Diocese Launches Drive to Recruit 150 New School Governors

Published on: 22 Apr, 2026
Updated on: 22 Apr, 2026

The Diocese of Guildford has launched a major recruitment campaign to attract 150 new foundation governors to serve across its Church of England schools.

Under the banner “Serve Today, Shape Tomorrow”, the campaign invites people from across Surrey and north Hampshire to play a vital role in supporting local schools and helping shape the lives of children and young people.

The Diocese is responsible for 82 Church of England schools, educating more than 20,000 pupils and offering education rooted in Christian values. Foundation governors are central to this work, helping to guide school leaders, set long-term strategic vision and uphold each school’s Christian character.

The Diocese is particularly keen to attract governors whose backgrounds, experiences and perspectives reflect the diversity of the communities its schools serve.

Working alongside fellow governors and school leaders, foundation governors help set strategic direction, ensure accountability and oversee financial sustainability. While professional skills such as finance, HR, legal expertise or project management are highly valued, commitment, curiosity and a desire to serve the local community are just as important.

Speaking about the campaign, Alex Tear, Director of Education at the Diocese of Guildford, said: “Foundation governors can make a real difference by giving their time and experience to help church schools thrive.

“This a great opportunity to serve your local community and contribute to helping children and young people have the best possible start in life.

“We are looking for people from a broad range of professional and personal backgrounds who want to become more involved in their local school and use their skills in the voluntary sector.”

Rachel Cook, Co-Chair of Governors at Long Ditton Schools Federation, first became a governor when her children’s school asked for volunteers with HR and legal experience. An employment law solicitor, she was keen to give back.

Reflecting on the flexibility of the role, she said: “One advantage of the post-Covid world is that more people work flexibly or from home, making it possible to balance governor responsibilities with the day job.”

Graham Lovelace, Chair of Governors at St Lawrence C of E Junior School, East Molesey, described the role as “immensely rewarding”, adding: “Being a governor gives you real insight into school life and the positive impact it has on both the school and the wider community.”

Successful candidates may be appointed to governing bodies from September 2026. Anyone interested can apply via the Diocese of Guildford website. Parishes and local organisations are also encouraged to support the campaign by sharing recruitment materials within their networks.