Become a Governor of a Special School

Solent Academies Trust is seeking governors for schools across the Trust. The Trust is currently comprised of five special schools, three of which are in Portsmouth, one in Compton, West Sussex and one in Basingstoke, Hampshire. The Trust also has a new special school which is opening in Boorley Green in September 2026.

Solent Academies Trust‘s vision to inspire lifelong learning, perseverance, kindness and growth for all their community through our unwavering belief that ‘it’s got to be possible’. Together we make every day count towards transforming the lives of our children and families by harnessing the opportunities they deserve to thrive as healthy and engaged individuals.

Volunteering as a school governor is a fulfilling and impactful way to contribute to education, particularly for vulnerable pupils in special schools. If you are passionate about education and want to help shape the experiences of young people with special educational needs (SEND), becoming a governor could be the right opportunity for you.

Why Consider Becoming a Governor?

Support Vulnerable Pupils

Special school settings provide tailored education for children who have SEND or who may not thrive in mainstream education settings. Our schools offer an environment designed to meet the specific needs of pupils who require additional support. As a governor, your role would be vital in ensuring that the school can offer the highest standards of education and support, ultimately helping these pupils succeed.

Make a Real Difference
Governors work closely with the school leadership team to set the direction for the school’s future. By becoming a governor, you contribute to decisions that directly affect the pupils' outcomes, from the curriculum to pastoral care. You’ll be helping to create an environment where young people with SEND can flourish, develop their potential, and transition successfully into adult life.

Bring Your Unique Skills
One of the most rewarding aspects of being a school governor is that it’s a role that can benefit from a wide variety of skills. Special and alternative provision schools need governors who bring strategic thinking and operational expertise—regardless of whether you have prior experience working with pupils with SEND. Professionals with backgrounds in business, finance, law, human resources, or education can all contribute skills and experience to the school’s leadership team.

Governance in our schools isn’t about being an expert in special educational needs; it’s about applying your skills in a governance setting to make decisions that will help improve the school’s function and, ultimately, the lives of its pupils.

What Does the Role Involve?

As a governor, your responsibilities will be wide-ranging and impactful. While the exact duties may vary from school to school, here are the main areas you’ll focus on:

Strategic Oversight
Governors are responsible for setting the strategic direction of the school. This means working with the leadership team to ensure that the school has a clear vision, goals, and a plan to improve outcomes for pupils. In special schools, this could involve helping the school develop strategies that address the particular needs of pupils with SEND.
Accountability
As a governor, you will hold the Principal and senior leadership team to account for the school’s performance. This includes monitoring progress toward the school’s goals and ensuring that the leadership team is making effective decisions on behalf of the pupils.
Supporting the School’s Mission
In special schools, governors also act as advocates for the pupils and their needs. You’ll ensure that the school environment is safe, supportive, and conducive to learning for all pupils, providing opportunities for them to thrive. This may involve supporting policies that promote inclusivity and accessibility, and ensuring that the school’s ethos reflects the values of equality and respect.

What Can You Bring to the Role?

Becoming a school governor requires a commitment of time and effort, but the rewards are significant. Governors contribute to meetings, monitor school performance, collaborating with the school leadership team and other leaders and governors from around the Trust. Here’s what you can bring to the role:

Commitment
Governors are expected to dedicate time to attending 6 meetings per year, reading reports, and engaging with the school community. The time commitment can vary, but it’s important that you’re prepared to contribute regularly to the school’s governance.

Professional Experience
Even if you don’t have experience in education or working with SEND, your professional skills can be extremely valuable. Governors with backgrounds in business, finance, law, or human resources can help schools navigate complex challenges and operate efficiently.

Passion for Education
A genuine interest in making a difference in education is essential. Governors who care deeply about the welfare and success of young people are more likely to bring positive energy to the role, championing the needs of pupils and supporting the school’s mission.

Governor Testimonials

Here are some testimonials on what our current governors: