Could you be a school governor? Find out what it takes and how you could support schools in Portsmouth
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Volunteering to be a school governor will make a life-changing difference to local children.
That’s the message of Thinking Schools Academy Trust who are calling on the Portsmouth community from all walks of life to step forward and volunteer as a school governor.
A volunteer school governor is a vital but often overlooked role within the education sector.
In every school, governors help guide strategic decisions, support school leaders, and ensure pupils get the very best opportunities to thrive.
Their work happens mostly behind the scenes, but the impact of being a volunteer school governor is felt in every classroom.
From shaping curriculum priorities and overseeing budgets to championing pupil wellbeing and inclusion, school governors are instrumental in ensuring our schools deliver not just good results, but great environments in which young people can grow.
Why become a governor?
Kelly Denton, Head of Governance at Thinking Schools Academy Trust, believes this is one of the most rewarding roles someone can take on.
“Governors bring a vital blend of passion, skills and local knowledge,” she says. “They challenge our leaders to be their best, champion pupil-led ideas, and ensure we always have children’s interests at our heart. I’ve seen first-hand how their commitment helps transform school priorities and uplift whole communities, so we are looking for more people from across Portsmouth to get in touch and volunteer today.”
Kelly adds that the value governors bring goes far beyond the school gates.
Becoming a governor isn’t just about supporting a school, it’s about shaping a better future for our young people and the city as a whole.
“It’s a chance to have your voice heard, share your expertise, and learn something new along the way. Whether you’re an experienced professional, someone that’s retired and has time to give back, a parent, or someone simply looking to make a difference, your perspective could be exactly what a local school needs.”
Anyone interested in being a school governor does not need a background in education, just a belief in the importance of learning and giving young people the best start in life, the confidence to ask questions in a supportive and challenging way, and have willingness to give their time to the pupils and school.
Rewarding experience
A volunteer school governor at Thinking Schools Academy Trust said: “When I first became a governor, I didn’t know what to expect. I wasn’t a teacher, and I wasn’t sure if I’d have anything valuable to offer.”
But I quickly realised that what schools really need is people who care, people who are willing to listen, ask questions, and bring a different perspective to the table.
“Over time, I’ve seen how much of a difference we can make just by showing up and being thoughtful. From helping shape mental health initiatives to supporting school improvement plans, the role is incredibly varied and rewarding.
“What’s surprised me most is how much I’ve gained personally. I’ve developed confidence, built connections across the city, and found a real sense of purpose. Being a governor means you get to be part of something bigger. It’s about investing in the next generation and knowing that, in some small way, you’re helping to build a future where every child can succeed.”
Open invitation
With places available now across primary and secondary schools in Portsmouth, this is an open invitation for local people to make a difference.
Whether you’ve got an hour a week or a few days a term, your contribution could help shape the future of education in our city. And with full training and guidance provided, no one goes it alone.
To find out more about becoming a school governor and the difference you could make, email [email protected] and reference this article. Find out more about the trust and the schools here