12 February 2026
In celebration of National School Governors Awareness Day, we are highlighting the diverse voices that make our academies thrive. A common misconception is that you need a background in education to be a school governor. In reality, the most effective boards are those that bring together a variety of life experiences to represent the community and the children within it.
We spoke with Charlotte Johnson, one of our Governors at Edlington Victoria Academy, about how her background in the housing sector and her passion for community development led her to take on a rewarding role in governance.
A Desire to Give Back
For Charlotte, the motivation was simple: a desire to contribute. Interestingly, she chose to volunteer at a school other than her own child’s. " I chose to be involved in a school where I felt I could make a difference’," she explains.
Bringing her experience from the housing sector, Charlotte wanted to ensure that a child's opportunities aren't limited by where they live. "It’s about making sure every child counts and that there is someone representing their voice, ensuring they are nurtured and their chances are representative of where they should go, rather than just the area they are in."
The Learning Journey
Many potential governors worry about the learning curve, but Charlotte views entering governance as an essential period of growth. "The first year is learning. You go through a whole school year and see the things that happen at different times. By the second year, you’re seeing a repeat of those things and you really feel like a contributing member with a voice around the table."
At Edlington Victoria Academy, Charlotte has been inspired by the school's "never stop" attitude. Even after achieving great results, the school continues to reinvest and learn, a process she finds incredibly rewarding to support.
What Does Good Governance Look Like?
Charlotte defines governance through the lens of accountability, purpose, and assurance, making the right choices within clear boundaries. acting as a support system for staff to test new ideas, and keeping the individual experience of every child at the centre of every decision.
Your Professional Skills are Transferable
Charlotte’s biggest takeaway for anyone interested in governance is that your "day job" likely provides exactly the skills a school needs. "There are so many transferable skills that you bring from your own work life that are relevant in a school environment," she says.
She also notes that the learning goes both ways: "I learn a lot coming the other way! There are things I see in the school environment, like the speed at which they turn things around, and I think, 'Wow, if we could only work at that speed!'"
Charlotte’s Advice: "Go and Experience It"
If you have ever been curious about governance, Charlotte’s message is clear: Just do it. "Spend the time in the school, spend time with the team, and spend time being introduced to the children you are there to represent. It is really rewarding, and it’s great for your wider knowledge as well."
To explore governor opportunities across Exceed Learning Partnership, please contact our Trust Governance and Policy Administration Officer, at [email protected].