Want to make a meaningful contribution to your local community? Becoming a school governor is a powerful way to give back — helping shape the future of education and supporting young people to thrive.

As part of the University’s widening participation and social responsibility strategy, our award-winning School Governor Initiative (UMSGI) seeks to provide opportunities, training and support for staff across the University to become and succeed as school governors to support local schools in Greater Manchester.

A shortage of suitably skilled volunteers on governing boards is recognised as one of the biggest challenges to schools. Over the years, we’ve worked with dedicated staff from the University to create a network of governors that are making a difference to schools across Greater Manchester.

For over 10 years, UMSGI have recruited hundreds of staff and alumni to make a real difference to their community. Over the past four years, 73 University of Manchester staff members and alumni have become school governors through the partnership. Together, they contribute more than 2,000 volunteer hours annually – equating to over £66,000 worth of support each year. Their efforts help shape the education of more than 15,000 children.

The skills and experience of those who volunteer can be especially valuable to school governing boards – offering strategic insight and supporting schools flourish. The role typically takes 4–7 hours a month and can be done alongside your day job.

How our staff can get involved

The University of Manchester and charity Governors for Schools are hosting a free webinar for staff to introduce the role and explain how to get involved:

Tuesday 26 November
5:00–6:00pm
Register here

Take this opportunity to give back and use your expertise where it’s needed most.