Become a Bishops’ Governor

Vacancies for Bishops’ governors arise regularly as existing governors complete their terms of office. As an Academy school, our governors are charity trustees, and sit on our Trust Board, which we call our Governing Body. We are currently seeking new governors to join the board.

Why become a governor?
Being a governor is a rewarding volunteer role where you can:
✔ Make a real difference to the lives of our students.
✔ Gain valuable board-level experience and leadership skills.
✔ Help shape the future priorities and direction of Bishops’.

Who can apply?
Anyone over 18 can apply, provided they do not have certain financial disqualifications or criminal convictions. You do not need to be a parent to apply, and no prior experience in education is required. A wide range of professional and soft skills—such as teamwork and strategic thinking—are valuable to our board.

Our current vacancies are for governors appointed by the Chester Diocesan Board of Education and the Chester Blue Coat Church of England Educational Foundation. As such, applicants must be worshipping Christians of any denomination. We are committed to increasing the diversity of our board and especially welcome applications from underrepresented groups.

What does the role involve?
New governors will join either the Students Committee (overseeing achievement, curriculum, SEND, and pastoral provision) or the Resources Committee (overseeing finance, staffing, and premises). You don’t need specific expertise—just the ability to question, think creatively, and contribute constructively. Previous governance experience (in any sector) is desirable but not essential.

Commitment & Expectations

✔ Attend approximately 11 meetings per year (Mondays, 4:30 pm – 6:30 pm).
✔ Prepare by reading paperwork and engaging in discussions.
✔ Participate in occasional panels (e.g., discipline, complaints, staff recruitment).
✔ Complete ongoing training, including safeguarding training.

How to Apply

To apply, email the Clerk to the Governors at clerk@bishopschester.co.uk with the following details:

  • Your name and date of birth.
  • A brief statement (150-300 words) outlining your relevant skills, experience, and why you would like to become a governor. This should address:
    • Worshipping Christian status (essential)
    • Understanding of the governor role (essential)
    • Commitment to meetings and training (essential)
    • Experience of governance (desirable)
    • Experience (desirable) or willingness to learn (essential) about the work of either the Students or Resources Committee.

If you have any questions or would like an informal chat about the role, please contact the Clerk to the Governors at clerk@bishopschester.co.uk.

🔹 Watch this video to learn more: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mRqJ_bFipHk