A campaign has been launched by the Department of Education and the Education Authority to encourage applications for the role of school governor.

School governors play an important role in the management of a school, alongside the Principal and school staff.

Education Permanent Secretary Dr Mark Browne said:

"Becoming a school governor is a fantastic opportunity to promote the education of children and young people and contribute to your local community. Posts are available in controlled and maintained schools across Northern Ireland and I would encourage anyone with an interest to apply.

"You do not need to be an educational expert or be a parent to serve as a governor. You will need to have the desire to ensure children get the best possible education and bring qualities such as enthusiasm, commitment and the ability to work in a team.

"We are looking for volunteers from across the country to become school governors and make a positive difference in the lives of our young people in local schools."

Sara Long, Chief Executive of the Education Authority said:

"School governors play a vital role in the successful management of schools. Working together with school leaders, they set the vision, ethos and strategic direction of the school. They can bring experience from other walks of life and make an important contribution using qualities such as empathy and good judgement.

"Governors focus on making a genuine difference to the outcomes of children and young people in their schools."

Eve Bremner, Chief Executive of the Council for Catholic Maintained Schools said:

"Being a school governor is a rewarding role and governors provide essential leadership and support to schools and pupils.  Boards of governors benefit from having people from a wide range of backgrounds, so I would encourage people to apply and become part of our network of schools."

Successful applicants will be expected to take up the post for a four-year term of office from 2024 - 2028.

The Department and the Education Authority encourages applications from all sections of the community and previous experience, or formal qualifications are not required. Anyone aged 18 or over can volunteer to become a school governor.

If you are interested in applying to become a school governor, you can find further information at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/articles/school-governor-appointments or  https://www.eani.org.uk/school-governance