School governors are the unsung heroes who ensure our schools are well managed and that students receive the highest quality education. National School Governors’ Awareness Day (NSGAD) is an opportunity to recognise their impact, celebrate their commitment, and highlight the vital role they play in shaping education.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude for their unwavering commitment, passion, and efforts in making our school a better place. Your contributions are truly invaluable.

Stacey Kennedy, a Co-opted Governor at Brooke Weston Academy, shares her inspiring story:

1.Why did you decide to become a governor?

‘I became a governor for the first time when my children were in primary school. I was working full time and felt a little separate from the school that was such a big part of their life. I wanted to understand more about how schools worked and try to show my gratitude to the school community with my time in a way I felt I was skilled to do.’

2.What have you found most rewarding about being a governor?

‘Definitely feeling part of the community, the school community but also wider Corby. I take pride in being a small part to help such a respected establishment in the local area.’

3. How has being a governor impacted you personally or professionally?

‘Professionally, it exposed me to challenges I had not yet encountered in the workplace, I have been able to use some of my experiences as a governor directly in interview questions for promotions. It broadens my experience and makes me a more rounded employee.

Personally, being a governor has helped me settle into the local areas we have moved to over the years. We have had to relocate frequently due to work, being a governor is a great way to join a community, and helped me feel closer to my children understanding the place they spend so much of their time!’

4. What advice would you give to someone considering becoming a governor?

‘Being a governor is not like being part of a PTA, you need to be willing to be a critical friend, someone who is not afraid to challenge, as well as support.’

5. What’s been your proudest moment or greatest achievement as a governor?

‘My proudest moment was being a driving force in the creation of a new after school club for one of the primary schools I was a governor for. The school had been struggling with its external provider, it was an opportunity to increase the revenue stream for the school whilst ensuring an excellent provision for a community that was hugely reliant on it.’