FAQ’s
HOW CAN I FIND OUT WHAT GOVERNORS HAVE DISCUSSED?
The Governors minutes are posted on the Governors page of the website. You may also ask to see any papers discussed at the meeting. If you want to know more about anything that has been discussed, please contact the Chair of Governors, care of the school.
WHO CAN BE A GOVERNOR?
As Governors are often visiting the school, there are a few restrictions to protect the children, but generally anyone over the age of 18 can be a governor. We have no vacancies at the moment.
The main qualification is an interest in education and an enthusiasm for improving standards in schools. While people with experience are welcome, it is not an essential qualification – there are many training courses available on the roles and responsibilities of governors.
HOW CAN I CONTACT THE GOVERNORS?
If you have any concerns you wish to bring to the attention of the Governors, the easiest way is to speak to one of the parent governors, who are usually around in the playground before or after school. Pope Paul is fortunate in that besides its two parent governors, some of our other governors are also parents who can often be seen in school. There are photographs of all the governors on a notice board in the entrance area to help you to recognise them.
Alternatively you can write to Michael Kelly, Chair of Governors, care of the school. The office will make sure any letters are passed on.
THE GOVERNING BODY
Many parents do not understand the role of the Governing Body. We realise that there needs to be more communication between the Governing Body and parents. This page has been written to help you to understand what we do.
The roles and responsibilities of Governing Bodies are very complicated and are covered by several Education Acts. This is a summary of the main points as they affect Pope Paul school.
WHAT IS A GOVERNING BODY?
The Governing Body is a legally constituted body made up of volunteers with an interest in promoting standards in education. The Governing Body has a range of duties and powers given under the various Education Acts. In broad terms it has the responsibility for “the conduct of the school with a view to promoting high standards of education achievement”.
WHAT DOES THE GOVERNING BODY DO?
The Governing Body has a mainly strategic role in the running of the school. The principal mechanism for doing this is the School Improvement Plan, drawn up by the Governing Body in conjunction with the Head Teacher. It is monitored and reviewed regularly. Particular responsibilities include:
- target setting
- managing the school’s budget
- making sure the curriculum is broad & balanced
- the appointment of staff
- setting a performance management policy for all staff
It also has responsibilities with regard to pupils with Special Educational Needs, determining admissions to the school, and the maintenance of the school buildings.
The Governing Body is also consulted on wider ranging issues such as the services provided by the local authority, workforce remodelling.
HOW DOES THE GOVERNING BODY DO THIS?
The Governing Body meets six times a year, twice in each term. The Head Teacher is responsible for the day to day management of the school, but can consult with the Governing Body. The Governing Body will offer support and constructive advice. The Head Teacher reports back to the Governing Body at every meeting as to how the school is performing and meeting its objectives.
The Governing Body also has a number of Committees which meet as and when necessary between the full meetings. These committees are:
- Resources
- School Improvement
- Pay
- Admissions
The Governing Body also hears appeals concerning admissions, and staff and pupil discipline, and hears complaints against the school if these cannot be resolved by Head Teacher.
