We are here to help
This page brings together diocesan guidance for those involved in governing Church of England schools, academies and trusts across the Diocese of Leeds.
Governance is a vital ministry. We are grateful to all who serve as governors and trustees, and we recognise the responsibility and commitment this role involves in upholding the Christian character and effectiveness of our schools.
Our guidance documents are below. Alongside this guidance, every Church school and trust has a named diocesan adviser who can offer advice, clarification and support. Early conversation is always encouraged, particularly where there is uncertainty or change.
Schools that sign up to the Enhanced Service Plan (ESP) also benefit from bespoke diocesan support, including time with their named adviser, senior leaders' briefings, half-termly governor briefings on key issues, chair of governor networks, and a range of training opportunities available at a reduced rate. You can access all of this through ESP Online.
Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any questions: info.ed@leeds.anglican.org.uk
Diocesan guidance: Key Documents
- Recruiting Foundation Governors
- Ex officio Governor Guidance
- Guidance on Handling Complaints about a Governor
- Guidance on the Removal of Foundation Governors
For maintained schools:
For multi-academy trusts
- The Role of a Member
- The Role of a Foundation Trustee
- Role of a Local Foundation Governor in an Academy
- Appointing or Reappointing Foundation Trustees and Local Foundation Governors
Why not become a school governor or trustee?
You do not need prior experience to volunteer in this way. What matters most is a willingness to serve, to learn and to support the Christian vision and life of the school.
We are always keen to hear from those who feel called to offer their time, skills and insight in this way. Vacancies arise regularly across our schools and academy trusts.
If you are interested in becoming a governor or trustee, we encourage you to begin by speaking with the school, trust, the chair of governors or the local vicar. The diocesan education team can also guide you through the process and the relevant appointment arrangements.
Those who wish to be a foundation governor in a maintained church school must be nominated by the chair of governors, headteacher or local vicar. The nomination for can be found here: Foundation Governor Nomination Form.
Contact us
If you’d like to be a school governor or trustee and would like to know where your nearest school or trust is, or want any further information, please email: info.ed@leeds.anglican.org
To become a foundation governor or trustee in one of our partner multi-academy trusts, please contact the trust directly.