Governor - Volunteer

Phoenix Community Primary School, Ashford

• Ref:KCC886-3893-138S
• Posted:26/09/2025
• Pay:Voluntary
• Start Date:Immediate
• App Close Date:30/11/2025 at 12:00
• Interviews:Visits Required

Advert

Would you like to make a real difference for children and join us in shaping the future?

Are you over 18, enthusiastic about education, and ready to make a positive impact in our local schools? We’re welcoming applications from committed and reflective individuals to join Phoenix Community Primary School Governing Board.

Why us? Why now?

We’re all proud of our Phoenix’s vision and values which link into those of the CARE Foundation Trust of which we are a part.  Serving as a governor offers you the chance to foster real, strategic change and help set long-term goals.   We have vacancies in areas such as leadership, education, HR, information technology and marketing.  We welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds, including those under‑represented in school leadership. 

There is no need to be a parent, teacher or education expert as training in governance and how to use your skills will be provided.

Your role in strategic leadership

As a governor you will:

• Set the vision, ethos, and strategic direction of the school
• Hold senior leadership to account for pupil progress, staff performance, and overall quality
• Oversee the use of resources, including the budget and school premises
• Join committees such as Resources and support Appeal or Disciplinary panels

 Time commitment

• Attend at least three full board meetings per year (most boards meet 4–6 times a year)
• You may be required to sit on sub‑committees or contribute to specific projects which can add to the time spent on school governance
• In addition to attending board and committee meetings, expect to spend a few hours a month reading documentation and attending school visits.

 What we’re looking for

• Over 18 years old: This is the primary requirement. 
• No specific educational background needed.
• You don’t need to be a parent.
• There is no need to have a senior role at work: Governors come from all walks of life. 
• We ask that you have the Commitment and Willingness to learn: The most important qualities are a desire to improve the school and the ability to dedicate time to training and meetings. Training is available to help governors develop the skills they need. 
• Diverse backgrounds: Governing bodies benefit from having governors with a range of skills and experiences. 
• Reflect the local community: Schools often seek to have governors who represent the diversity of their community. 

 What skills are helpful:

• Soft skills: Collaboration, communication, leadership, negotiation and analytical skills are valuable. 
• Specific skills  include HR, legal expertise, an understanding of the curriculum, information technology and marketing.

How to apply

Please read the additional information documents and visit our school website www.phoenix-primary.kent.sch.uk  and if you feel this is something for you then please contact the School Business Manager, Diane Hall via email: dhall@phoenix-primary.kent.sch.uk.  We will get back to you for a short chat and to arrange your visit to the school.

Information about the school

Phoenix Community Primary School is a one-form entry school situated on the outskirts of Ashford. We benefit from extensive grounds and a well set out modern building. The school is well resourced and, as such, is able to provide opportunities for children significantly beyond that of the National Curriculum. At Phoenix we pride ourselves in being a welcoming and safe environment for all of our community: pupils, parents, wider family, staff and visitors as well as a school that is committed to the safeguarding and welfare of its pupils. The majority of visitors comment on the warm, friendly atmosphere and the attractive environment.

As a member of the CARE Foundation Trust, we work closely with nine other primary schools in our local area. The school places a high emphasis on the Creative Arts. We have our own Music Studio where all children have weekly lessons with specialist music teachers and where subsidised instrument lessons are offered to pupils.

The school invests heavily in technology utilising iPads and desktops in our curriculum, which are used on a daily basis. Each classroom is fitted with a Clever Touch interactive board. Pupils also receive specialist sports teaching and our school supports the emotional well-being of pupils with structured pastoral provision.

The school has an extremely active Parent Teacher Association who support the school and its pupils across the year.

Within our school grounds, we assist our wider community with access to the Ashford Family Hub, the local Kent maintained library and a privately owned nursery which is not affiliated to the school.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our children. You are advised that this post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and therefore this post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Application to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

Please be aware that schools are also required to undertake online recruitment checks on shortlisted candidates under Keeping Children Safe in Education. .

Job Contact Information

• Name:Diane Hall
• Address:Belmont Road, Ashford, Kent, TN24 9LS
• Telephone: 01233622510
• Email: dhall@phoenix-primary.kent.sch.uk

Documents

Below are documents that have been added to this vacancy.

• Detailed Advertisement
• Volunteer Governor Responsibilities