I am delighted to have the opportunity to write a short piece for the website about the role of Governors and the work we do within school. I have been working with the Westfield Governors since October 2016 and became Chair in January 2017.

The principle role of governors is threefold:

1. To ensure the clarity of the vision, ethos and strategic direction of the Academy in line with the ethos and values of the Unity Schools Partnership.
2. To hold the Headteacher and senior leaders to account for education performance of the academy and the outcome for all its pupils.
3. To oversee the financial performance of the academy and making sure its money is well spent.

Prior to Covid-19, governors at Westfield meet for formal Local Governing Board meetings six times a year and also visit the academy in between times to talk to staff and pupils about their learning.

We have also recently formed small and effective working groups which look at specific aspects of school life and make sure that we are fulfilling our statutory obligations. For example, the Resources Working Group makes recommendations to the full governing board on the budget; ensures the school is working within Health and Safety as well as Financial Regulations and is adopting appropriate HR policies and following all personnel guidance.

I have always impressed with what I see when I come into school. There is a very focused and calm atmosphere, the pupils are engaged and readily talk about their work and experiences in school. The staff are welcoming and very enthusiastic about their role and the children.

If you would like to know more about the work of the governing board or are interested in becoming a governor please don’t hesitate to contact me via the school office.

Charley Abbott
Chair of Governors
c.abbott@westfieldprimaryacademy.co.uk