Why Become a Governor?
Becoming a governor within Pontefract Academies Trust is an opportunity to shape the education and experiences of children across our community. Our governors – known as School Performance Review Board (SPRB) representatives, play a vital role in supporting and challenging our schools to deliver excellence for every pupil.
You don’t need to be an education expert. What matters most is your commitment, curiosity, and willingness to help our schools thrive.
“I am grateful to have seen the schools go from strength to strength over the last few years and am so pleased to have been part of that journey”
Amanda Small (SPRB Member and Chair, 2018-2025).
About Governance in Our Trust
Each of our schools is supported by a School Performance Review Board (SPRB). These boards act as sub-committees of our Board of Trustees, focusing on one thing: ensuring every school delivers high standards of education, pupil wellbeing, and community engagement.
SPRBs bring together voices from across the school community: parents, staff, and local people, to provide independent challenge and support to school leaders. They review performance, celebrate success, and ensure our Trust’s vision and values are lived out every day.
For more information regarding our governance structure, please see our Governance page.
What We’re Looking For
We’re looking for people who are:
- Passionate about improving outcomes for children and young people
- Willing to ask thoughtful questions and offer constructive challenge
- Committed to collaboration and teamwork
- Able to give time and energy to support their local schools.
We particularly welcome applicants with skills or experience in areas including:
- Education and safeguarding
- Data analysis
- Community engagement or communications
- Inclusion and SEND
What SPRB Members Do
As an SPRB member, you will:
- Review and discuss school performance data with leaders
- Ensure the school improvement plan is delivering positive outcomes
- Monitor how well pupils are achieving and thriving, including vulnerable groups
- Support effective safeguarding, inclusion, and behaviour practices
- Celebrate the achievements of pupils, staff, and parents
- Strengthen links between the school and the local community
- Promote the Trust’s values and help ensure accountability to stakeholders
How to Get Involved
If you’re interested in joining a School Performance Review Board, we’d love to hear from you.
You can:
- Register your interest online.
- Email clerk@patrust.org.uk to arrange an informal chat with our Lead Governance Officer.
Local Layer of Governance (School Performance Review Board) Audit