Today, the Thinking Schools Academy Trust joins schools nationwide in marking National School Governors’ Awareness Day, recognising the remarkable volunteers who play a vital role in strengthening school leadership and improving outcomes for young people.
Across the trust, almost 200 Trustees and local school governors give their time, expertise, and commitment to provide strategic challenge, oversight and support. Their contribution helps ensure high standards, strong accountability, and a relentless focus on what matters most: the success and wellbeing of our pupils.
At the Thinking Schools Academy Trust, we believe that strong schools are built on strong governance, and as a trust, we are proud to celebrate the dedication and impact of our governors, individuals who guide, challenge and champion our schools every day.
The trust actively supports its governance community through initiatives such as the Chair’s Forum, a regular Governor Newsletter and the annual Governor of the Year Awards, designed to celebrate exemplary volunteer leadership.
As part of this year’s National School Governors’ Awareness Day celebrations, two governors are sharing their insights, highlighting the diverse motivations and experiences that draw people to the role.
Leanne Talbot-Brown – Trust Link Governor, The Victory Academy
Leanne became a governor to “give something back and make a positive difference to young people’s education and life chances.” Having previously worked outside a secondary school environment, she says the role has given her a meaningful new perspective.
The most rewarding aspect for her is seeing the tangible impact of strong decisions on students’ outcomes and knowing she has contributed to shaping a better school.
Leanne also wants to dispel common misconceptions: “You do not need to be an education expert,” she explains. “Fresh perspectives and real‑world experience are just as valuable.”
Her message to potential volunteers is encouraging: “You don’t need to be an expert. Just care about young people and education.”
Despite the importance of the role, Leanne says the time commitment remains manageable: three AGB meetings a year, along with shared link visits.
David Day – Chair, Goodwin Academy
For David, the decision to become a governor was driven by a desire “to help the school improve.” The most fulfilling part of the role, he says, is visiting the school, seeing successful lessons and talking with students.
He also offers a light-hearted “myth-buster”: “Governors do not sit around holding hands and drinking sherry! Governance is serious work focused on impact and accountability.”
His advice for new governors is simple but powerful; “Ask questions. Say what you are thinking.”
The Thinking Schools Academy Trust welcomes applications from people of all professional and community backgrounds, especially those who want to contribute their skills and experience at a strategic level.
Anyone interested in becoming a governor can explore current vacancies here.
For an informal conversation about the role, email: governance@tsatrust.org.uk
To learn more about what school governance involves, readers can see our recent feature with The News here.