Induction of new governors

A short summary of the induction process for a new governor within a governing body.

Further information

Helping new governors

New governors receive a formal letter of appointment and some general information on being a governor (including the NGA trigger pack for new governors) from the governor services team.
 
In addition, your school/governing body should include the following items in your school’s induction procedure:

• A welcome telephone call from the chair of governors and/or headteacher, giving information about the time and date of the next meeting and the contact point for further information;
• The opportunity to meet the Headteacher and to visit the school during the working day;
• The offer of a mentor.  This would ideally be an experienced member of the governing body who would help the new governor in the early stages;
• An introduction of the new governor at the first formal meeting and support from the chair to help a new governor participate in the business of the meeting;
• Introductory information about the school and the workings of the governing body.

Checklist of information for new governors

• The names of other members of the governing body
• The contact details of the clerk to governors
• Your latest school prospectus
• Your latest school profile
• A calendar of meeting dates for the coming year
• The minutes of your last 3 governing body meetings
• Details of the governing body ‘s working practices (eg committee structures etc)
• Committee membership details
• A copy of the latest DfE “Guide to the Law”
• The Instrument of government for your school
• The latest version of the School improvement plan
• Your most recent OFSTED inspection and action plans
• Information on where to access school policies