Governor categories in maintained schools

The governing boards of maintained schools must be made up of specific types of governors. Understand what all of the different categories of governors are and the roles they play in school governance.

Last reviewed on 10 August 2022
School types: Maintained, Special · School phases: All
Ref: 4129
Contents
  1. The headteacher
  2. Parent governors
  3. Staff governors
  4. Local authority governors
  5. Co-opted governors
  6. Foundation governors
  7. Partnership schools

If you're looking for information on the constitution of the governing board, see this article

The headteacher The headteacher is automatically a governor because of their position as headteacher – sometimes referred to as an 'ex-officio' governor. Headteachers can resign from the governing board if they choose, but the role can't be filled by any other staff member. The exception is an acting headteacher, but they have to be appointed to substantively carry out the role of headteacher, according to a representative at the DfE. A part-time acting headteacher doesn't qualify. Their role To implement the governing board's strategy in practice, and provide information to the governing board as requested. They'll report to the board at full governing board meetings or committee meetings.  Read more about the headteacher's role