Giving Back, Looking Forward: Why Becoming a School Governor Matters

Every school tells a story — not just through its students, but through the people who dedicate their time, experience, and compassion to help it flourish. Among them are the governors: quiet architects of opportunity, champions of inclusion, and guardians of a school’s vision for the future.

Serving as a governor is a deeply rewarding way to make a lasting difference. Whether you are a professional, a parent, or a community member, your skills and perspective can help shape the next generation’s educational journey.

Here are three compelling reasons to consider becoming a school governor:

You help shape young futures

Governors influence decisions that directly impact pupils’ lives — from curriculum priorities to wellbeing and inclusion. It’s an opportunity to turn passion into progress.

You strengthen your community

Schools thrive when their leadership reflects the communities they serve. Governors who bring diverse lived experiences ensure decisions are inclusive, fair, and forward-looking.

You grow as you give

The role offers immense personal and professional growth — leadership experience, strategic thinking, teamwork, and insight into education at its most human level.

At the King Edward VI Foundation and Academy Trust, there is a strong aspiration that our governing bodies reflect the diversity and vibrancy of our community — people of all backgrounds, faiths, and professions coming together for a shared purpose: to nurture opportunity and excellence for all.

A Personal Reflection

My own journey began when someone saw potential in me that I hadn’t yet recognised. The Chairman had faith — encouraging me first to become a Foundation Governor, and later an Academy Trust Governor. I also had the privilege of serving as a School Governor at King Edward VI Camp Hill School for Girls in Kings Heath — a role that has been one of the most meaningful chapters of my life.

Over the years, I have witnessed transformation — of students, staff, and of the very spirit of the school. What began as a commitment has become a calling. To mark twenty-five years of service at Camp Hill, I wrote a poem that captures a little of that journey:

“Twenty-Five Years at King Edward Camphill”

Twenty-five years — a tapestry sewn,

With threads of laughter, lessons, and growth all my own.

Four head teachers, each guiding the flame,

And countless dear colleagues who shared in the same.

I’ve seen young faces grow bright with belief,

Watched triumph bloom gently from struggle and grief.

Chairs may have changed, yet the heart has stayed true —

Each day still begins with the hope that we knew.

Three times Ofsted called us outstanding by name,

But it’s love, not inspection, that brought us acclaim.

For greatness lives not in reports on the wall,

But in kindness exchanged in the echoing hall.

I’ve watched as the world and the uniforms changed,

When girls wore their trousers — proud, unrestrained.

A small step for fairness, yet mighty in scope,

A symbol of courage, of progress, of hope.

Through seasons and decades, through laughter and tears,

The spirit of Camphill has deepened with years.

From local applause to the nation’s regard,

Each accolade earned through compassion and hard work.

But the truest reward is not banners or fame,

It’s the sparkle in eyes when they whisper your name.

For twenty-five years, this school’s been my art —

King Edward Camphill, you’ve captured my heart.

After a quarter of a century, I can say with certainty: being a governor is not simply about oversight or policy — it’s about belonging. It’s about helping schools remain places of hope, progress, and joy.

So I ask you — could this be your moment to give back?

Could you bring your voice, your experience, and your heart to help guide a school that serves your community?

If so, perhaps now is the time to take that first step — and discover, as I did, that the most enduring legacies are built through service.