Appointing staff members as co-opted governors

Be clear on the rules for appointing staff members who aren't 'staff governors' to your board. Consider the pros and cons of co-opting staff members, to make sure you don't miss out on talent and skills.

Last reviewed on 2 September 2024See updates

School types: All•School phases: All•Ref: 4660

Contents

Maintained governing boards can co-opt a staff member as a governor
Consider the pros and cons
What to do if the proportion rises above a third
You can also appoint a staff member as an associate member

Maintained governing boards can co-opt a staff member as a governor

You can appoint as many co-opted governors as you consider necessary and are allowed by your instrument of government.

This means that school staff can be co-opted governors. However, the number of governors who are employed at the school (this includes the staff governor and the headteacher) must not exceed one-third of the total membership of the board.

This is set out in section 5.2 of the maintained schools governance guide.

Find out how to change a governor's category in our other article.

Consider the pros and cons

However, there are also drawbacks to having staff members on your board. Consider the pros and

Maintained governing boards can co-opt a staff member as a governor

Consider the pros and cons

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