As part of Volunteers’ Week on 2–8 June, we’re celebrating those who give their time and expertise to support the life of our schools. Stephen Rayner, Chair of Governors at Ormiston Forge Academy in Sandwell, shares his reflections on what school governance means to him and why it’s been such a privilege and rewarding experience.
Why I got involved
I became a governor at Ormiston Forge Academy when it opened as an academy in 2010, because it serves the community where I was born and raised. Having recently retired from my role as a Senior Lecturer in Educational Leadership at the University of Manchester, I’ve spent most of my life working in and with schools – as a teacher, adviser and researcher. Much of that time was also spent in Sandwell, both in schools and with the local authority and I continue to feel a strong commitment to education in the area.
When Ormiston approached me to take on the role of Chair, I willingly agreed (twice!). Being part of Forge’s journey as it has grown and developed over the years has been both a privilege and a pleasure.
Equally, some of the most impactful governors I’ve worked alongside have come from completely different professional backgrounds – bringing fresh perspectives that schools truly need. That’s the real strength of volunteering in governance: the opportunity for diverse voices to come together, grounded in a shared purpose to improve outcomes for children and young people.
What being a governor involves
There’s a big difference between being a governor and being a Chair. As a governor, you’re a volunteer but that doesn’t mean it’s a light-touch role. You need to engage with the work of the board, attend meetings, and ideally take on a link role to support a key priority area such as safeguarding, literacy or sixth form provision.
As Chair, the responsibilities increase but so does the impact you can have. I support the Principal and leadership team, attend Performance Board meetings, and occasionally handle complaints. What makes the role fulfilling is the sense that governors are genuinely valued. Our Principal, Dr Lisa Mason, is open and honest with us and encourages the wider senior team to engage too. As a result, we’ve developed a strong and productive working relationship.
Moments that matter
There have been many highlights during my time at Forge. I’m proud of how the school has grown to become one of the largest secondaries in both Sandwell and across Ormiston, while continuing to improve standards.
As the lead governor for safeguarding, I also take pride in the systems and culture we’ve developed to keep our students safe and to support their wellbeing. Of course, this work is never finished, but we are deeply committed to doing everything we can.
And then there are the moments of joy – exam results days in August, when students see the fruits of their hard work and thank their teachers. Even as an observer, it’s impossible not to feel a swell of pride.
Why volunteers matter
Governors are not line managers or employees, so they give a unique perspective. We’re able to focus on the student experience, on staff wellbeing, and on how the school connects with the local community. We bring a sense of detachment that allows us to observe, question and support without conflict of interest.
I’ve drawn on my experience as a teacher, a leader and a researcher but governance also needs people with very different backgrounds to mine. We need diversity of thought, life experience and perspective. Schools have made real progress in recruiting staff who reflect the communities they serve; now we need to do the same with governance.
A message for Volunteers’ Week
Volunteers’ Week is a welcome opportunity to recognise the time, energy and passion that so many people offer to strengthen their communities. But more importantly, it’s a chance to encourage others to get involved – especially those who may doubt they have something to offer. Trust me, you do!
Becoming a school governor isn’t a sacrifice – it’s a genuine public service. One description I came across recently captured it perfectly: “Knowing that your efforts contribute to the success and wellbeing of students provides a profound sense of fulfilment. This sense of purpose can be a powerful motivator and a source of personal satisfaction.”
I couldn’t agree more.
There’s also a quote I often return to that sums up my own approach to leadership: “A school teaches in three ways: by what it teaches, by how it teaches, and by the kind of place it is.”
For me, that final element – the kind of place it is – is where leaders and governors can make the biggest difference.
Stephen Rayner is Chair of Governors at Ormiston Forge Academy. He became a governor at the school when it opened as an academy in 2010. Recently retired as a Senior Lecturer in Educational Leadership at the University of Manchester. Has also worked in and with schools, as a teacher, adviser and researcher.