Governance at all levels of our trust is very experienced, competent, and highly committed to the mission and aims of our trust, and its individual schools.

The three tiers of governance

Members

These are the most senior tier of governance. They are the guardians of our constitution, have the power to appoint and remove trustees, and meet annually to receive the audit and trust annual report.

Trust Board

Trustees are the tier of governance that holds the most responsibility. They oversee trust strategy, performance, policy, finance, risk and audit, and all aspects of business management. The board meets four times a year.

Local Governing Bodies

Each school has a local governing body that meets four times a year. They are responsible for supporting and challenging the school senior leaders regarding standards such as safeguarding, attendance, behaviour, pupil outcomes, and SEND. 

All governors, trustees and members are unpaid volunteers. They support Mercia Learning Trust in fulfilling our mission and statutory duties.

Hear from our governors and trustees

School governance is a fantastic, rewarding role. As governors, our role is to support and help the staff team to do the very best they can to build on that commitment and delivery excellence for every child. It’s also vital that as governors we make sure the staff and leadership have the resources they need to fulfil their roles.

I would heartily recommend becoming a governor – it’s so worthwhile.

Janet Collins, Chair of Governors

I wanted to get into governance to make a meaningful impact in education and support our local community. It’s rewarding to work alongside dedicated leaders, guiding decisions that truly benefit our schools and children.

Bolawa Karim, Trustee

Having grown up in Sheffield and attended a large comprehensive school myself, I am passionate about ensuring every child has access to the best support and opportunities whilst they are at school, regardless of what their background is.

Richard Crossland, Governor

Interested in governance?

Being a school governor can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience that allows individuals to contribute to their local community and have a positive impact on the education of young people. Some of the benefits of becoming a school governor include:

  1. Making a difference: School governors have the opportunity to shape the direction and policies of a school, and to ensure that resources are used effectively to benefit pupils.
  2. Personal and professional development: Serving as a school governor can be a great way to learn new skills and develop leadership abilities, including training and development opportunities for governors.
  3. Building networks and connections: Being a school governor can provide opportunities to network with other education professionals and build relationships within the local community.
  4. Giving back: School governors have the chance to give back to their community by volunteering their time and expertise to support the education of young people.
  5. Enhancing your CV: Serving as a school governor can be a valuable addition to your CV, demonstrating your commitment to education and community service.

Being part of a governing board can give you experience of working at a strategic level and the opportunity to learn and practice skills that have a direct relevance to employers. These include: strategic leadership, budget control, data analysis, staff recruitment, building relationships and networks, effective team working, communication, problem solving, and influencing/negotiation.

Vacancies for governors and trustees come up periodically in the school year. If you would like to be considered for a role, please email Claire Hogg, Governance Officer, chogg@merciatrust.co.uk

Documentation