Your local Catholic school needs your help!

In many Catholic schools in dioceses across the country there are vacancies for foundation governors.

Educational institutions are generally governed by a body of representatives, such as parent governors and teacher governors.

The Catholic schools, multi-academy trusts and universities of England and Wales also include foundation governors, or directors, who come from all walks of life and volunteer to ensure the Catholic vision and character of the school is upheld. Appointed on behalf of the Bishop, foundation governors should always form a majority.

Birmingham, Clifton and Leeds diocesan education services have made some informative videos explaining the role, importance of and need for foundation governors:

The main role of a governing body is at a strategic level, holding leadership to account; overseeing financial performance and setting the budget; managing admissions criteria; and being involved in recruiting to the most senior roles.

Being a foundation governor involves attending on average three full governing body meetings per year as well as serving on a committee focusing on issues such as staff pay, or admissions. Free training is provided by the diocese.

Paul Barber, Catholic Education Service Director, said: “As throughout history, Catholics must be prepared to support, promote and defend Catholic education.

“Practising Catholics can make excellent foundation governors, or know someone who might be interested, so please find out about getting involved by contacting your diocese.”  

To find out more about becoming a foundation governor please contact your diocesan education service. If you are interested in becoming a governor at a Catholic university please contact: general@catholiceducation.org.uk