Governor Information and Duties

Parkside Community School Governors are a body of people made up of representatives from school staff, parents, the local authority and the local community.

Governors’ Information and Duties

At Parkside Community School, our Governing Board plays a vital role in shaping the direction of the school and ensuring that every student receives the best possible education. Governors are volunteers who give their time, skills and expertise to support and challenge the leadership team so that the school continues to thrive. We are very lucky to have such a committed team!

The Role of the Governing Board

The Governing Board is responsible for:

• Setting the vision and ethos of the school, ensuring that our values guide everything we do
• Strategic direction – helping to plan for the future and agreeing priorities for school improvement
• Holding leaders to account for the quality of education, student progress, safeguarding, behaviour and wellbeing
• Overseeing finances – making sure that the school budget is well managed, funding is used effectively, and resources are directed to benefit all students
• Ensuring statutory compliance – checking that the school meets legal duties in areas such as safeguarding, health and safety, admissions and equality

What Governors Do at Parkside

Governors act as a “critical friend” to the school. They support the Headteacher and staff but also ask questions and provide challenge to ensure high standards are maintained. Governors do not get involved in the day-to-day running of the school; instead, they focus on the bigger picture and long-term success.

Commitment to Our Community

Our governors represent parents, staff, and the local community. They bring different skills, knowledge and perspectives to the board and are united in their commitment to helping every child at Parkside achieve their potential.

Transparency and Accountability

Governors meet regularly throughout the year and are accountable to Ofsted, the Embark Federation and, most importantly, the community we serve. Key documents such as minutes, policies and impact reports are available on request.

Meet Our Governors

Chair of Governors – Jean Horton
The Chair leads the Governing Board, ensuring meetings are effective, decisions are clear, and governors work together to support the school’s vision.

Vice-Chair of Governors – Alan Duffy
Supports the Chair and takes a leading role in specific areas such as safeguarding or curriculum oversight.

Headteacher Governor – Andy Kelly
Provides a direct link between the leadership team and the Governing Board, reporting on school performance and priorities.

Parent Governors – Mrs Claire Stanton and Rachel Walker
Represent the views of parents and carers, ensuring that families’ perspectives are heard in decision-making.

Staff Governor – Mr Stuart Bower 
Offers insight into the day-to-day life of the school and ensures staff voices are represented.

Community/Co-opted Governors – John Kelly and Keith Falconer
Bring specialist knowledge and skills from outside the school environment, helping the board to make well-rounded strategic decisions.

You can contact the Governing Board through the school office. We always welcome feedback, questions or interest from those who may wish to become a school governor in the future.