions:
- ensuring that the vision, ethos and strategic direction of the school are clearly defined;
- holding the Headteacher to account for the educational performance of the school and its pupils; and
- overseeing the financial performance of the school, making sure that public money is used well.
Governors also have strategic oversight of important areas of school life, including safeguarding, SEND, curriculum, attendance, pupil outcomes, staffing, finance and the wellbeing of pupils and staff.
Governors regularly consider information about the school's performance and priorities, visit the school and meet with staff and leaders. They provide both support and constructive challenge, asking questions and seeking assurance that the school is meeting its statutory responsibilities and continually improving outcomes and opportunities for its pupils.
The Governing Body makes decisions collectively. Individual governors do not have authority to act independently on behalf of the Governing Body unless specific responsibilities have been formally delegated to them.
The Headteacher is responsible for the day to day leadership and management of the school, while the Governing Body maintains strategic oversight and holds the Headteacher to account.
Who can become a Governor?
Our Governing Body brings together people with a range of skills, knowledge, experience and perspectives who share a commitment to the success of Otterburn Primary School & Nursery.
Different categories of governor may include:
- Parent Governors
- Staff Governors
- Local Authority Governors
- Co-opted Governors
- the Headteacher
Governors are appointed or elected in accordance with the school's Instrument of Government.
Being a governor is a rewarding opportunity to contribute to the education of children in our community. Governors do not need to be education experts; what matters is a willingness to learn, contribute, ask constructive questions and commit the time needed to fulfil the role effectively.
If you are interested in becoming a governor at Otterburn Primary School & Nursery, please contact the school office for further information.