When people think about giving their time to a board, it’s usually a charity that comes to mind. But have you ever considered becoming an education governor?
Who can apply to be an education governor?
Education governors come from all backgrounds and sectors. Whether you bring professional skills or lived experience, you can play a valuable role in board decisions.
A passion for education and future generations is essential, but you don’t need direct experience in the sector to make a real difference.
How can you become an education governor?
Becoming an education governor is simpler than you might think. You don’t need prior experience in education, just a commitment to making a difference.
Schools, colleges, and trusts regularly look for people with a range of professional skills and lived experiences. You can find opportunities on local school or college websites, through your local authority, or on national volunteering platforms. Most boards offer support and training to help you get started. They’re actively looking for people from diverse backgrounds who can bring fresh perspectives and lived experience to the table.
Find our latest governor opportunitiesThree reasons to consider becoming an education governor.
There are countless reasons to get involved in education governance, but here are three that stand out.
1. Find purpose by supporting the next generation
Education has shaped all of us, whether we realise it or not.
In recent years, especially after the pandemic, many of us have started to rethink what really matters. We want to do something more meaningful beyond our day jobs. More people are looking for ways to give back to the places and systems that shaped them, and for many, education is high on that list.
I’ve had so many conversations with professionals who’ve had a lightbulb moment. They realise they want to give back by using their time, experience, and perspective to make a difference. For some, it’s a chance to step off the corporate merry-go-round and contribute to something that shaped their own lives, helping the next generation benefit in the same way.
When people think about giving back, their minds often go to charities that helped them, a friend, or a loved one through illness, loss, or tough times. Education rarely gets the same recognition, despite shaping not only who we are, but also our children, grandchildren, and future generations.
Becoming an education governor or trustee is one of the most meaningful ways to give back. You don’t need to be a Chief Executive, a senior leader, or even work in education. Boards are made up of people from all walks of life who use their time and perspective to influence the quality of education and help shape brighter futures.
2. Use your experience to shape education and outcomes
You don’t need to be an education specialist to make a meaningful contribution. What matters is curiosity, commitment, and a belief in the power of education to change lives.
In becoming an education governor, you’ll draw on your professional and personal experience to support and challenge the organisation’s direction. Your questions and insights can help shape decisions that directly affect how students learn, grow, and succeed.
My mantra is “there’s no such thing as a stupid question”. A well-timed question, asked with genuine curiosity, can shift a conversation, spark new thinking, and lead to better outcomes for everyone involved.
3. See the real-world difference governors make
Many of us have strong views about the education system. Becoming a governor is a chance to help shape the experience for learners today and tomorrow.
The role is voluntary, but the impact is real. You’ll be contributing to social change and helping to create better futures for our communities. Every learner, whether a child, young person, or adult, deserves the chance to grow, gain skills and thrive.
And it’s not just about the meetings. Governors and trustees often visit schools or colleges, talk to staff and students, and attend celebrations like awards ceremonies and performances. That’s when the difference you’re making really comes to life!
Governance boards should reflect the communities they serve. People with different backgrounds, perspectives and lived experiences are essential. Real representation leads to better decisions, stronger outcomes, and a governance culture that truly serves all learners. Everyone has something valuable to bring to the table.
Becoming an education governor is an opportunity to use your experience to shape something bigger than yourself and give back in a way that’s personal, practical and powerful.
Sarah Atkins-Boal is our Head of Further Education Appointments, specialising in Further Education Executive and Board Appointments. With over 25 years’ experience in the further education sector and executive recruitment, she is passionate about finding the leaders and governors who can make a true impact in the education sector.
