Meet Aaron

Aaron has a keen interest in education. He is a father of two daughters and works in a secondary school as an IT Network Manager.

Why did you become a school governor?

I first became a staff governor when working in a Junior School. I really enjoyed getting to know how the school operated and what challenges schools faced. After leaving that role I wanted to continue with governance and applied for a co-opted governor post on the board of the school where my eldest daughter was about to start.

I wanted to help the school with my experience of working in education and to help build the relationship with the secondary school it feeds into.

Did you have any concerns about applying for a governor role?

I was worried that I did not know enough to make an impact but after I met with the then Chair and discussed the role, I realised how I could contribute to the work of the board.

Which key skills and knowledge do you bring to your board?

Due to working in schools and working closely with the administration and finance team, I have built up a strong understanding of school finance. Also, with my IT background I am used to analysing data and finding discrepancies.

What skills have you gained since becoming a school governor which have been useful in other areas of your life?

I have learned a lot since becoming a governor. I am now able to manage a board and keep discussions on track to ensure that relevant business is discussed. This helps me when dealing with personal management and enables me to offer advice to school leaders in my professional life.

I have also been involved in a headteacher and deputy headteacher recruitment process, which has helped me to become a more effective interviewer.

What do you most enjoy about being a school governor?

I enjoy meeting as a team and discussing school business and getting to know the school and the staff so that they know who the governors are.

What has been your greatest achievement as a governor?

There was an issue when I started, where parents were taking up lots of staff time at the door in the morning. This prevented staff from starting the school day with the children on time and some discussions were also inappropriate to be having in front of the children.

Governors and leaders introduced a communication process which gives parents clarity about who to contact should they need to speak with the school. This helps staff to advise parents through appropriate discussions and at a time that is beneficial for all. The new system has been a successful initiative for both parents and staff.

How have you made a positive difference to the provision and outcomes of the children in your school?

I’ve helped build the financial strength of the school and ensuring the money is well spent. The board’s recruitment of the headteacher has also had a positive impact on the school, following some challenging years.

Why should somebody become a school governor?

No matter what skills you possess, a governing board near you will benefit from your perspective. This is a role that does require an investment of time; however, it is very rewarding when you see your suggestions contribute to a school’s strategic planning.

Just asking a simple question can lead to discussions that produce great ideas that help to secure better outcomes for the children.