Local Governing Bodies (LGBs) have significant responsibilities delegated to them by the Board of Directors.

The core functions of the Local Governing Body are:

• Ensuring clarity of vision, Catholic ethos and strategic direction
• Holding the executive leaders to account for the educational performance of the school and its pupils, and performance of staff
• Overseeing the financial performance of the organisation and making sure its money is well spent
• Ensuring decisions consider the views and experiences of stakeholders (pupils, parents, staff and the community)
• Maintaining the Catholic vision and character of the school

We don’t expect our governors to be experts when they’re appointed or elected. We know that there is lots to learn, so we have a list of required and recommended training you’ll need to complete to make sure you understand your responsibilities and can do a good job of being a governor.

Foundation Governors

Catholic schools include Foundation Governors, who always form a majority of our Local Governing Bodies. Foundation Governors are appointed by the Archbishop to specifically preserve and develop the Catholic ethos of the school and ensure that his education policy is implemented within the school.

Foundation Governors come from all walks of life, and it is important that our Local Governing Bodies reflect the communities they serve. Each Local Governing Body needs a good mix of skills, knowledge and experience. What Foundation Governors have in common is a deep commitment to serving their local communities and living out their faith in a practical way.

Watch this video to hear from Archbishop Bernard, school leaders, and current governors and directors about how rewarding the role can be: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fadeh5QR9wA

Parent and Staff Governors

Parent Governors are elected by the parents of a school and Staff Governors are elected by staff to work for the Local Governing Body. They are elected to bring a parental or staff perspective to the issues discussed, but not there to speak ‘on behalf’ of the parent or staff body.

Are you interested in becoming a Governor?

Download the Foundation Governor or Parent Governor booklet below to find out more about the role and contact the School Office if you would like to apply.