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How to get a head start in your new role

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Finally, here are a few practical tips on what you need to do when starting as a new governor

  • Provide the clerk to the governing board with your contact details and information required for Get Information About Schools Database
  • Ensure that you have submitted all the required documents for your registration as a member of the governing board, including your DBS check to the school office within 21 days of appointment.
  • Read and sign the following documents:
  • Complete your Declaration of Interests (ask the clerk about it if you have any questions)
  • Ask the governing board if they have a Governor Skills Audit for you to complete and return.
  • Make sure you have all the governing board meeting dates in your diary and have set aside time to read papers and prepare in advance of meetings.
  • Ask for a copy and familiarise yourself with the school’s safeguarding policy, procedures and arrangements.
  • Complete online safeguarding training and return certificate to the clerk or school office.
  • Arrange a meeting with the headteacher and chair of governors, ask for a tour of the school.

All the best in your new role and thank you once again for committing to support education in Buckinghamshire. 

Please contact schoolgovernance@buckinghamshire.gov.uk if the school improvement team can provide any support or answer any questions to support you in your new role.

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