Join Our Governing Body

Type of governor: Parent
Number of vacancies: 2
Term of office: 4years
Time commitment: 10 hours per term
Closing date: 25.09.2026
Parent Vote: 02.10.2026
Start date: 09.10.2026

About the School

Smithy Bridge Primary School is a primary foundation school serving Smithy bridge and surrounding areas.

We are committed to providing an excellent education for all our pupils and to ensuring that every child is supported to achieve their potential. Our governing body plays an important role in setting the strategic direction of the school, holding school leaders to account and ensuring that the school’s resources are used effectively.

About the Role

We are looking to appoint a committed and enthusiastic school governor to join our governing body.

Governors work collectively as part of the governing body and are not responsible for the day-to-day management of the school. The role involves providing strategic leadership and accountability, working constructively with the Headteacher and senior leaders, and helping the school to continually improve.

The successful candidate will contribute to the governing body's work in areas such as:

• Setting the school’s vision, ethos and strategic direction.

• Monitoring educational standards and pupil outcomes.

• Holding school leaders to account for school improvement.

• Ensuring effective use of the school’s finances and resources.

• Promoting safeguarding and the welfare of pupils.

• Supporting equality, inclusion and the needs of all pupils.

• Monitoring the school’s policies and statutory responsibilities.

• Participating in governing body and committee meetings.

• Visiting the school where appropriate and developing an understanding of its work.

• Contributing to discussions and decision-making as a member of the governing body.

What We Are Looking For

You do not need to have previous experience as a governor. We welcome applications from people who are enthusiastic about education and want to make a positive contribution to our school and local community.

We are particularly interested in candidates who can bring skills, experience or knowledge in one or more of the following areas:

• Finance and budgeting

• Education or school improvement

• Safeguarding

• Special educational needs and disabilities (SEND)

• HR and employment

• Legal or compliance matters

• Data analysis

• Digital technology / IT

• Premises, estates or health and safety

• Community engagement

• Equality, diversity and inclusion

• Marketing, communications or public relations

• Fundraising or business experience

Above all, we are looking for someone who:

• Is committed to improving outcomes for children and young people.

• Can work effectively as part of a team.

• Is willing to ask questions, listen and constructively challenge.

• Can consider evidence and make objective decisions.

• Can maintain confidentiality.

• Is able to commit the necessary time to the role.

• Supports the school's values and ethos.

Time Commitment

Governors should expect to attend a number of meetings throughout the year.

There may also be opportunities to attend training, school events and visits to the school.

The overall time commitment is approximately 10 hours per term, although this may vary depending on the governor's responsibilities and committee membership.

Governor training and development opportunities will be provided.

Eligibility and Checks

Appointment is subject to the relevant eligibility requirements and statutory checks applicable to school governors.

The successful candidate will be required to complete the appropriate Declaration of Eligibility and Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) checks, where required.

Governors must comply with the governing body's code of conduct, including requirements relating to confidentiality and declaration of interests.

What We Can Offer

As a governor, you will have the opportunity to:

• Make a meaningful contribution to children's education.

• Support the strategic development of our school.

• Work alongside governors, school leaders, staff, parents and the wider community.

• Develop your knowledge and skills through governor training.

• Gain valuable experience in strategic leadership and governance.

How to Apply

If you are interested in becoming a governor, please contact:

Tessa Leigh
School Business Manager
Smithy Bridge Primary School
Email: tleigh@sbs.rochdale.sch.uk
Telephone:01706 378083

Please submit:

1. A brief statement explaining why you are interested in becoming a governor.

2. Details of relevant skills, knowledge or experience you could bring to the governing body.

3. Details of any previous governance, voluntary or community experience, if applicable.

Closing date: 25.09.2026.

Parental Election to select the successful governors: 02.10.2026.

Equality and Inclusion

Smithy Bridge Primary School is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We welcome applications from all sections of our community and are committed to ensuring that our governing body reflects the diversity of the pupils and community we serve.

We encourage applications from individuals who can bring different perspectives, experiences and skills to our governing body.

We look forward to hearing from you.