Havering Council has launched a new drive to recruit more school governors.
People with different experiences and from all walks of life are being sought to sit on school boards and get involved in the day-to-day life of the borough’s schools.
Lorraine Earle has been a school governor for 15 years and is chair of governors for The Aspire Learning Federation, which governs both Elm Park Primary and RJ Mitchell Primary Schools in Hornchurch.
The schools are run separately but able to share their expertise.
She said: "I began my governance journey as a parent-governor when my child entered reception at Elm Park Primary School.
"At that point, I had little understanding of what the role entailed - my only frame of reference for school life was my own experience as a primary school pupil."
Lorraine comes from a financial background and with the breadth of training available, covering all elements of school governance including wellbeing, special educational needs and other key areas.
She has developed additional skills that strengthen her contribution as a governor.
In 2014, she became chair of governors for Elm Park Primary School which joined forces with RJ Mitchell Primary School in 2022.
“I do love it. My husband thinks this is my job. It is interesting to see the children developing and getting the best outcomes for them.
"Governance requires considerable time and dedication but is very rewarding - the more actively you participate, the more visible the benefits become - both for the school and for your own development as a governor.
“There are plenty of opportunities to upskill and to gain more knowledge,” she said.
School governors deal with everything from complaints and exclusions to finances and the performance of the staff, so people with different skills are important.
Councillor Oscar Ford, Cabinet Member for Children and Young People, said:
“To be a school governor, you need to be committed and open to a challenge.
"Beyond this and the paperwork to read, governors are able to contribute fully to school life and in return they will find the role both rewarding and fulfilling.”
To find out more about becoming a school governor in a Havering school contact Havering Governor Services Manager or call 01708 433879.
If you are interested in exploring governance or any volunteering role, contact the Havering Volunteer Centre