Given the wide range of responsibilities facing governors, it is unsurprising that GovernorLine has received some calls in relation to concerns over workload...
This is a potentially difficult issue to get hold of and the advisers will initially work with the caller to identify what the exact pressure points are. Progress can only be made if specific issues and difficulties can be identified.
Generally, GovernorLine calls on workload issues tend to arise in relation to particular aspects of the job or when certain incidents occur.
There is a feeling that policy and initiatives have grown in number and the greater emphasis placed on named governors (i.e. those responsible for SEN or Literacy and Numeracy) has led to an increase in work for the whole governing body. Workload pressure tends to be experienced or magnified when the governing body needs to deal with specific issues or incidents - pupil exclusions, significant staff illness, Ofsted inspections, staff appointments and dismissals etc.
Whilst concerns over workload can be an issue for governors, it is important to acknowledge that many governors would see a reduction in workload as a limitation in their responsibility and their role in the school. Callers to the service have overwhelmingly confirmed that governors are genuinely passionate about their school and do not want to act or be seen to act as a rubber stamp.
When GovernorLine receives calls regarding workload, the advisers will initially encourage callers to consider delegation of some responsibilities to other members of the governing body. Often, the lion’s share of the work of the governing body is carried out by the Chair and/or only one or two other governors, with the remaining governors making very little contribution other than attending meetings.
There is no legal requirement for the chair and/or vice-chair to be involved directly in all aspects of governance and most of the responsibilities carried out by the chair, can be shared out amongst other governors or committees.
The most efficient governing bodies agree very clear areas of responsibility and ensure these are matched with individual governors’ specific skills and experience together with the appropriate delegated authority to make effective decisions, rather than expecting all governors to be directly involved in all of the decision making. This can also have the positive effect of reducing the number and length of governor meetings.
Alternatively, consider if it is appropriate to delegate the task to the Head teacher or another member of the leadership team. On larger governing bodies there is usually some slack and many governors will be happy to assume more responsibility for a stretched colleague if they know what is required and when it needs to happen.
If workload issues are affecting the governing body as a whole, the advisers will help and advise where they can but also direct callers to support mechanisms that exist though their Local Authority.
This guidance was updated in August 2009.
Call GovernorLine on 08000 722 181 or you can e-mail us from this site.
